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celebrities8h ago
Arts organisation enlists celebrities in fight to save Manhattan church
- The Center at West Park mobilized celebrities, led by Mark Ruffalo, to oppose the church’s demolition plans.
- West Park Presbyterian Church faces demolition despite landmark status, with repairs estimated between $9.1m and $26.6m.
- The church argues that demolition is the only option due to financial hardship and landmark constraints.
- The Landmarks Preservation Commission has been a central factor in the church’s legal appeals.
- The Center at West Park was evicted in 2024 after years of court battles and has since moved programming nearby.
- Prominent actors reported attending hearings to support preservation efforts.
- The church’s developer proposed a mixed-use project including a luxury condo tower and air rights sales.
- The church argues air rights sales could fund repairs, but supporters warn of higher returns from leasing.
- The building is noted for its 1890 Romanesque Revival design and historic Tiffany window.
- The public campaign emphasizes the church’s role in culture and community since its founding.
- Hearings debated whether the building’s preservation serves the public interest.
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