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Policy Developments - Landmarks

In the rapidly developing and re-developing New York City, “history” often finds itself located at the same place as “progress”. Balancing the preservation of the rich history that has shaped New York into what it is today with the needs of economic development is a constant struggle. In addition, the act of creating a historic district or landmark might have an effect on property values and is sometimes used as a tool to oppose a certain development proposal.

In this section of PlanNYC we aim to keep you up to date on the ‘big picture’ developments affecting landmark and historic preservation policy in the City. In addition, we will also provide information on the applications of that policy throughout the City.

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Landmark Restaurant May Have Been Altered Illegally

Thursday, October 09, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Although the City Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) issued a stop-work order at the end of September, developers converting the landmark restaurant Lundy’s in Sheepshead Bay into a gourmet food market have continued working. Awnings and the well-known "F.W.I. Lundy" lettering over the entrance have been taken down, and State Senator Carl Kruger says it was done without proper LPC approval. LPC officials say they did not fine market owner David Isaev because the work was done by a subcontractor who may have been unaware of the warning. Isaev has since filed for a permit to change the building’s exterior.

Residents Want West End Avenue Designated Preservation District

Thursday, October 09, 2008 | New York Times | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

There are currently seven historic preservation districts on the Upper West Side, but Landmark West, a local preservation group, is appealing to the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission to designate West End Avenue from 70th Street to 107th Street a historic preservation district as well. Kate Wood, executive director of Landmark West says that residents fear developers are going to attempting to replace row houses and buildings built by prolific architects with modern apartment towers.

Developer May Buy Mostly Unknown East Village Street

Sunday, September 28, 2008 | New York Times | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Developer Avalon Bay wants to buy Extra Place, an obscure street in the East Village off of First Street between the Bowery and Second Avenue. Avalon would like to repave the street and create cleaner passages to shops which are expected to open on the street. The city’s Department of Housing Preservation and Development currently owns the street, and the neighborhood community board wants the city to retain control to preserve its historic character, but the city does not care to keep it.

Court Blocks Developer From Demolishing Landmark UES Tenements

Wednesday, September 24, 2008 | New York Sun | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

New York State Supreme Court ruled that two Upper East Side tenements built in 1915 are landmarks and that its owner, Stahl Real Estate, cannot replace them with 28-story glass office towers. The six-story tenement buildings on York Avenue between East 64th and East 65th streets were granted landmark designation in 1990, it was removed four months later, and the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) restored landmark status in 2006. Some of the structures’ architectural details have been altered, but the buildings’ history and structure led Judge Emily Jane Goodman to hold up the LPC’s landmark distinction. The tenements are distinctive for their access to light and air and are credited with initiating the federal housing movement.

McCarren Park Pool Construction Started

Thursday, September 18, 2008 | Brownstoner | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Construction has begun at McCarren Park Pool. The pool will be converted to a mixed-use facility.

Five Sites Granted Landmark Designation

Tuesday, September 16, 2008 | New York Times | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) designated five sites landmarks on Tuesday, including the former Wheatsworth Bakery on the Lower East Side. The 1928 factory is known for making Milk-Bone dog biscuits. The LPC also voted to grant landmark status to the Public National Bank of New York building at 106 Avenue C and Seventh Street in the East Village, the Tompkinsville recreation center and pool in Staten Island, the Betsy Head pool and recreation center in Brownsville, Brooklyn, and Fire Engine Company No. 53 at 175 East 104th Street in East Harlem

Con Edison Tower Up For Landmark Designation

Friday, September 12, 2008 | New York Times | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) is proposing that the building commonly referred to as the Con Edison tower be designated a landmark. The illuminated tower at 14th Street and Irving Place was built in 1928. Recently, Con Edison has been selling real estate but a spokesman stated that the company has no objection to the proposed designation, mostly likely because its parking lot on Third Avenue is a distinct property.

LPC Approves McCarren Pool Plans

Wednesday, September 10, 2008 | Gothamist | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) approved the new plans for McCarren Pool in Brooklyn. A skating rink, pool, restaurant, a community center, indoor performance space and other amenities are all included in the new plans.

Mixed-Use Facility Proposed For McCarren Pool

Monday, September 08, 2008 | New York Sun | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) will vote tomorrow on a plan for a mixed-use facility at McCarren Pool, which has not been used as a pool since 1984 but will undergo a $50 million renovation to restore it to its original use. The potential plan would decrease the size of the six-acre pool and would include a community center, skating rink, café, bathrooms, changing rooms, lockers and access ramps. McCarren Pool has been used as a music performance venue since 2005 and was granted landmark status by the LPC last year. The renovations are set to be complete in 2011.

Landmarked Building Sells Air Rights In Transfer Deal

Monday, September 08, 2008 | New York Times | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Through a deal approved by the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC), the General Society of Mechanics and Tradesmen is selling unused air rights from its building at 20 West 44th Street, which it has occupied since 1899. RFR Holdings bought 60,000 square feet of unused air rights from the Society to build a Pelli Clarke Pelli-designed building at Fifth Avenue and 43rd Street, which will make up 1/6 of the the new tower.

