We’re thrilled to report that last night Community Board 2’s Landmarks Committee voted to urge the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission to calendar, or begin the process of formal consideration of, the proposed South of Union Square Historic District. The Community Board reported receiving 163 messages in support of designation vs. five against, and at last night’s hearing, public testimony unanimously supported designation. The resolution now goes to the full board for approval, which meets on Thursday, November 19 at 6:30 pm, where support is essential to ensure approval.  

Village Preservation has been advocating for a historic district to protect the special history, architecture, and character of this unprotected area since 2018. It’s garnered tremendous support from historians, civil rights groups, arts scholars, preservation organizations, and average New Yorkers, but the City has resisted considering designation, as new landmark designations in the City have dropped to all-time lows. The planned destruction of historically significant sites like 86 University Place has galvanized efforts to get the City to change course and protect this area. 

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