NY A10668

Requires cities, towns, and villages to permit residential construction at a minimum density of 25 dwelling units per acre within one-half mile of covered transportation facilities, regardless of existing zoning restrictions.

Defines covered transportation facilities as rail stations operated by NJ Transit, MTA (including Metro-North and Port Authority), and Long Island Rail Road stations outside cities with populations over one million, as well as bus stops with designated rider parking located 0.5 to 60 miles from such cities.

Prohibits localities from imposing height, setback, floor area ratio, parking, or other restrictions that effectively prevent construction of qualifying transit-oriented development, while preserving compliance with environmental review, fire codes, and historic preservation laws.

Allows aggrieved parties to commence special proceedings in supreme court to compel local government compliance, with courts able to take evidence and modify local decisions, but restricting cost awards against municipalities unless they act with gross negligence, bad faith, or malice.

Takes effect one year after the bill becomes law.