LPC to Help Fund Bronx Landmark Renovation

Tuesday, August 26, 2008 | New York Times | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

A landmarked building in the Bronx will be renovated into housing and commercial space. The red brick building located at 614 Cortland Avenue was originally built as a house with a saloon and meeting space in the 1800s and was granted landmark status in 1987. Now, the nonprofit Neighborhood Housing Services of New York City is in the process of transforming this historical property into three apartments and ground floor commercial space so it can be sold to a private buyer. Grants issued by the Landmarks Preservation Commission will help fund the renovation and the price tag of the finished building is expected to be roughly $800,000.

LPC Administers CDBG Grants to Improve Mott Haven Historic Districts

Monday, August 04, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Three historic districts in Mott Haven are receiving Community Development Block Grants from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to renovate the exteriors of historic brownstones. The City’s Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) is overseeing the distribution of these grants and the restoration of the houses receiving them. According to the Director of the Historic Grants Program at LPC, the restoration of some of these historic brownstones is having a “ripple” effect, encouraging nearby homeowners to apply for these grants and fix up their homes as well. The renovations in these historic districts are expected to further increase the already rising prices of homes in the area.

Councilmember Como Shows Support for Potential Landmark Designations in Queens

Monday, August 04, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

City Councilmember Anthony Como informed Robert Tierney, Chairman of the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC), that he would like to see the creation of historic districts in Richmond Hill and Ridgewood in addition to landmarking the Forest Park Carousel located in Woodhaven. According to a spokeswoman of the LPC, the meeting was “constructive” and LPC would look into his recommendations. Local supporters of these proposed designations are hopeful that Como will be able to get these sites landmarked. Como was elected a Councilmember through a special election in June, replacing Dennis Gallagher. He is up for reelection in November.

Landmarks Commission Goal: Preserve Thousands of Buildings Before Bloomberg’s Term is Up

Monday, July 28, 2008 | New York Post | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Landmarks Preservation Commission is pushing to get thousands of buildings preserved through landmark designation before the end of Mayor Bloomberg’s term. The Bloomberg administration has prioritized landmarks, designating an average of just under 400 buildings per year during the mayor’s two terms. Currently under consideration for designation are over 800 buildings in Prospect Heights, some 40 buildings in Bedford Stuyvesant, and about 100 buildings in Ridgewood, Queens.

Upper Eastside Residents Lobby for Larger Landmarks District

Wednesday, July 23, 2008 | New York Sun | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Residents of the Upper East Side are lobbying the Landmarks Preservation Commission to include 200 additional buildings in the historic district created in 1981. The cornerstone building, the Kean House, was built in 1880 and sits just outside the boundaries of the district. The Landmarks Commission stated that while it is looking into the area, it has not committed to a timeline.

Landmarks Commission Considers Prospect Heights for Designation

Wednesday, July 23, 2008 | Brooklyn Papers | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Landmarks Preservation Commission is considering 12 blocks in Prospect Heights for designation as an historic district. The area which directly abuts the Atlantic Yards project, is part of historic brownstone Brooklyn. While most seem in general support of the designation, some are saying it may be coming too late to the neighborhood that is already in danger of out-of-scale development due to the precedent set by Atlantic Yards.

LPC Designates New Scenic Landmark; Historic District

Thursday, July 17, 2008 | NY1 | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Morningside Park has been designated a landmark by the city’s Landmark Preservation Commission (LPC) because of its unique mixture of natural rock and man-made sculptures. The park, which first opened in 1987, is the city’s 10th scenic landmark. The George Cunningham Store on Staten Island was also designated a landmark and a small area in West Chelsea that houses 30 buildings was designated an historic district, the city’s 92nd overall.

Historic Building in Staten Island Passes Landmark Committee

Wednesday, July 16, 2008 | New York Times | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

A building that previously contained a butcher shop has passed the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission to become a protected landmark. The George G. Cunningham store is reminiscent of 19th century architecture. Also approved was the West Chelsea Historic District consisting of 30 late-19th century buildings between 25th and 28th Streets and 10th and 12th Avenues.

Prospect Heights Historic District Considered

Monday, July 14, 2008 | Brownstoner | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Landmarks Preservation Commission this week will consider designating a Prospect Heights Historic District that would cover about 21 blocks in the Brooklyn neighborhood. The designation, if passed, would prevent buildings in the district from being demolished or altered in any way “unfitting with their historic character.” The proposal has significant support in the neighborhood, which borders the Atlantic Yards development site.

Prospect Heights Historic Designation Seen as Protection from Further Development

Sunday, July 13, 2008 | New York Sun | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Landmarks Preservation Commission is considering designating a portion of Prospect Heights, Brooklyn as a historic landmarks district. The designation, if it goes through, may have some effect on the Atlantic Yards development, despite the fact that none of the mega-development’s footprint would be in the historic district. Opponents of the Atlantic Yards project, see the landmarking as a way to prevent expansion of the development and further “out-of-scale” building.

