Landmarks Preservation Commission Drops Proposal to Remove More Than 100 Historic Structures from NYC's List of Potential Landmarks, Including 5 Broadway Theaters

The New York Times reported today that the Landmarks Preservation Commission has withdrawn its proposal to remove more than 100 of New York City's historic structures, including 5 Broadway theaters, from its oversight due to opposition from local politicians and advocacy groups.

Meenakshi Srinivasan, chairwoman of the Landmarks Preservation Commission, initially explained that her proposal would allow the agancy to focus on new matters. The buildings are part of a list of properties under consideration for landmark status by the commission, however, many of the buildings have spent over 50 years on the list. While they have not yet been deemed landmarks, no property on the list can be altered without approval by the commission. They range from relatively unknown structures to famous buildings like Bergdorf Goodman and President Chester A. Arthur's house in Manhattan.

Srinivasan's proposal was to be up for vote by the commission on Dec. 9, but following outcry form preservationists, the Commission will allow more time for all sides to voice their opinions before deciding to trim its list. Srinivasan said in a statement, "We remain committed to making the Landmarks Commission more effective and responsive in its work, and clearing a backlog of items."

Read the full New York Times article here.