The Housing Capacity Preservation Amendment Act of 2025 aims to amend the Historic Landmark and Historic District Protection Act of 1978 by ensuring that the review of new construction by the Historic Preservation Review Board does not lead to a reduction in housing units or density below what is allowed under existing zoning laws. Specifically, the bill introduces a new subsection that states any finding of incompatibility should not result in a decrease of the floor area ratio, residential square footage, or dwelling unit density below the permitted levels in the relevant zoning district.
Additionally, the bill includes a deletion of the phrase "height" from the definition section of the Act. This legislative change is intended to clarify the parameters within which new construction can be evaluated, thereby promoting housing capacity while still respecting historic preservation efforts. The bill will take effect following the Mayor's approval and a 30-day congressional review period.