From the Episcopal Church:

New York City’s Landmarks Preservation Commission gave approval to General Theological Seminary (GTS) for the construction of a new seven-story mixed-use residential building on Ninth Avenue and a five-story administration building to be constructed on 20th Street in the Chelsea area of Manhattan. The decision, given at a public hearing on the morning of September 18, allows the seminary to proceed with the demolition of the present building. Construction on a new building is expected to begin early in 2008.

Following the GTS’ submission of initial designs this past summer and the commission’s first public hearing in June, changes were requested involving the diminished use of glass in favor of an increase in the use of brick. The resulting changes were well-received by the commission, which voted unanimously to approve the design for the new Ninth Avenue building created by Polshek Partnership. The commission also approved a new five-story administration building on 20th Street, designed by architects Beyer Blinder Belle.

Several members of the commission specifically commended the architects for their sensitivity in creating a high-caliber, modern building that is in keeping with its historic surroundings. They also spoke highly of the seminary’s responsiveness to the surrounding community. The Brodsky Organization will continue as the seminary’s partner in the development of the Ninth Avenue property. In addition to the income-producing residential units, which will generate approximately $30 million for the seminary, the building will contain a new state-of-the-art library on the first floor and on two floors below grade.

“We’re delighted by this decision,” said Ward B. Ewing, dean and president of GTS. “It marks the end of an approval process that has been long and challenging but one in which the seminary has been responsive to the concerns of its neighbors while being true to its educational mission.” An earlier 15-floor plan had been proposed by the seminary but had met with neighborhood opposition. The approved “as of right” structure on Ninth Avenue does not require the seminary to seek a waiver of the 75-foot height limitation in the Chelsea zoning. The Commission’s decision allows the seminary to demolish the current building on Ninth Avenue, known as Sherrill Hall and, once building permits are received, to construct a new building on the site according to the approved design.

© 2007 Episcopal Life Online