Crain's reported that some real estate investors had viewed Jared Kushner's interest in the Gowanus property as problematic and troublesome to some city officials involved in the potential Gowanus rezoning. The article quoted councilman Brad Lander's interview with WNYC, in which he stated voting to take part in enriching a White House senior advisor “feels ethically tainted” and not something he could do or endorse.

In addition, multiple news sources continue on an ongoing basis to report on investigations of Kushner, involving possible collusion with Russia in interfering with the 2016 elections, efforts to generate foreign investments, and loans received from US financial institutions while serving as senior advisor to the White House. Last Friday, Kushner's security clearance had been downgraded to a level allowing far less access to classified information, as reported in The Washington Post.

Crain's further noted SL Green is the second major real estate company seeking to part ways with Kushner Cos. It reported Vornado is working to sell its 49.5% interest in 666 Fifth Ave. to the Kushners, who co-own the property.

In a statement regarding the recent Gowanus sale, SL Green president, Andrew Mathias, provided limited comments saying, “SL Green is pleased to have partnered with Kushner and LVIWRK on this investment, which yielded excellent results for all stakeholders in the joint venture.”