I'm seeking advice for applying for a zoning change in a metro area (I'm in NYC)?

[Mike E]

Those of you around Brooklyn will probably know there's an area in Greenpoint / Williamsburg that is transitioning from M1 (Light Manufacturing) to mixed use and residential. Usually these changes involve policy from the mayor and city planner, but I was told by the latter that individual entities can apply to change the zoning of a block or even half a block, if the entity owns all the properties affected.

Now, acquiring all those properties would be quite the challenge in itself. But assuming it done, how possible and how difficult would it be to go through the rezoning process? Can it be done without political clout? What percentage of these requests are accepted? Can I look up those statistics anywhere?

Any insight you can offer will be highly appreciated :)