Bronx Community Groups Push for Community Benefit Agreement

Wednesday, June 25, 2008 | New York Times | Topic: Economic Development

Bronx community groups surrounding the Kingsbridge Armory are looking to initiate a Community Benefit Agreement (CBA) with developer, Related, to ensure some local needs are taken into consideration as the project formulates. While CBA's are not a widely used tool in New York, they are very successful in other states and are becoming more and more popular here as well. Community members would like to reach an agreement with the developer (without the City's involvement) in order to promise a minimum level of standards for jobs and hiring practices as well as the inclusion of much-needed recreational space and social services as well as the opportunity for local small business owners to locate in the development. The City feels that the public review process already addresses these needs and a CBA would not be necessary.

Queens Bowling Alley Recommended for Landmark Status

Monday, June 23, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Some local residents in Queens are advocating to landmark Woodhaven Lanes, a bowling alley in Glendale. The alley, once the site of a national television game show, closed on May 18 and the building’s lease has been put on the market. Some preservationists believe that Woodhaven’s role in the community and its place in American television history merits it landmarked status. A spokeswoman from the City’s Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) said that the agency will look into landmarking this building.

Effort to Preserve Historic Jamaica Buildings

Wednesday, May 28, 2008 | Queens Courier | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Following the recent extensive rezoning and an increase in real estate prices, some preservationists are concerned that historic buildings will be demolished in Jamaica, Queens. The Committee for the Preservation of Jamaica Architecture and History, an ad hoc committee of the Central Queens Historical Association, has complied a list of 25 buildings, of which only two are currently landmarks, that are worthy of preservation. The group is asking that the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) consider these structures for landmark status before they are destroyed by development.

Preservationists Advocate for Budget Increases for LPC

Tuesday, May 27, 2008 | New York Sun | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Various preservation advocates will convene at City Hall tomorrow to request that the City Council grant an additional $300,000 to the Landmark Preservation Commission’s (LPC) budget. The LPC is one of five agencies whose budget has not yet been finalized by Mayor Bloomberg. The Mayor’s decision to cut the budget by over $1.3 billion means that some agencies will not receive as much money as they had hoped for. The LPC’s budget for fiscal year 2008 is $4.3 million and it is unclear how these cuts will affect the 2009 budget.

Landmarks Approves Air Rights Transfer for Nouvel Tower

Tuesday, May 13, 2008 | Newsday.com | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Landmarks Preservation Commission unanimously approved the transfer of air rights from two landmarked sites to the 75-story building planned to be built next to MoMA. The skyscraper, which is designed by Jean Nouvel, will include condominiums and hotel rooms. Some residents have opposed the building because they believe it is too large and out of scale with the neighborhood.

Landmarks Commission Approves New Noho Historic District

Tuesday, May 13, 2008 | The Real Deal | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Landmarks Preservation Commission unanimously approved the Noho Extension as a new historic district, covering 56 buildings new buildings in the two block span. This district is adjacent to two other historic districts in Noho and includes buildings from the late 19th and early 20th century.

Stuy Town Residents Renew Efforts for Landmarked Status

Monday, April 28, 2008 | New York Observer | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Residents of Stuyvesant Town have renewed their efforts to designate the planned community a landmark - the first effort since Tishman Speyer purchased the complex in 2006. While many claim the effort has nothing to do with the new owner, a landmark designation would prevent construction of new luxury condominiums in the treasured open spaces scattered through Stuy Town. The Historic Districts Council gave its support to the plan seven years ago.

Efforts Emerge to Designate Parts of Morningside Heights a Historic District

Tuesday, April 22, 2008 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Several elected officials, including Congressman Charlie Rangel, Public Advocate Betsy Gotbaum, and other interested groups have showed interest in establishing Morningside Heights as a historic district. Some believe that the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) has been unresponsive to this request and State Assemblyman Daniel O’Donnell has requested all materials from the LPC on a potential historic district through the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL). He is hoping to expose the inaction of the Commission through this effort.

Non-profits in Hunts Point Worry that Landmark Status Will Increase Rents

Friday, April 11, 2008 | Bronx Beat | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The recent designation of the American Bank Notes Building in Hunts Point as a landmark has some current non-profit tenants of the building worried. While they agree that the landmark status may have its benefits, such as increased visibility for their businesses, they fear that the new status combined with expenses associated with a planned renovation of the building will cause their rents to increase to the point that they may need to relocate. One group – a homeless shelter – is already being forced to find a new home due to a rent increase.

Jackie Robinson's Former Home Under Review for Landmark Designation

Tuesday, April 08, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

A home purchased by Jackie Robinson and his wife Rachel in Addisleigh Park, Queens in 1949 could be destroyed by a future owner because it was never designated a landmark by the City’s Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC). However, more significant than the home itself may be the racial barrier broken when the Robinsons and other African-American families moved into this part of Queens after a restrictive covenant for the area was lifted. The Robinsons sold the home in 1955 once their family outgrew the space. The LPC says the home is “under review” for designation. The area is also being considered for historic district designation because of its significance in racial integration.

Landmarks Preservation Commission Public Meeting

Friday, April 04, 2008 | Brooklyn Eagle | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Landmarks Preservation Commission will be holding its next public meeting on April 8 to discuss several sites in Brooklyn, including two in the Brooklyn Heights Historic District, one in the Ditmas Park Historic District, and one in the Park Slope Historic District.

