Senator Hoylman Testimony in Favor of IRT Powerhouse and 138 Second Avenue Landmark Designation and Support of LPC Backlog Intiative

I commend the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) for undertaking the ambitious Backlog Initiative, which will give due consideration to the 95 inactive properties under its purview. Earlier this year, I submitted testimony opposing Intro. 775, a City Council bill which sought to address the backlog by establishing a strict timetable for LPC consideration, followed by a five year period during which a building or area would then be off limits for designation. While introduced with the good intention of simplifying the landmarks process, this bill would endanger buildings worthy of preservation as developers attempted to run out the clock on the LPC timeline. As an alternative to this bill, the LPC has voluntarily undertaken the tremendous task of reviewing all 95 properties and rendering designation decisions in coming months. I am paying close attention to the process and have submitted testimonies regarding 138 Second Avenue and the IRT Powerhouse at 820 12th Avenue, both properties in my district that warrant designation.