Preserve the Powerhouse!
The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission recently announced that on Tuesday, July 14, 2009, it will hold a public hearing to consider designating the former Interborough Rapid Transit Powerhouse as an Individual NYC Landmark.
The Powerhouse stands as a majestic symbol of the City Beautiful era, designed by Stanford White of McKim, Mead & White and constructed in 1904 to provide electricity for New York's first subway system. In all of its Beaux-Arts glory, it occupies a full block on the West Side of Manhattan (11th to 12th Avenues, 58th to 59th Streets), recalling such magnificent monuments as the New York Public Library (Carrere & Hastings, 1897-1911), the Metropolitan Museum of Art (1894-1902) and the late great Pennsylvania Station (McKim, Mead & White, 1910 - demolished in 1963).
For more information, please click here.
NOTE: THIS EVENT HAS PASSED
WHAT: Preservation Lobby Day
WHERE: Steps of City Hall
WHEN: Wednesday, May 6, 2009 – a press conference will begin at approximately 12 noon, but please plan to arrive by 11:45 to show critical mass
The preservation community will be out in force to support increased funding for the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) and to promote the themes outlined below. **Please let us know if you or your organization would like to sign on as a co-sponsor of the Platform!** A copy of the full Platform is attached.
"Preservation is Sustainability" Reuse and rehabilitation of older buildings should be incorporated into the City's planning process.
"Preservation is Neighborhoods" Protecting neighborhood character is a cornerstone of the City's long-term viability.
"Preservation is an Economic Catalyst" Preservation raises property values, strengthens the city's tax base and enhances tourism. The City should support efforts to expand Federal and State historic preservation tax credits and enhance the J-51 tax abatement program for landmarked properties.
"Preservation is Historic Religious Properties" A special task force should study feasible ways to support these important structures, which anchor communities and provide needed social service programs.
"Preservation is an effective Landmarks Commission" Proper staffing levels are needed to speed LPC approval of appropriate renovations and development, which stimulate economic activity.
For more information, please click here.
LANDMARK WEST! Launches Online Database:
Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Upper West Side Landmarks!
For years, Upper West Siders have been asking LANDMARK WEST! questions like...
Who was the architect of my building?
What style is it?
When was it built?
Where can I find Art-Deco architecture in our area?
How can I find out if my building is a Landmark?
Usually, LW! has the answers, but not always at our fingertips. Until now...
We are very proud to announce the official launch of the Upper West Side Landmarks Online Database!