Local Effort To Landmark Kerouac Home in Queens

Tuesday, April 01, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

There is an effort underway to encourage landmark designation to the home that Jack Kerouac lived in while writing his famous novel “On The Road” in Ozone Park, Queens. The Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) has not stated publicly whether the site was included in its most recent survey of 12,495 properties in Queens. Writer Patrick Fenton is also pursing the designation of a home in South Richmond Hill that Kerouac’s mom moved to in the 1950s and where Kerouac wrote some of his other classics.

Local Effort to Note Historic Buildings Might Restart in Queens

Tuesday, April 01, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Roughly 10 years ago, historian Stanley Cogan developed a system called Queensmark to designate historic homes and buildings in Queens that were not landmarked by the city. Led by Cogan, a team of architects and historians would scan the neighborhoods and suggest places for Queensmark status. Property owners would then be asked to place a plaque in front of their building. While the practice died for some time, there are current efforts to resurrect it in the face of large-scale development in Queens. While Queensmark designation does not prevent a structure from being demolished, preservationists hope that such a title will pave the way for landmark designation from the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC).

Community Board 1 Approves Glass Addition to Battery Maritime Building

Sunday, February 10, 2008 | New York Post | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Community Board 1 has approved the plans to build a four-story glass addition to the landmarked Battery Maritime Building in lower Manhattan. The plans for the addition include public indoor space, a rooftop bar and restaurant, and a 140-room boutique hotel. Some Community Board members expressed concern about the renovations, especially in regards to how it would look from across the river in Brooklyn, but ultimately they determined that the addition was the best way to save the building from further decay. The Dermot Company won the development bid along with their restaurant partner, the Poulakakos family, who also own Harry’s Steak and Adrianne’s Pizza. They have not yet signed a hotel operator for the project. The Community Board's vote is advisory only. The Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) must approve the plans.

Domino Sugar Condo’s Gear Up for Landmarks Approval

Thursday, January 24, 2008 | Curbed | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Since the Domino Sugar Factory was designated a landmark last year by the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC), development plans for new condos and other retail and commercial space must be approved by the Commission The plan for the site include building 2200 new apartments in buildings up to 40 stories high. The developer will present to the Community Board first before its hearing in early February with the LPC.

Community Board 1 Approves Battery Maritime Renovations

Friday, January 18, 2008 | Downtown Express | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Despite concerns that the planned glass hotel on top of the Battery Maritime Building was too large and too modern, Community Board 1 (CB1) approved the changes by a vote of 30-6. The plans also call for restoring the interior of the landmarked building and creating public space, which is why the Board did not want to reject the proposal. The most recent plan also includes four cupolas that were part of the original façade and torn down 70 years ago. CB1 plays only an advisory role; the Landmarks Preservation Commission still has not seen the most recent plans or scheduled a hearing on them.

Potential Extension of the NoHo Historic District Causes Delays for Developer

Thursday, January 03, 2008 | New York Sun | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Landmarks Preservation Commission is considering including Bond Street as part of the NoHo Historic District. This has resulted in delays for developer Adam Gordon who has proposed to demolish 41 and 43 Bond Street in order to construct a 7-unit condominium building. Mr. Gordon believes that these two buildings offer no historical value to the area and he has been meeting with representatives from the Landmarks Commission to discuss his plans.

DUMBO to Get Historic Designation

Tuesday, December 18, 2007 | New York Post | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Landmarks Preservation Commission will vote to designate 20 blocks in DUMBO as historic. The City Council still needs to approve the designation, which will protect 91 brick-facade manufacturing buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries. The landmarked blocks run from Bridge Street to Main Street (east-west) and John Street to York Street (north-south). The DUMBO neighborhood association has been lobbying for the historic designation for over seven years in an effort to prevent high-rise development in the area.

Preservation Group Urges Pyramid Club Landmarking

Wednesday, December 12, 2007 | The Villager | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Pyramid Club located on Avenue A in the East Village is the latest building being pushed for landmark status by the Greenwich Village Society of Historic Preservation (GVSHP). The group recently completed a lot by lot study of the East Village to determine what sites and buildings were of landmark quality. The Pyramid Club was host to many things during its 132 year history, including a gathering space for the German population of the East Village and, more recently, a venue for music and performance art. The Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) has yet to comment on GVSHP’s recommendation to landmark the building.

Webster Hall is a Potential Landmark

Sunday, December 09, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Webster Hall’s architecture and history are being analyzed by the city’s Landmarks Preservation Committee (LPC) for potential landmark designation. Completed in 1887, Webster Hall has been host to a variety of things – serving as a location for political rallies and confrontations, banquet dinners, a mostly recently a music venue and dance club. The building has been altered over the years. In October, the LPC held a hearing on the building. Its current owner, Unity Gallega of the US, opposed the designation at the hearing. The Greenwich Village Society for Historic Preservation supports the designation.

Preservation Groups Disagree on Battery Maritime Building

Sunday, November 25, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Some preservation groups and activists in the city are in disagreement over what should be done with the Battery Maritime Building, following a $60 million renovation paid for by the Empire State Development Corporation. New plans for the building include constructing a large hotel and retail space on top of the already existing structure. The Landmarks Commission asked Dermot Company and the Poulakakos family, the groups developing the new space, to rethink its plan to create a large glass addition on top which would house the new hotel. It is unclear what revisions to the design will be made.

