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Agency Testimony

Kari Bailey explains history and review of designated open space

New York City Council · Oct 6, 2026 · starts 1:34:40 · 1 min 52 sec

Bailey explains DOS was created in 1975, mapped over public and private land and unimproved streets, and that private DOS requires CPC review, certification, authorization, or text amendment depending on proposed changes.

Kari Bailey

Next slide, please.

Kari Bailey

Here's a little background in the history of Designated Open Space, or DOS.

Kari Bailey

DOS was created in 1975 as part of the South Richmond Open Space Network.

Kari Bailey

It was primarily mapped over public land, such as parks or DEP blue belts, but DOS was also mapped over private property, both vacant parcels and those with existing structures.

Kari Bailey

DOS was also mapped on unimproved streets that are established on the city map, yet not included in DOT's capital plan for improvement.

Kari Bailey

And today, any privately owned zoning lot that contains DOS requires City Planning Commission review or the CPC.

Kari Bailey

And even if DOS is not being disturbed or modified, a City Planning Commission certification is required to ensure that DOS remains in its natural state.

Kari Bailey

If there's any minor site alterations or landscaping proposed within a designated open space, then a CPC authorization is required.

Kari Bailey

If DOS boundaries are proposed to be modified, then a text minute is required, such as this application that you see today.

Kari Bailey

And the scope of most DOS projects are limited to low-density single-family homes due to the areas in which DOS has been mapped.

Kari Bailey

Projects in DOS can range from minor site alteration

Kari Bailey

for rear yard amenities like pools or patios, to modest home enlargements such as kitchen additions, to new developments for one home or dozens of homes in a brand new residential community.

Kari Bailey

Next slide, please.