A paired district combines an M1 manufacturing district with medium-to-high density residential districts, designated as R3-R10 in the New York City’s zoning code. The purpose of paired districts is to promote the mixture of residential and non-residential uses within the same district, block, or building. Non-residential uses can include commercial uses, community facilities, and light manufacturing. (nyc.gov, 2022)
Paired districts are most common in Special Purpose Districts, and particularly in Special Mixed Use Districts and the Special Long Island City Mixed Use District.
Established in 1997, Special Mixed Use Districts were created to help encourage investment in certain neighborhoods and provide many types of uses that can add variety and convenience for both residents and businesses.
Long Island City’s four subdistricts – Court Square, Queens Plaza, Hunters Point and Dutch Kills – are NYC’s oldest examples of paired districts, with a mix of residential, commercial, industrial and cultural uses. Density of development varies across the subdistricts. However, in Queen’s City, the highest density occurs near subway stations due to bulk regulations that encourage tower development.
Any paired district’s density will depend on where it falls within the R3-R10 range, although certain Floor Area Ratio bonuses can be gained through providing either public parking or open space as part of the development or renovation plan. (nyc.gov, 2022)
