Series 1: Subject Files, 1972-2011, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
Series I includes correspondence, press releases, memorandum, minutes, articles, resolutions, newsletters, meeting notices, booklets, handbooks, brochures, pamphlets, journals, photographs, ephemera, maps, guides, and legal documents that were gathered and produced by De Saram as a result of her involvement in Tribeca community affairs. Many specific buildings, addresses, developers, and corporations are documented within these papers. New York City government departments including the Board of Standards and Appeals, the Landmarks Preservation Commission, the City Planning Commission, and the Department of Sanitation are also represented. More detailed information pertaining to topics, names, and places covered by each subheading can be found in the collection inventory scope and contents notes.
Arrangement
The series is arranged following an inventory list produced by De Saram that accompanied the collection. The topical subject headings listed on this document, reflecting her organizational schema, were retained for the Subject File subheadings. These subheadings are:
Landmarks Designation Research and Issues
TCA / NYC Zoning Changes and Battles
416-424 Washington Street
Tribeca Community Association Developer and Zoning Lawsuits
Shearson - American Express - City Planning Council Rezoning of Washington Market
Lower Manhattan Tribeca Reports and Plans
Traffic Studies, Sanitation Garage & Salt Facility, and Realize Hudson Rise Alternative Plan
Hudson River and Route 9A Development
Tribeca Community Association Quality of Life Issues – Lawsuits
Tribeca Parks Founded by Community
Texture of Tribeca Book
Tribeca Community Association (TCA) Papers
The files within each Series I subheading have been arranged by roughly descending bulk order, so that the files with the most material appear first within each subheading. The materials were received in labeled folders, often with notes about the contents written on the folder. These original notes are transcribed within the file's scope and contents note when they supplied information supplementary to the title. The folders are not archival, but have been retained since they are annotated by the creator. The original folders along with their contents were rehoused in archival folders as a precautionary measure against acid migration. As another preservation measure, the newsprint in each folder has been enclosed within archival paper slings to prevent it from damaging surrounding papers.
At the close of the series is a set of photographs received separately from the main body of the documents.
Landmarks Designation Research and Issues:
Landmarks Designation, 1984-2008, inclusive
LPC Buildings Department Forms, 1984-1986, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "Landmark Survey Forms - Data obtained from Municipal Archive files for Landmark Commission to designate Tribeca an historic district. Some data was from architect filings since there was no data available or required before 1890."
LPC Research Forms, 1985-1986, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "Research forms for LPC designator report. City of NY did not have records for buildings before 1869. Only records available were architectural reports. Found in the City archives in dead storage, They may not be available anymore."
Landmark Building Permits, 1989-2001, inclusive
LPC Tribeca Buildings Index, 1985, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Printout on fan-fold paper that includes building block, lot, style and architect. Listed in ascending geocode order.
LPC Tribeca Buildings Index, 1985, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Printouts and photocopies of fan-fold paper that includes building block, lot, style and architect. Listed in ascending block and lot order.
Landmark Support Letters, 1986-2002, inclusive
Tribeca West Historic District Designation Report, 1991 May, inclusive
Archaeological Historical Sensitivity Analysis Report, 1987-1988, inclusive
Tribeca North Historic Designation Report, 1992 December, inclusive
Tribeca South Historic District Designation Report, 1992 December, inclusive
Tribeca East Historic District Designation Report, 1992 December, inclusive
John Street / Maiden Lane Historic District, 1986-2003, inclusive
Sugar Warehouse (1 of 2 folders), 2000 January 12
Scope and Contents
Handwritten note on first page of document reads: "Sugar warehouse used for Confederate soldiers. Chains were placed in the walls. Some still remain."
Sugar Warehouse (2 of 2 folders) over-size, 2000 January 12
Scope and Contents
The Sugar Warehouse 79 Laight Street, New York NY. Site Plan and Zoning Analysis. Packet of architectural drawings and renderings.
Tribeca African American History, 1991-2006, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Contains handwritten notes, ephemera from the Wesley Chapel Museum, and single articles related to the African Burial Ground historic designation by the LPC in 1993, Sojourner Truth, and Seneca Village.