Sunnyside Rezoning Up for Debate

Thursday, November 15, 2007 | Queens Ledger | Topic: Land Use

Despite the fact that Sunnyside Gardens is a landmarked, historical district, a move by the City Planning Commission (CPC) to alter current zoning is gaining opposition from some local residents. In 1974 zoning was established that required anyone making changes to a building to go through the city’s ULURP process. However, the lengthy and expensive process has prevented all but 2 proposals and many have opted to make changes to their buildings without the special permits. The CPC is hoping to make an amendment to the zoning that would eliminate the use of ULURP but would retain many of the characteristics of the 1974 zoning. Despite the Commission’s promise to maintain current zoning, some residents are concerned that the language of the amendment will leave the district vulnerable to overdevelopment. Community District 2 will first consider the change, then the Borough President.

CB5 Resolves to Protect Hotel Pennsylvania

Friday, November 09, 2007 | New York Observer | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Community Board 5 passed a resolution asking the Landmarks Preservation Commission to protect the Hotel Pennsylvania as an historic landmark. Vornado Realty Trust, the owner of the building, plans to turn the site into an office tower. At the board meeting, supporters of the hotel noted its cultural significance, while opponents expressed concerns that landmark status may disrupt the nearby redevelopment of Madison Square Garden and Farley Post Office.

Efforts to Try to Save Part of New York's First Trade Center History

Sunday, November 04, 2007 | Associated Press | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Historians are attempting to stop the demolition of a building on Pearl Street that they believe is part of the New York City's historic role in world trade. The building, Greek Revival Warehouse, is slated to be demolished in order to build a hotel on site. Those who oppose its destruction argue that the building should be saved because it is part of the fabric that made New York City a world player in trading, long before the World Trade Center Towers were built.

Greenpoint Pencil Factory Gains Landmark Status

Saturday, November 03, 2007 | Brooklyn Papers | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Landmark Preservation Commission (LPC) has decided to make the Greenpoint Eberhard Faber Pencil Factory and some of the surrounding buildings into a historic district. Many believe that the LPC designation is vital to Brooklyn’s industrial history because of ongoing commercial and retail redevelopment. The historic designation means that the buildings will continue to operate as residential and commercial spaces but the LPC must approve any changes to the buildings' facades. The City Council must give final approval.

City Designates Seven Landmarks

Wednesday, October 31, 2007 | AM New York | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) has designated seven new landmarks, including the Eberhard Faber pencil factory in Greenpoint, Lord & Taylor on 5th Avenue and 38th Street, and the Manhattan House on East 66th Street. All seven designations must now be approved by the City Council. The LPC also considered the creation of a DUMBO historic district and giving landmark status to Webster Hall and five other East Village buildings.

Hudson Square Row Houses Gain Landmark Status

Tuesday, October 30, 2007 | The Villager | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

City Council approved landmark status for two 19th-century row houses located at 486 and 488 Greenwich St following a unanimous vote by the Landmark Preservation Commission. The houses, built in 1820, are some of the last remaining buildings in the Federal style in Manhattan.

Sunnyside Gardens Given Landmark Status

Tuesday, October 30, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The City Council approved landmark status for Sunnyside Gardens in Queens. Sunnyside Gardens was one of the city’s first planned communities, built in the 1920s with a focus on open spaces. The landmark status has been controversial, as some have been concerned that it would squeeze out lower income residents, while others claim that it will protect the neighborhood’s middle class character.

Initial Battery Maritime Plans Rejected by City

Friday, October 26, 2007 | Downtown Express | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Plans for the new Battery Maritime Hotel were rejected this week by the Landmarks Preservation Commission citing problems with the developer’s renovation plans. Dermot Company, Inc. was selected in June 2007 to redevelop the building as a hotel with other various uses, such as market and restaurant space. The historic building is set to reopen to the public in 2010, but disagreements over how the building will be reconstructed, specifically how an addition to the building can be built without altering its historic aesthetic, have caused delay.

Historic District Approval Likely in Fiske Terrace and Midwood Park

Sunday, September 30, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

On October 16, the Landmarks Preservation Commission will consider the 250 "grand wood frame houses" of Fiske Terrace and Midwood Park for landmark status. These mass-produced houses represent the movement of the middle class from inner Brooklyn row houses to more suburban areas during the early 20th century. A spokesperson for the landmarks commission is optimistic that a historic district designation will be approved.

$7 Million for Improvements to Historic Greenwich Village Library

Wednesday, August 22, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Members of both city and state government have committed $7 million to restore the historic Jefferson Market Courthouse in Greenwich Village, which has fallen into disrepair in recent years. The funding effort is a response to a report by an architectural preservation firm detailing the building’s deterioration.

WPA Pools Are Granted Landmark Status

Wednesday, July 25, 2007 | NY1 | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Three city pools built by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) 1936 have been granted landmark status by the Landmarks Preservation Commission. The pools include the McCarren Pool in Williamsburg, which is set for a $50 million renovation. In addition, the commission granted landmark status to several townhouses on 56th Street or “Bankers Row” and several houses on Greenwich Street near Canal.

