Weekend Edition
High Society comes out in support of billionaire’s glass penthouse
It’s always fun when high-society players turn up at local city hearings — especially when they’re battling with the...
Landmarks Preservation Commission
About: The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission is the government agency that designates historic landmarks and districts for New York City.
Headquarters: New York City
Founded in: 1965
Founded by: Mayor Robert F. Wagner
Landmarks Preservation Commission Q&A
What is the Landmarks Preservation Commission known for?
The Landmarks Preservation Commission is known for its power to decide which New York areas, buildings, statues, and other landmarks can be designated ‘historic’ and therefore protected against demolition and certain changes. The Commission was established in 1965 and is made up of an 11-person board of experts and New York residents who are appointed by the mayor of New York. It was created to slow the pace of demolition of historic buildings. The inciting incident for the Commission's formation was the destruction of the original Penn Station, an architecturally significant building. The original Penn Station was demolished in 1963 to make way for the modern Madison Square Garden and new underground version of the station. This garnered outrage internationally and from New Yorkers.
Who runs the Landmarks Preservation Commission?
The Commission is decided by the mayor and therefore subject to change. As of November 2019, the members are Sarah Carroll (Chair), Frederick Bland (Vice-Chair), Diana Chapin, Wellington Chen, Michael Devonshire, Michael Goldblum, John Gustafsson, Anne Holford-Smith, Jeanne Lutfy, Adi Shamir-Baron, and Everardo Jefferson.
Why is the Landmarks Preservation Commission important to the real estate industry?
Since it has the power to deem certain buildings or areas “protected”, the Commission has the power to both increase the value and the restrictions on real estate. “Historic” designation can make a building or area more desirable, but it also comes with strict rules that can inhibit developers and landlords from making changes or improvements.
Want to learn more about the Landmarks Preservation Commission?
Check out our Top Stories below for TRD’s most up-to-date coverage of the Landmarks Preservation Commission.
Landmarks Preservation Commission Top Stories
June 11, 2019—It's official: The home of the Strand bookstore is now a historical site, and the owners are not happy.
February 12, 2019—The Landmarks Preservation Commission has approved the latest design proposal for renovating the iconic 37-story office tower designed by late architect Philip Johnson and John Burgee “with modifications,”
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