Islamic Community Center clears major hurdle

The Landmarks Preservation Commission ruled today, as expected, against designating 45-47 Park Place as an individual New York City landmark, clearing the way for plans to move forward on the Islamic Community Center planned for the site, two blocks north of Ground Zero. The center — formerly known as the Cordoba House, but now called Park51 — is being developed by Sharif El-Gamal, and has been the subject of heated controversy since its inception. “From the racist rants of a discredited Tea Party leader to the cynical posturing of a floundering gubernatorial candidate, this process has been manipulated by those looking to get headlines and score political points,” said Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer in a statement announcing his support. “What we really need is a dialogue that facilitates community healing. Real New Yorkers need to be consulted as this project moves forward, and that includes families who lost their loved ones on 9/11.” TRD