Landmarks Commission approves taupe repaint for Macombs Dam Bridge

The Landmarks Preservation Commission on Dec. 16, 2025 approved repainting the Macombs Dam Bridge in a taupe color similar to the Willis Avenue Bridge, concluding the finish best balances historic precedent and maintenance needs.

Deputy Director of Urban Design Nick Benotti of the New York City Department of Transportation presented two options after taking the commission's prior direction and surveying paint choices across the city's landmark bridges. Benotti said the options were a darker George Washington Bridge gray and a Willis Avenue taupe that he described as “very, very close to the original paint color” identified in a prior analysis. "We went and took a look at all of the individually landmark bridges within the city" he said, noting the team reviewed procurement and maintenance considerations for each option.

Commissioners asked how the proposed colors relate to the palette of other Harlem River bridges and debated which choice best preserves the Macombs Dam Bridge's distinctiveness. Several commissioners said the taupe better reflects historic paint analysis and is readily procurable for regular maintenance. Commissioner Convey moved to approve the taupe option, arguing the work "will help to protect this steel and iron structure from corrosion and aid in the long term preservation of this individual landmark." The motion passed 9–0.

Why it matters: the repaint is a preservation action on an individual landmark built in the 1890s; commissioners cited both historic paint analysis and practical maintenance procurement in reaching their unanimous decision. DOT said the approved finish will be procured for regular maintenance and will reduce deterioration risk.

What's next: staff will record the approval and DOT may begin procurement and scheduling of repainting consistent with the Commission's findings.