Broadway Commercial Building
On Broadway in the West 70s a solid 3-story structure is bookended between a 19-story Condominium and a 1920s multi-use building.
This trio share materials of steel, brick, stone and metal. However, the middle one has a colorful history as a Tammany Hall Democratic club, and a real estate office whose name is still seen at the cornice level. Learn more here.
The 3-story 1922 building has a configuration that doesn’t satisfy newer code requirements. The puzzle LFA solved had to do with previous DOB filings, unneeded for the Code that applies. Resolving work performed without a permit was our goal. Several studies later, after soliciting opinions from engineers and our expediter, LFA was able to close out applications and obtain an amended Certificate of Occupancy in 2018. This legalized the current retail use on the first floor.
Much of the facade work planned for 2019 has been completed. As you can see by the photos the metal window spandrels have been cleaned up and repainted. Repointing of the stone joints and caulking skyward-facing joints at the stone cornice will be complete in March of 2020. During the investigation and repair verification of the specific types of stone and metal were completed and a cost-effective recommendation was agreed. Paint and other materials will be tested for lead and asbestos. Although this small gem is not located in a Landmarks district, LFA recommends Landmarks-quality work practices for this special building.