In 2010 the Long Island Index found that there are 8,300 acres of potential land within a ½ mile of our downtowns that could be available for rebuilding. The research found that this land has the capacity to accommodate the next generation of people and jobs. This report by the RPA focuses on the remaining piece of the puzzle: Long Island’s development review processes and land use regulations. These are necessary to provide clear rules and protect the public interest. Too often, however, they can thwart change and impede well-designed downtown development even when there is an alignment of capacity, demand, vision and political will. Report written by Regional Plan Association (RPA).