And developers win again

Yesterday, a City Council subcommittee voted down by a 4-1 count a landmarking proposal for 135 Bowery, an 1817 federal style row house. First American International Bank, who owns the property, plans to tear down the house, which, granted, isn't in the best shape, to toss up a seven-story commercial building. District 1 City Councilmember Margaret Chin was the deciding factor. She was initially for landmarking the building, but later changed her mind because she was "swayed by [the owner's] offer to create affordable commercial space for small businesses in Chinatown," as The Lo-Down noted.

City Council votes on the issue next Wednesday, but there's no chance without Chin's support.

And has anyone actually seen the bank's plans?

Per Save the Lower East Side:

The bank that owns 135 Bowery hasn't submitted its affordable intention in writing. The bank hasn't shown any affordable rent rates; the bank hasn't produced any legally binding contract for this promised affordable commercial space or any indication how long the leases would remain affordable, or even any binding document whatsoever showing their intent. All we have is the word of the bank. (What do you think that's worth?)

Any bets that 135 Bowery becomes luxury housing?

Coverage:
The Lo-Down
Curbed
WNYC

Last chance tomorrow for historic 135 Bowery

From the EV Grieve inbox via the East Village Community Coalition...

Dear neighbor,

135 Bowery, between Grand and Broome, needs your help. In June, this 1817 Federal-era rowhouse was designated an individual landmark by the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) but the future of the building is still uncertain. The next step in the process is tomorrow's City Council vote.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Call Councilmember Margaret Chin's office and tell her to support landmark designation. The community wants it and the City has deemed the building a landmark!

Councilmember Margaret Chin
212-587-3159

Please attend the hearing tomorrow, September 15, at 11 AM, 250 Broadway, Committee Room, 16th Floor. Be sure to bring valid ID.

If you're attending the meeting, please let me know. If you're unavailable, please pick up the phone and call Councilmember Chin's office right away.

Sincerely,

Kurt Cavanaugh
Managing Director
director.evccnyc@gmail.com

Read more background here ... and here...