In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around architectural modifications and community feedback regarding a new development project. Key points included concerns about compliance with access requirements, maintenance, and the impact of rooftop installations on neighboring properties.
The meeting revealed that the proposed bulkhead does not meet the necessary clearance from lot lines, which must be at least 10 feet away. This raised questions about the placement of kitchen makeup air handling units, with suggestions to relocate them to the roof while ensuring they do not obstruct neighboring windows. The size of the equipment was a significant topic, with officials noting that the scale is larger than typical restaurant units due to the specific needs of the building's food service program.
Public testimony highlighted mixed opinions on the project. Zeynep Turan from the Friends of the Upper East Side expressed support for certain design elements, such as a new decorative marble door entry and the replacement of a window with an egress door for compliance. However, she criticized the rooftop additions as bulky and visually intrusive, calling for a reduction in their scale.
John Graham from the Victorian Society of New York raised historical concerns, questioning the architectural style of the branch bank being built. He noted that the design, reminiscent of an 18th-century townhouse, diverges from the more traditional neo-classical style typically associated with banks of that era. Graham emphasized the historical significance of the design choices made by the bank's vice president, which aimed to reflect the elegance of the period.
The meeting concluded without a definitive resolution, as further discussions and adjustments to the project are anticipated in response to community feedback and regulatory requirements.