Re the letter “Landmarking in the city has gone too far.” Where to begin? The writer dismisses the fact that less than 5% of the entire city is landmarked, saying only Manhattan counts. Developers have been very active in Brooklyn and Queens and are looking at portions of the Bronx. They have found opportunities outside Manhattan. The City Landmarks Commission says that 95% of submissions for permits are approved at a staff level. If a proposal rises to a public hearing before the commission, there is no shortage of architects and other experts who regularly appear there.
The Landmarks Conservancy has now reached some $50 million in loans and grants to landmark property owners, along with thousands of hours of pro bono technical help. Our Sacred Sites grants to up to $75,000 and often inspire additional financial support. We know exactly what these restoration projects can cost and are glad to provide assistance.
There are federal and state tax credits for commercial property owners and state tax credits for individuals in qualifying census tracts. Should there be more on all levels of government? We’d love to see it. And we lobby in Washington for it every year.
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The attacks on landmarking haven’t changed in the 50-plus years of the city’s landmarks law. But the benefits are there to see for anyone willing to look.
Peg Breen
President
The New York Landmarks Conservancy
Re the letter “Landmarking in the city has gone too far.” Where to begin? The writer dismisses the fact that less than 5% of the entire city is landmarked, saying only Manhattan counts. Developers have been very active in Brooklyn and Queens and are looking at portions of the Bronx. They have found opportunities outside Manhattan. The City Landmarks Commission says that 95% of submissions for permits are approved at a staff level. If a proposal rises to a public hearing before the commission, there is no shortage of architects and other experts who regularly appear there.
The Landmarks Conservancy has now reached some $50 million in loans and grants to landmark property owners, along with thousands of hours of pro bono technical help. Our Sacred Sites grants to up to $75,000 and often inspire additional financial support. We know exactly what these restoration projects can cost and are glad to provide assistance.
There are federal and state tax credits for commercial property owners and state tax credits for individuals in qualifying census tracts. Should there be more on all levels of government? We’d love to see it. And we lobby in Washington for it every year.
The attacks on landmarking haven’t changed in the 50-plus years of the city’s landmarks law. But the benefits are there to see for anyone willing to look.
Peg Breen
President
The New York Landmarks Conservancy
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