When reviewing the development and progression of plans drafted by Queens Community Boards, we find justified arguments for their stewardship by New York’s Department of City Planning (DCP). The powers granted to the DCP through the City Charter, particularly those in section 197, include the undisputed dismissal or extensive modification of these community-led plans, resulting in a struggle for community ideas to be put into practice. It is only through legally obligated stewardship of these plans and other community-led planning efforts, by the DCP, that they may meet their full potential and a more equitable built environment can be realized.
This paper argues that community-led efforts in New York are to be given greater and continued support by the DCP in order to be considered successful by planners and community members alike. After considering the socioeconomic impact of these plans in execution and completion, combing through Community Board meeting minutes for comments made in a public forum, reading news articles for resident testimonies, and reviewing published academic observations from professionals with experience in this field, we are able to measure the success of community-led planning efforts at various levels of municipal intervention. By using Little Neck-Douglaston, Downtown Flushing, and Rego Park/Forest Hills as case studies, we will be able to suggest ways forward through the implementation of policy changes and investing in community engagement initiatives.