Developing Tribeca

Tribeca is a desirable place to live, work and visit in large part because of the historic character and scale of its architecture.  Twenty years ago, Tribeca residents helped preserve that scale and character by pressing the city’s Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) to designate Tribeca as a single, large historic district. LPC instead designated four separate districts.  Although this was a victory by any measure, important parts of our neighborhood were left out of these districts.  Moreover, zoning rules have allowed new towers to press in on the very borders of our old blocks. Poorly designed infill construction has also insulted many a block’s historic character.

Slowly but surely, huge buildings and inappropriate rooftop additions box us in and darken our streets.  Over-scaled development puts intense pressure on Tribeca’s infrastructure: Side streets become thoroughfares, traffic clogs, noise from commercial equipment worsens and the lurid signage of chain stores dominate the streetscape. Inevitably the areas inadequate public spaces fray and become overcrowded and Tribeca’s distinctive sense of place suffers steady erosion. The situation raises many questions.  When is the tipping point where Tribeca is lost beneath gigantic towers?  How can new construction be planned and designed to honor instead of bury our history?

What Happens When You Under-Designate a Historic District? The Case of Tribeca from Tribeca Trust on Vimeo.

Mission

The mission of Tribeca Trust is to educate the public about Tribeca’s history and architectural heritage and to mobilize residents and civic resources so as to preserve our neighborhood’s historic scale, to protect and enhance its architectural character, quality of life, economic vitality, and sense of place.

To this end, the organization may:

• Educate the public about Tribeca’s history and architectural heritage;
• Promote good stewardship of Tribeca’s historic districts, the expansion of their boundaries, and the strengthening o the rules that protect them;
• Convene meetings to deepen public discussion over the planning, development and restoration of particular lots, buildings, blocks, streets, and storefronts – within and adjacent to Tribeca;
• Collaborate with like-minded organizations and individuals on issues that affect Tribeca and other similar neighborhoods beyond;
• Provide opportunities for residents of all ages to participate in various aspects of the mission; Raise funds for these activities as needed;
• Any other activities consistent with the organization’s mission.