Landmarks group eyes NYC South Street Seaport plan

Landmarks officials are taking their first public look at a proposal to overhaul Manhattan’s historic maritime-themed South Street Seaport area.

The city Landmarks Preservation Commission held a hearing on the project Tuesday but wasn’t expected to vote. The commission’s approval is needed but isn’t the final word.

Chicago-based General Growth Properties wants to move a 1907 building, demolish newer structures and add a small hotel and new retail space on the city-owned property. The plan also includes a 42-story skyscraper, but it falls outside the historic district and the landmarks commission’s purview.

The developer sees the current seaport area as a shopping mall that doesn’t engage with its lower Manhattan surroundings. But a local city councilman has expressed reservations about the size of the tower.

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On the Net:

South Street Seaport plan: http://www.thenewseaport.com/

Landmarks Preservation Commission: http://www.nyc.gov/html/lpc/

 

Associated Press

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