No Smooth Sailing at Meeting on Seaport

More than 350 turned out to hear a presentation from the Howard Hughes Corporation about its plan to redevelop the South Street Seaport site, where it leases land from the city.

The developer hopes to erect a 42-story luxury high rise tower, and would also build 50 to 60 units of affordable housing at an off site location. The sliver-style skyscraper was originally proposed at 52 stories, but the company reduced the proposed height as a concession to opponents. However, opponents say the skinny high rise would still be too tall, and out of step with historic neighborhood.

"If the building were to come down, we would not be in a position to offer as many benefits," said David Weinreb, CEO of the Howard Hughes Corporation.

Residents fear the tall tower would eviscerate views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the East River.

"When I look at this [proposal] I really get the feeling of Las Vegas," said Paul Hovitz, a Community Board 1 member. "I don't get a lot of feeling of the old seaport."

A good portion of the crowd wore yellow and blue t-shirts provided by the pro-development group Friends of the Seaport.

"Following the public hearing, all are welcome to a skating party at the South Street Seaaport Rink after the meeting," read the group's webpage. "Complimentary skating, drinks and bites (at Ambrose Hall) - if you wear your shirt!"

The prospect of a new investment in the Seaport is appealing to some proponents.

"Ever since I can remember, that South Street Seaport as beautiful and historic and iconic as it is, it’s never really worked, I dare say," said Ann Kayman, a local small business owner.

Area Councilwoman Margaret Chin and Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer reiterated their opposition to the project. Both are part of the Seaport Working Group, a community group formed in response to the original redevelopment proposal.

Community Board 1 will hold the second part of its landmarks committee meeting in January. The proposal would them head go the Landmarks Preservation Commission, and then through the city's land use review process, ultimately culminating with a vote from the city council.