New York City truly is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics. I am fortunate to represent an Assembly district which includes well-known neighborhoods that are rich in history and charm. I grew up in New York City and have lived in the West Village since 1972. The small, tree-lined sidestreets and low-rise buildings always intrigued me. When I wasa child, I visited the small West Village printing shop my father and uncle owned. I gained an early appreciation for Lower Manhattan and what has made these neighborhoods wildly popular for residents and visitors alike.

For these reasons, it is often difficult to accept that change in our neighborhoods is inevitable. Some of these changes are positive and reflect the natural cycles of communities; however there is a growing sense that change in rapidly developing areas of Lower Manhattan is beginning to erode the unique character of our neighborhoods, eliminating the very qualities that draw people to them. Increasingly, we see destructive trends that include the accelerating loss of long-time neighborhood shops and restaurants. These local businesses add visual interest to our streetscapes and provide the kind of individually-tailored services that help neighbors connect to one another. Every time an independent pharmacy, neighborhood supermarket or mini-market, cobbler or dry cleaner is replaced by a franchise drug store, chain coffee shop or high-end clothing boutique, a bit of our neighborhood's character is lost.

The wave of development taking place in the City continues to threaten our neighborhood. Too often, new development comes in the form of tall glassy towers that clash with and have no relation to the neighborhood in which they are located. While historic districts offer some protection, areas that border historic districts have seen dramatic height and bulk intrusions. If we don't preserve what is so unique about our neighborhoods and prevent them from being eroded by inappropriate construction, our community's character will continue to be undermined by negative changes.

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