Overview
- CIM Group proposes converting the largely vacant former Watchtower headquarters at 25–30 Columbia Heights into 661 apartments plus about 113,000 square feet of commercial space.
- Planning documents indicate 165 of the apartments would be permanently affordable, with affordability set at roughly 20% to 30% of units by building.
- The plan would expand 25 Columbia Heights from 12 to 17 stories for 392 units and raise 30 Columbia Heights from 13 to 14 stories for 269 units, while three smaller buildings would not be enlarged.
- City Planning held the March 12 scoping meeting and will accept written comments until March 23 before the application enters ULURP review by Community Board 2, the borough president, the City Planning Commission, and the City Council.
- Neighborhood feedback highlights concerns about building height and view corridors as officials emphasize the need for housing, and a reported timeline suggests construction could start in 2027 with completion around 2029 if approvals are granted.