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A city plan to protect dozens of blocks of low-rise homes in Dyker Heights moved one step closer to reality last week.

By officially certifying a downzoning plan for Dyker Heights, the City Planning Commission started the public-review process on a Bloomberg Administration bid to limit high-rise development from 62nd to 86th Streets.

The Planning Commission move was widely hailed by local pols.

“[A downzoning] will insure that the character and integrity of the neighborhood is maintained for years to come,” said John Quaglione, an aide to state Sen. Marty Golden (R-Bay Ridge).”

The measure was pushed by Community Board 10 and the Dyker Heights Civic Association, and would apply to the roughly 160 blocks, from 62nd to 86th streets, between Seventh and 14th avenues, plus the Seventh Avenue side of Dyker Beach Park (see map above).

The idea of trying to curb neighborhood overcrowding by restricting developers from tearing down houses to build tall condos has gained popularity throughout Brooklyn, with Park Slope, Carroll Gardens and Fort Greene all completing or working on zoning changes recently.

But opponents say that downzoning results in less housing — which is critically needed as Brooklyn grows. Housing advocates say the high cost of real estate is pricing many people out of their neighborhood. Downzoning, they say, limits housing opportunities for both lower- and middle-class residents.

Soon all sides will have an opportunity to make their voices heard: CB 10’s public hearing on the matter is next week.

The Department of City Planning will present the rezoning plan to Community Board 10 and the Dyker Heights Civic Association on April 10 at the Knights of Columbus (1305 86th St. between 13th and 14th avenues), 7 pm. Call (718) 745-6827 for information. On April 16, CB10 will hold a public hearing on the matter at same location at 7:15 pm.

©2007 Community Newspaper Group