The New York State Supreme Court’s Appellate Division has overturned a previous ruling on the residential project at 250 Water Street, invalidating Judge Arthur Engoron’s decision which questioned the Landmarks Preservation Commission’s (LPC) approval of development plans in the South Street Seaport historic district. A lawsuit led by Historic Districts Council argued that proposed building exceeded height restrictions, however appellate court concluded LPC’s approval was justified and dismissed claims of a “quid pro quo” arrangement with developer.
This ruling paves way for 399 housing units to be developed on site, ending its longstanding use as parking lot since 1977. Fried Frank represented developer with team led by Janice Mac Avoy, Justin J. Santolli and Nicholas Winkley – allowing project to move forward towards completion.