CRE BizDevel holds panel discussion regarding “Unpacking the City of Yes”

Originally published July 29, 2025 in New York Real Estate Journal

Manhattan, NY New York City’s commercial real estate think tank and networking group CRE BizDevel held a panel discussion “Unpacking the City of Yes: Zoning Reform and Its Impact on NYC Real Estate.” Real estate, architecture, legal and construction experts explained the new City of Yes legislation and its impact on the commercial and multi-family property segments in NYC, especially the rapidly growing commercial-to-multifamily conversion market.

AnaTracey Hawkins, director of strategic growth at L&K Partners and founder of BizDevel, moderated the discussion. Panelists included IMC Architecture principal Eugene Mekhtiyev AIA, LEED GA; L&K Partners CEO John McCarthy-O’Hea; New York Building Congress president Carlo Scissura; Sheldon Lobel, P.C. zoning and land use attorney Richard Lobel and HKS Real Estate Advisors principal Peter Carillo.

Hawkins said, “The success of the City of Yes is critical to numerous stakeholders in New York City – residents who suffer from a severe shortage of affordable housing, the design and construction industries who rely on the growth of the real estate sector, and the real estate industry itself which is struggling with both the consequences of the decline in demand for office space and the looming mortgage payments for loans obtained against equity prior to the pandemic. As a leading New York City real estate think tank, BizDevel felt it was critically important to discuss all aspects of this legislation, from financial to legal, design and zoning, as well as opportunities and pitfalls inherent in all wide-ranging legal undertakings.”

During the discussion, the panelists addressed how zoning updates are accelerating approvals and unlocking new opportunities; the push for adaptive reuse, sustainability, and higher-density housing; the challenges and roadblocks developers, architects, and construction managers still face; and what this means for NYC’s future real estate landscape.

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CRE BizDevel Think Tank Hosts City of Yes Panel

New York City’s commercial real estate think tank and networking group CRE BizDevel held a panel discussion called “Unpacking the City of Yes: Zoning Reform and Its Impact on NYC Real Estate.” Leading real estate, architecture, legal and construction experts explained the new City of Yes legislation and its impact on the commercial and multi-family property segments in New York City, especially the rapidly growing commercial-to-multifamily conversion market.

AnaTracey Hawkins, Director of Strategic Growth at L&K Partners and founder of BizDevel, moderated the discussion. Panelists included IMC Architecture Principal Eugene Mekhtiyev AIA, LEED GA; L&K Partners CEO John McCarthy-O’Hea; New York Building Congress President Carlo Scissura; Sheldon Lobel, P.C. zoning and land use attorney Richard Lobel and HKS Real Estate Advisors Principal Peter Carillo.

During the discussion, the panelists addressed how zoning updates are accelerating approvals and unlocking new opportunities; the push for adaptive reuse, sustainability, and higher-density housing; the challenges and roadblocks developers, architects, and construction managers still face; and what this means for NYC’s future real estate landscape.

“From a construction standpoint, the City of Yes means more opportunities for adaptive reuse projects where existing structures are modernized rather than demolished and rebuilt,” explained McCarthy-O’Hea. “All told, it will bring development to market in a shorter time frame. It also encourages sustainable construction by repurposing materials and reducing demolition waste, which aligns with NYC’s broader energy efficiency goals.”

Read the full article at Commercial Construction & Renovation >

L&K Partners Projects Honored at Interior Design Magazine’s NYCxDESIGN Awards

IBM

L&K Partners is proud to announce that two of its recently completed projects were recognized at Interior Design Magazine’s prestigious NYCxDESIGN Awards.

So&So’s, a new hospitality standout in Manhattan designed by Goodrich, took home the top prize in the Bar/Lounge category. The project was recognized for its bold design, rich material palette, and atmospheric detailing that create a one-of-a-kind guest experience.

IBM’s One Madison Ave office was named winner in the Tech Office category. Designed by Gensler, the project aims to support the next-generation workforce, integrating advanced technology, flexible workspaces, and a clean, modern aesthetic.

Read more about the awards here >

L&K Partners Named One of NYC’s Top General Contractors for Fifth Consecutive Year by The Real Deal

New York, NY – May 12, 2025 — L&K Partners is proud to announce that it has been recognized as one of New York City’s Top General Contractors for the fifth consecutive year, according to The Real Deal’s 2025 rankings. The ranking is calculated by cost of alteration projects filed with the DOB across NYC’s five boroughs between March 1, 2024 and March 1, 2025.

This prestigious acknowledgment highlights L&K’s continued leadership in commercial construction, high-performance interiors, and historic renovation projects across the five boroughs. The firm’s inclusion in The Real Deal’s annual list reaffirms its reputation as a trusted partner to Fortune 500 companies, property owners, and institutional clients navigating New York City’s complex building landscape.

“We are honored to once again be recognized by The Real Deal as one of the city’s top general contractors. It is more than an achievement — it’s a reflection of our people-first mindset. When good people work together, great things are built. We’re proud of the team, grateful to our clients, and energized for what’s ahead.”

— John McCarthy-O'Hea, CEO and Partner

Recent standout projects include:

• A multi-floor historical renovation for a leading financial firm in the landmark Equitable Life Building

• IBM flagship office buildout at One Madison Park, including NYC’s largest “work-enabled” terrace

• State-of-the-art interior build-outs for technology, legal, and media tenants

L&K Partners remains committed to delivering superior construction services and shaping spaces that reflect both the history and the future of New York.

For more information about our recent work or to learn more about our services click here >