Old P.S. 64 Wins Unanimous Landmarks Approval!
We are thrilled to report that the old P.S. 64 building at 605 East 9th Street received unanimous approval for  landmark designation yesterday from the Landmarks Preservation Commission. The building faced the threat of demolition by the current owner and replacement with a scheme for a 19-story “dorm-for-hire.” GVSHP had joined local community groups like the East Village Community Coalition and local leaders like current City Councilmember Rosie Mendez, former City Councilmember Margarita Lopez, Congressmember Nydia Velazquez, State Senator Martin Connor, and many others in opposing the illegal “dorm-for-hire” scheme (which was eventually blocked – see here) and in pushing for landmark designation of the site.
GVSHP was a strong supporter of landmarking the building because of its incredible architectural and cultural significance. But we also felt it was critical that the LPC stand up to the owner’s threat to scalp the building of all architectural detail if landmark designation was approved (building permits were issued which would allow exterior changes to the building before the landmarking process began). Now that the building has been designated, it remains to be seen if the owner will follow through on this threat of architectural vandalism. GVSHP will continue to closely monitor the situation. Click here for more information.
Next: 03/26/08 |