Historic Battery Maritime Building to be Renovated

Wednesday, July 11, 2007 | Metro New York | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Dermot Company has been chosen by the Economic Development Corporation to renovate the historic Battery Maritime Building in Lower Manhattan. The renovation is expected to cost $110 million and include a rooftop restaurant, food market, and hotel. All changes must go through the Landmarks Preservation Commission.

Crotona Pool Designated as City Landmark

Tuesday, July 03, 2007 | New York Daily News | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Landmarks Preservation Commission recently designated the Crotona pool as a city landmark. The 925,000 gallon pool was constructed during the Depression as one of 11 WPA pools in New York. The Astoria Park Pool in Queens and the Jackie Robinson Bath House in Manhattan have already been granted landmark status, and the Commission is currently considering whether or not to grant the status to the remainder of the WPA pools.

Sunnyside Gardens Becomes a Historic District

Wednesday, June 27, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Landmarks Preservation Commission has voted to make Sunnyside Gardens a historic district, recognizing the neighborhood as unique example of an early planned residential community. Residents remain divided, with some supporting the ruling as a tool to help preserve the neighborhood's character. Others are worried that the new designation will make it difficult to build affordable housing in the area and generally drive up rents.

Future of the Brooklyn Waterfront Uncertain

Saturday, June 16, 2007 | New York Newsday | Topic: Waterfront

The accelerated pace of waterfront development from Sunset Park to Greenpoint has made many long-time Brooklyn residents apprehensive about the waterfront's future. The National Trust for Historic Preservation included Brooklyn's waterfront in its record of the nation's most endangered historical places for this reason. Preservationists have shuddered in recent years at rezoned waterfront neighborhoods that will accommodate commercial and residential developments, like the ongoing development of the Red Hook piers and the Greenpoint waterfront.

Brooklyn Waterfront One of Nation's Most Endangered Historic Areas

Friday, June 15, 2007 | New York Daily News | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The northern waterfront of Brooklyn, including the Greenpoint Terminal Market and the Brooklyn Army Terminal, has been placed on the list of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places. The National Trust for Historic Preservation has called for efforts to combine historic preservation with development, mimicking efforts in TriBeCa and SoHo where historic factories are either still in use or the buildings are preserved but used for other purposes. With increased freight traffic expected for the New York Harbor the waterfront area may be in high demand for redevelopment, leading to additional concern about the loss of historic sites.

Residents Divide on Landmarking Sunnyside Gardens

Thursday, June 14, 2007 | AM New York | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Opinions vary widely as to whether or not Sunnyside Gardens in Queens should be landmarked as a historic district. The Landmarks Preservation Commission is expected to approve the landmark status later this month, which would then need final approval by the City Council. Those who are against the landmarking are concerned that it would make it much more difficult to repair their houses or make any changes to the structures. Supporters believe that the community’s character is currently not adequately protected.

Domino Sugar Factory a Historic Landmark?

Monday, June 04, 2007 | Gowanus Lounge | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Preservationists and developers are arguing whether or not the Domino Sugar Refinery in Williamsburg should be landmarked as a historic building. Community Preservation Corporation Resources is supposed to develop the property along with Isaac Katan and supports a landmark designation for the property. However, preservationists want a much broad designation, including a building which the developer is likely to try to rezone for housing.

Preservations Seek to Landmark Church, Prevent Apartment Building

Sunday, June 03, 2007 | New York Post | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

St. John the Divine has already reached an agreement with developers for construction of a 300-unit apartment building within its gardens, but preservationists are attempting to make the church a federally protected landmark in order to break up the deal. The developer will pay the church trustees $2.5 million a year for land, the church will retain control of the apartments when the lease expires, and 20% of the houses must be set aside for affordable housing. The church trustees have supported the agreement because they believe that without the influx of cash the church would have to close permanently.

Brooklyn's Broken Angel To Lose Its Heights

Saturday, May 12, 2007 | Brooklyn Papers | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Broken Angel, an iconic building in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn, may finally be leaving the neighborhood after a recent court order requiring removal the upper portions of the building. Arthur Wood, the creating artist, has said he will comply. The building had been declared unsafe, and Woods had been seeking time to renovate the building in order to meet building code requirements, but the upper level’s are also in violation of local zoning.

Budget Increase for Landmark Preservation Commission?

Thursday, May 10, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Various preservation groups are lobbying for a $1 million increase to the budget of the Landmark Preservation Commission. Manhattan Borough President agrees that the commission is under funded, with less than 70 full-time staff members handling over 9,000 applications a year. Preservationists believe the lack of staffing and funding has hurt the number of landmark designations being created.

A New Generation of Neighborhood Preservationists

Wednesday, May 02, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Leaders of the historical preservation movement across the city are younger than intuition would dictate, says an article by the New York Sun. Many of the crusaders for historical preservation throughout New York have also come from outside the city, citing their displeasure with the prevalence of suburban sprawl across the country. The cadre of preservationists highlighted in the article has united against such recent developments as the 980 Madison Tower, the New York Historical Society tower development, and the Union Theological Seminary plan in Chelsea. While preservationists maintain that their work establishes the city's posterity, critics argue that preservationists simply impede necessary growth in an expanding city.

