The Design Commission – Another Obscure, But Vital Agency?
The NYC Design Commission (formerly the Art Commission) is an 11-member, un-paid, Mayor-appointed group that must approve all structures placed “on or above” city property.
This relatively-obscure body (that is to say nearly completely unknown) can veto the design of everything from bus shelters to public art placed along the Park Avenue median. The Commission was established - ready for this – in 1898, long before zoning and any other significant controls on the design and massing of buildings in the City. (more…)
