STAND for St. Michael's

As the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) celebrates its Golden Anniversary (1965-2015), it has a new Chair, Meenakshi Srinivassan, at the helm.  One of her initiatives towards streamlining the landmarks process was to "de-calendar" 95 sites that have languished on the LPC docket for over five years˗ removing them from consideration and setting advocacy efforts back to square one.  The primary obstacles to landmark designation are political interference, and owner opposition, overriding the stated purpose of the Landmarks Law, which states that "the protection, enhancement, perpetuation and use of [landmarks]...a public necessity regained in the interest of the health, prosperity, safety and welfare of the people of New York".

In swift response to this unprecedented act, city-wide advocates challenged the decision, and as a result of an aggressive campaign, each site will be heard!  The LPC has promised a final decision on each item by January of 2016. 

The two Upper West Side Locations are St. Michael's Church Complex and the IRT Powerhouse.  

Both sites are worthy landmarks and need your support!  Please write to the LPC.  Here's a sample letter for St. Michael's Church:

Dear Chair Srinivassan,

I urge the Landmarks Preservation Commission to designate architect Robert Gibson's 1890 Romanesque Revival ensemble of St. Michael's Church, 1896-7 Parish House and 1912-13 Rectory, which exhibit Gibson's facility to re-interpret different elements of a style into unique and beautiful compositions.

The building's many remarkable features have been carefully maintained, especially its series of signature Tiffany windows.  The union of art glass, acoustics, and style have been a proven success throughout the 125-year history of the church building on this site, working in concert to provide a picturesque campus of variety and delight with the adjoining Parish House and Rectory. 

Please designate this neighborhood anchor—St. Michael's Church, Parish House and Rectory—in totality! 

Sincerely, 

Name 

Address

You can email letters to the LPC at: backlog95@lpc.nyc.gov

                     and please cc LW! at: landmarkwest@landmarkwest.org
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READ the National Register of Historic Places Report 
READ the LPC's FACT SHEET for St. Michael's Church Complex
READ the LPC's RESEARCH FILE on St. Michael's Church Complex 
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To support LANDMARK WEST!'s efforts, make a fully tax-deductible contribution to LANDMARK WEST!, designated for "Preserve St. Michael's"!  Click here for options to give online or by mail. 

As thanks, you will receive a 1-year gift LW! membership with benefits that include discounted or free admission to our public programs and more. 

Email us at: landmarkwest@landmarkwest.org for further details!