City Council to Hold Hearing on Potential Underground Railroad Link

Monday, April 30, 2007 | The Real Deal | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

City Council is set to hold a hearing tomorrow on the disputed decision to seize a series of buildings which may be historically linked to the Underground Railroad through eminent domain. The Economic Development Corporation determined that the story is inaccurate and that the buildings should not be preserved, but advocates have been attempting to prevent their destruction. An underground parking lot is currently planned for the site.

Developers Look to Transform New York's Armories

Wednesday, April 25, 2007 | The Real Deal | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The twenty National Guard armories scattered around New York City are now becoming potentially attractive sites for development as several planned redevelopments at a select few of the sites might serve as blueprints for future work. As the National Guard only uses six of the armories, the other four have lain largely in disuse, and the large buildings could be adapted for a variety of uses. For example, the 575,000 square-foot Kingsbridge Armory redevelopment will include a new public school, a YMCA, a retail area and department store, a movie theater, a parking garage, and up to 25,000 square feet of community space. The Fourteenth Regiment Armory in Brooklyn is scheduled to open as an athletic complex this September, including spaces for basketball, gymnastics, tennis, and track and field. The armory will continue to house a women’s shelter which is currently in existence there. Proponents believe that using the armories for community purposes is one of the best ways to preserve the monuments.

Landmarking in Crown Heights Up for Vote

Tuesday, April 24, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The city's Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) is expected to vote today on whether or not to provide landmark status to 472 buildings of eclectic architectural style in the Crown Heights neighborhood of Brooklyn. Approval of the proposed landmarks would put the neighborhood's total stock of landmarked buildings to 1,800, a neighborhood figure only second to Park Slope. The potential landmarking in the northern, mostly African-American section of Crown Heights has inspired reflection on the neighborhood's historical racial tensions and current and future gentrification trends.

A Brooklyn Icon, the Clock Tower, Reappears

Friday, April 20, 2007 | The Real Deal | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The outcome of an $8 million project to preserve the historic clock tower at Brooklyn's tallest building, the Williamsburgh Savings Bank Tower, will soon be known when the building's owners finish the 512-foot tower's renovation in the summer. The clock tower, which was the largest clock in the world for a sizeable period of the 20th Century, will emerge from the scaffolding and netting that has covered it during the preservation effort. The building that houses the clock tower is currently being transformed into condominiums.

Eberhard Faber Pencil Buildings to be Considered for Landmark Status

Wednesday, April 18, 2007 | Curbed | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Landmarks Preservation Commission is considering landmark status for the Eberhard Faber Pencil buildings in Greenpoint. The proposed Eberhard Faber Pencil District includes five historic buildings, but would not affect several others which have already been demolished or have planned renovations. Along with the Domino Sugar Plant, the Eberhard buildings are one of the largest remaining industrial structures along the stretch of waterfront.

Manhattan House Being Considered for Landmark Status

Sunday, April 15, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Landmarks Preservation Committee and local community board are considering landmark status for Manhattan House, a striking modern apartment building whose original unique characteristic was its white self-cleaning brick exterior. Preservationists are hopeful that landmark status will grant the building some long-deserved respect, and residents hopeful that it will force owners to maintain certain desired features as the building is currently undergoing a conversion to condominiums. While many buildings copied the Manhattan House’s white brick façade, supporters of granting the designation believe this was the first and one of the best examples of the trend.

Historical Claim to Underground Railroad Rejected in Brooklyn

Friday, April 13, 2007 | Courier-Life Publications | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The consulting group AKRF, acting on behalf of the city, published a report that rejects the claims of residents of 223-225 Duffield Street in Brooklyn that the fugitive slave network used passage underneath their homes. The claim, which the petitioners hoped would lead to landmark status and a possible museum in the future, is inconclusive according to the report. While the city stands by the report, property owners on Duffield Street believe that the report was "doctored" so that the city can go ahead with their plan to develop Downtown Brooklyn without interruption.

"Sensitive Building Policy" Questioned in Court

Thursday, April 12, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Frustrated preservationists are confronting an unusual city policy by taking the battle to court, asking a judge to overturn the practice of keeping blueprints confidential on “sensitive” buildings without consent from the owners. The “sensitive building policy” was intended to heighten building security after September 11th by restricting access to blueprints of certain buildings. Blueprints can still be obtained, but only by requesting them from the owner. Preservationists believe the blueprints are necessary to rally support against projects which could destroy landmarks.

Meatpacking District Designated a Historic Place

Thursday, April 12, 2007 | The Real Deal | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Meatpacking District has received approval for designation as a Historic Place on the State and National Register of Historic Places. The designation was granted due to the significance of the area as a commercial hub. The designation allows property owners who preserve buildings to receive additional tax breaks or grants.

