New York “Let Them Build” Agenda Aims to Cut Delays that Drive Up Rent and Slow School- And Family-Serving Infrastructure

Albany, N.Y. — New York families could see faster timelines for new housing and community projects under Gov. Kathy Hochul’s proposed “Let Them Build” agenda, a package of reforms aimed at cutting red tape in the state’s environmental review process while keeping core safeguards in place.

Hochul’s plan, part of her 2026 State of the State agenda, focuses on changes to the State Environmental Quality Review Act, or SEQRA, which governs how state and local agencies evaluate environmental impacts before approving many projects. The administration says long, unpredictable reviews can add years and costs to housing and infrastructure that local communities already want and have zoned for.

A key piece would exempt certain housing projects from additional SEQRA review when they meet defined criteria—such as being outside flood-risk areas and still complying with other state permits covering issues like water, air quality, and environmental justice. The proposal outlines different thresholds for New York City versus the rest of the state.

Hochul also wants to speed up specific family-serving infrastructure on previously disturbed land, including new or renovated child care centers, clean water projects, green stormwater infrastructure, and parks and trails.

For parents, the biggest near-term impact may be local: quicker approval paths could mean faster openings for child care seats, earlier delivery of neighborhood park upgrades, and more housing supply over time. Officials also plan a “Smart Access” online platform to help applicants and agencies track permits and environmental reviews in real time.

What’s next: The changes would require legislative action as part of state budget negotiations, with additional agency guidance expected as proposals move forward.

This article was produced by a education parenting today journalist with the assistance of AI. This is not legal advice. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.