Massive Williamsburgh Square Development Versus the Streetscape

Of all of the monstrous developments going up or about to break ground in Brooklyn -- particularly on the Williamsburg and Greenpoint waterfronts -- Gowanus Lounge admits to being nearly obsessed with the horror called Williamsburgh Square.

The project (to the right) has been proposed by a politically-connected firm called Quadriad Realty. Quadriad has several proposals on the table for a site on Bedford Avenue, the most alarming of which includes towers of 38, 36, 20 and 12 stories. (Other versions are less massive.)

Last week, we called it development pornography and the most outrageous development in New York City, so we made sure to take some current photos of the site during our traditional Sunday morning B'burg photo shoot.

While Williamsburgh Square principals like former Rep. and Bronx Borough Presidents Herman Badillo say nothing is final, Shane Miller's in-depth coverage in the Greenpoint Star pointed out that Quadriad is hoping for approval by the Department of City Planning by August and for the block to be upzoned to allow highrises by May, 2007. (The view inside part of the site, looking from Berry toward Bedford, is below.)

The Quadriad Development Prospectus quoted by Miller refers to continuing an "acquisition program on an ongoing basis" after the "the consummation of the nine initial development acquisitions of Phases I and II." The most chilling words quoted by Miller come right from Quadriad's prospectus: The developers believe that the completion of Williamsburg Square will pave the way for "subsequent acquisition and development" in an area bounded by Kent Avenue, the BQE, Metropolitan Avenue and North 11th Street.

Translation: A desire to change zoning and build highrises all over North Williamsburg.

Wow.

Okay, Williamsburg(h), please listen carefully: Head over to your favorite hipster hangout. Have a few brews. Then, sit down. Place your head between your knees, and kiss your ass goodbye.