More Building in Brooklyn, More Landmarks Under Pressure

Friday, April 06, 2007 | Municipal Art Society | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

This report by the Municipal Arts Society (MAS) studies the relationship between the record number of demolition permits issued in 2006 for the borough of Brooklyn with the ten areas of rezoning that the Bloomberg Administration has generated. The MAS believes that historical landmarks in Brooklyn are in critical need of preservation as the "building boom" continues in the borough. In 2005 alone the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce estimated that planned redevelopment in the borough reached 13 million square feet. With both demolition and building permits on the rise, who will protect Brooklyn's historical landmarks?

Landmarking Considered for Morningside Park

Tuesday, April 03, 2007 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The historical Morningside Park, the last collaboration of famed landscape architects Frederick Law Olmsted, Jacob Ranmold, and Calvert Vaux, is being considered for landmark status. A coalition of Community Board 9, the civic group Friends of Morningside Park, and Assemblyman Danny O'Donnell praised news of the impending landmark process. Landmark status, if approved, would guarantee that no new development occurs in the park space. The Landmark Preservation Commission (LPC) will consider the landmark petition in three phases, beginning with a public hearing on April 10 and a vote on the matter by 11 commissioners.

Greater Focus on Relgious Sites as Historic Landmarks?

Monday, March 26, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

With the recent landmarking of several historic churches, preservationists are hoping that the Landmark Preservation Commission is making more of a concerted effort to protect to the city’s churches. Traditionally, the city had avoided landmarking sites of religious worship unless requested to do so by the institution in an effort to avoid separation of church and state issues. Recent demolitions and threatened sales of several churches may have added pressure to landmark the sites. The Landmark Preservation Commission suggested that it has not changed its policy, although the president of Manhattan stated that landmarking religious sites of historic significance would be a priority.

Proposed Bill to Close Loopholes in Landmark Protection Process?

Sunday, March 25, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

City Council has been asked to consider a bill proposed by Councilmember Mendez to close a suggested loophole in the landmark process. Currently, building owners that receive permits for building modifications prior to receiving landmark status may proceed with the accepted modifications, even if it destroys the feature that was meant to be protected as a landmark. The bill will require suspension of previously received permits and permanently stop the work if it has not substantially progressed. Additionally, the bill requires communication between the Landmarks Preservation Commissions and the Buildings Department. The Landmark Commission believes that the situations that this bill is attempting to prevent is rare, and has pointed out that the Buildings Department is already required to hold any permits on buildings that the Landmarks commission is considering for forty days.

Brooklyn Landmarks Wish List

Friday, March 23, 2007 | Courier-Life Publications | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Four Borough Neighborhood Preservation Alliance (FBNPA) has generated a wish list of 18 buildings and nine historic districts in Brooklyn that it would like to gain acknowledgement for from the Landmarks Preservation Commission. The chosen sites are diverse in location and nature, varying from Jackie Robinson’s former home in East Flatbush to several structures in Gravesend that are hundreds of years old.

Setbacks For Duffield Street Residents

Friday, March 23, 2007 | Carrol Gardens/Cobble Hill Courier | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Several residents of Duffield Street in Brooklyn, who claim that their homes were part of the Underground Railroad, have been rebuffed by consulting firm AKRF in seeking confirmation that their homes were a part of the historical network. Their homes have been targeted for demolition to make way for the construction of the Starwood Aloft Hotel.

Meeting of the Manhattan Preservationists

Friday, March 23, 2007 | The Villager | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer convened an assembly of leading historical preservationists throughout Manhattan last week to discuss the state of preservation in the borough as well as needed reforms. There was general consensus on the need for city agencies to work more effectively together, better coordinating the work of City Planning, Department of Buildings, and the Landmarks Preservation Commission. Another issue included the reluctance of many religious communities to seek preservation status for aging sacred structures because of a community need for revenue and space. The group also praised the bill introduced in the City Council by member Rosie Mendez that would prevent continued construction work on a building receiving a permit but not yet subject to landmark review.

Council Considers Bill to Save Potentially Landmarked Buildings

Wednesday, March 14, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

City Council Member Rosie Mendez proposed a bill that would give the city's Department of Buildings the power to revoke building permits for properties that are recently given landmark status or have the potential to be considered landmarks in the future. Many believe the bill is vital in the city where it is common practice for developers of recently acquired properties to begin renovation on buildings with potential landmark status before the city's Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) can even consider their status. While the LPC already reviews applications to build or renovate on properties with existing landmark status, the commission does not have the power to consider properties where developers have permits for buildings that do not have landmark status. According to the NY Sun, about 2.3% of the property in the city has landmark status.

Wall Street Historic District Celebrates Architecture and History

Monday, March 05, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Thirty-six blocks around Wall Street have been designated as the federal Wall Street Historic District as of this morning. The designation was celebrated at the Federal Hall National Memorial, one of the unique buildings in the new historic district. The area is considered historically important both because of the existing unique architecture and history as the center of the U.S. financial industry. The designation may allow the district to qualify for tax benefits and preservation grants for certain buildings.

A Call for More Landmarks in Queens

Friday, January 19, 2007 | Queens Chronicle | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

This piece by the Queens Chronicle advocates for the use of landmark designations to preserve historical neighborhoods in Queens, like Sunnyside Gardens, from the continued growth of commercial and residential real estate development. Citing the borough’s lack of landmarking relative to Manhattan and Brooklyn, the Chronicle argues

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