The fate of the Austin, Nichols & Co. Warehouse on Kent Avenue in Williamsburg will be decided at a Landmarks Preservation Commission hearing today. Built by architect Cass Gilbert (of Woolworth building fame), the building is owned by Moishe Kestenbaum. Kestenbaum wants to build a large rooftop addition and convert the three-part windows to single windows. Council Member David Yassky has been bought off, allegedly, by a $335,000 contribution Kenstenbaum is making to a fund for affordable housing. The hearing at 1 Centre Street, 9th Floor North at 3 pm today. Those in favor of the Landmark status are encouraged to show up at the hearing to show their support.
Austin, Nichols & Co. Warehouse [Gotham Gazette]