Critics of a plan to build high-rise buildings next to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden are fighting to block such developments to prevent them from blocking out sunlight plants need to grow.

Opponents say the buildings, some of which could be up to 40 stories tall, could destroy some of the garden's treasured plants by casting massive shadows over them.

Alicia Boyd, of the group Movement to Protect the People, says that in addition to breaking height limit rules established in 1991, the developments would lead to gentrification and the displacement of some residents.

Some of the projects would require zoning changes that would reverse the rules that were put in place in the 1990s over the same shadow concerns.

Scot Medbury, the president of Brooklyn Botanic Garden, says he has "serious concerns" about how the shadows might affect the garden, its "priceless plant collections" and other programs.

Cornell Realty released a statement that said, "We are glad to reenter the public review process for the plan to reactivate the Franklin Avenue properties. While the plan remains the same as it was in 2017, the need for affordable housing in Crown Heights has only become more compelling. We appreciate the feedback we received from the Community Board at its June 12 public meeting where we presented our plan, as well as through the public hearing it held on this proposal, and we continue to welcome their input.”