New York Building Congress supports conversion of garage to housing at 160 West Tenth Street

The Manhattan Community Board 2's Landmarks Committee meeting on May 12, 2025, highlighted significant developments regarding the proposed conversion of a parking garage into residential units at 160 West Tenth Street. The meeting featured discussions on the project's implications for local housing and community dynamics.

A key point of discussion was the installation of scaffolding on the garage, which serves as a mock-up to illustrate the height and volume of the proposed building addition. This structure is required by the Landmarks Commission and will remain in place until the project receives approval, with a public hearing scheduled for June 17. The current plan indicates a reduction in parking spaces from 200 to accommodate three new residential units, raising concerns about the impact on local parking availability.

Support for the project was voiced by Frank Clark, director of government relations at the New York Building Congress, who emphasized the importance of adaptive reuse in addressing the city's housing crisis. He argued that converting the garage into housing aligns with community needs and promotes sustainable urban development while preserving the neighborhood's historic character.

However, community members expressed apprehension about the ongoing trend of converting garages into residential spaces. Eli Gessner, a long-time resident, voiced concerns that such transformations could diminish the availability of essential parking in the area, reflecting a broader anxiety about the changing landscape of their neighborhood.

The meeting underscored the balancing act between development and community preservation, as stakeholders navigate the complexities of urban growth in Manhattan. As the project moves forward, the outcomes of the upcoming public hearing will be crucial in determining the future of this site and its impact on the local community.