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Plymouth Church wins approval to install rooftop HVAC units and screening to modernize buildings and remove window ACs
Summary
The Landmarks Preservation Commission unanimously approved rooftop mechanical equipment and enclosures at Plymouth Church's campus at 75 Hicks Street to modernize HVAC across the complex and allow removal of disruptive window units.
The Landmarks Preservation Commission voted 7‑0 on March 4 to allow rooftop HVAC equipment and screening at Plymouth Church of the Pilgrims’ campus in the Brooklyn Heights Historic District, saying the applicants had located and designed the units to minimize visibility while enabling removal of window air conditioners from the historic facades.
Molly Martinez, the church’s executive administrator, told the commission that interior temperatures reached as high as 116 degrees during recent summers, halting children’s programs, tours and rentals. Architect Tom Feneman presented a campus plan that locates several rooftop units hidden behind a standing‑seam copper screen, and three units in a playground area to be screened by a cedar fence.
Feneman said two rooftop units near the 75 Hicks stair bulkhead would be invisible from the public way, while the gymnasium rooftop would require a copper‑faced acoustic screen to reduce sound and visibility. An acoustic consultant recommended sound control and the design team added screening on three sides of the large gym rooftop unit. The project would also allow the church to remove numerous damaging window units from primary facades.
Judy Stanton, speaking for the Brooklyn Heights Association, said the organization supports the church’s modernization and commended the project team’s consideration of alternatives; the association urged careful review of future visible equipment. Brooklyn Community Board 2 recommended approval and encouraged ongoing communication with the Brooklyn Heights Association and review of a future campus master plan.
Commissioners praised the applicant’s effort to minimize visibility and to replace window AC units. Commissioner Chapin said the proposal “will allow the removal of window units…disrupting the historic fenestration pattern.” Commissioner Chapin moved approval and Commissioner Chen seconded; the vote was unanimous.
The commission found the rooftop units would be partially screened by existing balustrades and that the standing‑seam metal enclosure will harmonize with the gymnasium roof and complex roofscape. The commission's approval allows the work to proceed with staff oversight on final materials and installation details.
