Actually Joseph, much of Brooklyn (and the NJ waterfront as well) is building upwards, higher than the previous buildings in the neighborhood were. And because it suits the city’s tax rolls, almost everyone seems to be supporting it. Of course the suburbs have a lot more space to build, but it’s not exclusively a frum Jewish issue. But when it happens in Monsey it’s a travesty, while elsewhere it’s considered an economic boon.
Of course growth has to be dealt with safely, but to claim we were once a small village and are to remain so forever is unrealistic and shortsighted.