Sep. 16, 2024 By Czarinna Andres
The Department of City Planning (DCP) announced a leadership change for its Queens Office, located at 120-55 Queens Blvd. in Kew Gardens, on Friday, Sept. 13. Lin Zeng was named Director, and Kathi Ko was appointed Deputy Director.
The appointments come as the office ramps up efforts to implement ambitious neighborhood plans, specifically One LIC in Long Island City and the Jamaica neighborhood plan.
The DCP leads strategic growth and development across New York City through community-driven planning and citywide zoning regulations. The office also oversees more than 150 land use applications annually and is actively involved in the citywide “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity” initiative.
“Lin Zeng and Kathi Ko are exactly who we need to lead the Queens Office at this critical time,” said Dan Garodnick, Director of the Department of City Planning. “They bring a combination of initiative, innovation, and a deep commitment to the residents of Queens. I am confident that they will advance our goals to create housing and expand economic opportunities across the borough.”
“I am honored to lead DCP’s Queens Office during such a pivotal time for the borough,” said Lin Zeng, the newly appointed Director of the Queens Office. “Queens is a remarkably dynamic and diverse community, and I am committed to working closely with residents, community partners, stakeholders, and my talented team to help plan a brighter future for all who call Queens home.”
Zeng brings over a decade of experience to the role, beginning her career with the City of New York in 2010. She previously worked at the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), where she led affordable housing developments in Brooklyn. Most recently, she worked at the School Construction Authority, enhancing interagency coordination with DCP. As the new Director, Zeng will oversee a team of 20 planners and manage neighborhood planning projects that impact Queens’ 2.6 million residents.
Kathi Ko, who steps into the Deputy Director role, combines community-focused expertise and technical know-how. “Having spent the past decade working with Queens communities on planning projects, I am thrilled to step into this role,” said Ko. “I am deeply committed to advancing initiatives that address our housing and economic needs and help build vibrant and resilient neighborhoods.”
A Queens native, Ko has worked with the DCP Queens Office since 2014, holding several key roles including Borough Planner and Borough Certification Manager. Her experience includes a focus on community organizing and transportation equity policy in the non-profit sector.
Both Zeng and Ko will lead efforts on major neighborhood plans in Long Island City and Jamaica, while also driving community engagement and advancing citywide planning initiatives.