The New York City Department of City Planning (DCP) is making a controversial move that has the urban design community in an uproar. In a shocking turn of events, the DCP is effectively dismantling its Urban Design Division (UDD), a pivotal unit with a rich history and significant impact on the city's development.
A Brief History:
The UDD, first established in 1967 by Mayor John Lindsay, was disbanded in 1980 by Mayor Ed Koch. It was later revived in 2007 by Amanda Burden during Mayor Michael Bloomberg's administration, where it played a crucial role in shaping the city's landscape. The division has been instrumental in steering major developments, including the Gowanus, Long Island City, and Jamaica Neighborhood Rezonings, and was behind the creation of the city's first Street Design Manual and the acclaimed Active Design Guidelines.
The Sudden Decision:
On December 17, 2025, DCP executive director Edith Hsu-Chen verbally informed UDD employees that they would be reassigned to different departments. This was followed by an email from DCP commissioner Dan Garodnick on December 18, confirming the decision. The timing of this announcement, just days before the Mamdani administration took office, has raised many eyebrows.
The Plan Unveiled:
Erick Gregory, DCP's Chief Urban Designer and Director of Urban Design, will retain his title, but the UDD itself will cease to exist. Sagi Golan, currently Deputy Director of Urban Design, will be promoted to Senior Urban Design Specialist, serving as a key resource for on-site processes and policy discussions. The remaining UDD staff, approximately 10 people, will be dispersed across various divisions within the agency.
A Lack of Consultation:
What has caused further dismay is the apparent lack of consultation with UDD staff. According to sources, the decision was made without seeking input from those directly affected, leaving many in shock and confusion. New York City planners, architects, and urban designers have expressed bewilderment and resistance, with many professionals frustrated by the lack of transparency.
The Rationale:
Defending the decision, Hsu-Chen characterized it as a natural progression, stating that urban design has evolved from a specialized function to a core component of DCP's work. She believes that embedding urban designers in borough offices will enhance neighborhood plans and private applications. However, critics argue that this move may hinder collaboration and the ability to provide comprehensive advice to the Commissioner.
Voices of Dissent:
Amanda Burden, now a principal at Bloomberg Associates, vehemently opposes the decision, emphasizing the Design Division's vital role in both in-house project development and external reviews. She highlights the division's ability to enhance even small projects and create a sense of place. Kate Orff, founder of SCAPE and director of the Urban Design Program at Columbia GSAPP, shares similar concerns, questioning how this reorganization contributes to the future city vision. She underscores the importance of urban design in global city renewal, ensuring New Yorkers have a livable and affordable home.
The Debate Continues:
The debate rages on, with urban design experts like Julio Salcedo-Fernandez, director of the Urban Design Program at the Spitzer School of Architecture, arguing that city-level operations facilitate feedback loops and innovation across scales. He suggests that focusing solely on the borough scale may limit the potential for integrated solutions that New York City urgently needs. Claire Weisz, founder of WXY, echoes the significance of urban design, citing tangible benefits from its integration into city planning. She stresses the enduring principles of planning and design, emphasizing their symbiotic relationship in serving the long-term interests of New Yorkers.
And here's where it gets controversial: With the new administration in place, will the UDD truly be gone for good? What are the potential implications for the city's future development? Share your thoughts below, and let's keep the conversation going!
