Landmark: August Update

MMPCIA will strengthen collaborations with organizations like the Landmarks Preservation Commission and the Historic District Council to achieve our preservation goals.

Over the past 24 months our neighborhood has witnessed landmarks being demolished. A change to our historic landscape is not something we take lightly. MMPCIA has fought for preservation since its inception. The challenges we face are advocating for preservation while recognizing the layers of decisions in private property, Community Boards, Landmark Preservation Commission and The Department of Buildings. 

After the latest buildings were demolished on west 119 Street (66-68 West 119 Street) MMPCIA has been in close contact with the Landmarks Preservation Commission and the Historic District council. We learned there are plans that will be submitted this fall for a structure in line with the existing buildings. The process is lengthy and before any construction begins there will be a presentation to Community Board 10 which is open to the public. 

There are a few other buildings that too have been vacant and abandoned for decades which we are being informed on. Ultimately if a building is deemed to be a danger to the neighboring facade or in its entirety, the department of Buildings may demolish. 

We understand there are many questions, we have them too; how some buildings are slated for demolition and some are not. Or why not utilize resources allocated toward demolition toward restoration.We continue to inquire and keep our relationships strong with NYC Landmarks Preservation and the Historic District Council to build partnerships and advocacy. 

We will continue to provide information on resources to historic homeowners. 

Most recently we featured NY State tax benefits for historic Homes in our neighborhood. Our neighborhood continues to be a beautiful place and we care deeply about the landscape legacy we are leaving behind.