Kenneth Lowenstein is a land use attorney specializing in advising clients on various aspects of site development in New York City. His expertise encompasses site analysis, zoning modifications, special permits, variances, landmark proceedings, and air rights transfers. He frequently appears before several regulatory bodies, including the New York City Planning Commission, New York City Council, Board of Standards and Appeals, and the Landmarks Preservation Commission. Additionally, Mr. Lowenstein assists clients in securing approvals from various New York City regulatory agencies, such as the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) and the Department of Buildings.
Recent cases handled by Mr. Lowenstein include:
- Representing the Real Estate Board of New York on issues related to the Affordable New York Housing Program and other affordable housing initiatives.
- Advising a major national real estate firm on the development of a full block on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, which will include approximately 1,000 residential units and three new high schools.
- Assisting a joint venture of two prominent affordable housing companies in developing a full block in East Harlem, Manhattan.
- Ongoing representation of a significant real estate company in the development of a 4.5 million-square-foot mixed-use project on the West Side of Manhattan.
- Representing a Boston-based developer in a large residential project on the Upper West Side of Manhattan.
- Advising a client on the development of a “last mile” distribution center in the Bronx.
- Conducting land use due diligence analysis for prospective buyers and construction lenders.
- Representing a client in developing a large waterfront parcel in Queens.
- Providing guidance to clients on obtaining tax exemptions under the Affordable New York Housing Program and the Extended Affordability Program.
Mr. Lowenstein has over 30 years of experience in the land use sector. Before entering private practice, he worked for a U.S. congressman and held senior positions in both New York state and city governments, including roles on former Mayor Edward Koch’s staff and in the New York City’s Department of Buildings and HPD.
