Neighbors Say Glen Cove Waterfront Project Will Leave Them Homeless

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Neighbors say a new waterfront project on Long Island is leaving them with no place to go.

It's the latest step forward in revitalizing the industrial waterfront of Glen Cove.

The city has okayed a large condo project to replace a run down apartment complex.

As CBS2's Ali Bauman explained, the new look for Glen Cove will feature a soon to open ferry terminal overlooking the G Marina right next to a cleaned up superfund site where luxury condos are planned.

For dozens of renters it means they will have to get out soon.

"Three months you have, ya know. So, you're like scrambling around, running around trying to find out where you're going to go, what are you going to do. I just wish we had more time," Sherria Felder said.

Felder said she can't find anything close to her current rent of $1,250.

The developer has offered to pay moving expenses and security charges.

Nathaniel Jones and his wife accepted that help and found an affordable apartment, but the low-income retiree worries about other tenants not eligible for subsidies.

"It's not fair to the people in here, especially those with children. What are the children going to do if they don't find them a place to live," he said.

Two neighbors bordering the property are suing, claiming the condo complex violates zoning codes.

"Our neighborhood has single family homes on half acre to one acre lots that abut that project, so the change in land use is extreme," Marsha Silverman said.

Glen Cove's mayor said there is no zoning violation, adding he convinced the developer to lower the height and density of the original proposal.

"I got it down to three stories for the main building, and 176 units. I think it's a fair compromise for everyone," Mayor Reginald Spinello said.

The displaced tenants want Glen Cove to offer subsidized housing, but there is already a seven year waiting list.

The developer hopes to break ground in the summer, and said 16 of the condos will be considered affordable and priced below market.