Royal Bank of Canada, 1991, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Note on documents reads: "Royal Bank of Canada to construct an office building, 68-76 William Street".
LPC Public Hearings, 1986-1994, inclusive
Prince of Wales, 1987-1988, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "Copy of US speech on preservation. Sent to Tribeca Community Association".
Mathew Brady, 1991, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "359 Broadway Studio. First photo of Abraham Lincoln. '359 Brady's Gallery' sign painted over in 1988. Petition signed by P.S.234 students to save building. They won."
Miscellaneous Landmark Pictures, 1983-1989, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Photocopies of historic drawings and modern photographs.
Anthony Tung, Landmark Commissioner, 1988-1990, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "Anthony Tung, Landmark Commissioner 1979-1988. Not re-appointed by Mayor David Dinkins.
Margot Gayle, Cast Iron, 1978-1993, inclusive
Badger Catalogue, undated, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "Badger Catalogue, Washington Market Survey building list. 1811-1935 building list."
TCA / NYC Zoning Changes and Battles
Commodity Exchange Case (1 of 3), 1992 July 24
Scope and Contents
Copy of summons for the Supreme Court of the State of New York, County of New York case brought against the NYS Urban Development Corporation, the Commodity Exchange Inc. (COMEX) et al. by the Tribeca Community Association et al.
Commodity Exchange Case (2 of 3), 1992, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Copy of Plantiffs' memorandum of law in opposition to motion to dismiss and in support of cross-motion for summary judgement.
Commodity Exchange Case (3 of 3), 1992 November 24
Scope and Contents
Notice of cross-motion and case exhibits A-W.
Board of Standards and Appeals / Ramirez Project, 2003-2004, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The Ramirez Project refers to a proposal from Samuel Ramirez Jr. to build a structure at 408 Greenwich Street that would both house his family's bond trading business and create residences. Some residences were designed for the Ramirez family and others were designated for rental units. Ramirez had to obtain a zoning variance approval from the BSA for the planned nine story structure because the lot was only zoned for six stories. Community Board # 1, the Tribeca Community Association, and many Tribeca neighbors opposed the height of this building, feeling it would block views from nearby residences and clash with the character of the neighborhood. They also took issue with how a hardship variance could be granted for the construction of four luxury condominiums, two of which would be for the personal use of the Ramirez family. In the end, Ramirez was granted variance approval from the BSA and the building designed by his hired architect, Morris Adjmi, was completed in 2008.
Board of Standards and Appeals / Ramirez Project, 2004-2005, inclusive
Scope and Contents
In 2004, the TCA et al. brought a case to the Supreme Court of the State of New York County of New York, against the NYC BSA and Ramirez Properties, LLC, to vacate, set aside, and annul the approval of the BSA zoning variance to Ramirez Properties which allowed the construction of a nine story structure at 408 Greenwich Street. This folder contains photocopies of case documents.
Rezoning Lower Broadway / Lower Manhattan Mixed-Use District, 1983-2004, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folders read: "Letters. Press. Commodity Exchange aka Drexel aka COMEX Plan".
Tribeca North Rezoning (2 of 3 folders), 2004-2006, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folders read: "Press. Letters: elected officials, CB#1, TCA et al. Truffles LLC aka Jack Parker aka Ponte Properties".
Contains flyers and community signed petitions for the "Stop the Wall" campaign.
Tribeca North Rezoning (3 of 3 folders) over-size, undated, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Photograph of vehicles parked in a lot at the corner of Debrosses and Washington Street, looking north.
105 Duane Street High Rise, 1988-1992, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "Record Search City Hall. 4T to DOF and US Department of Justice."
This folder documents CB#1 and the TCA's opposition to the 52 story building at 105 Duane Street between Church and Broadway during both the planning and implementation stages.
NYC Planning and Zoning, 1992 January 30
Scope and Contents
Two booklets prepared by The New York City Department of City Planning titled, "Planning and Zoning New York City Yesterday Today and Tomorrow" and "A Brief Profile of Today's City and Trends for the Future, Addressing Demographics, the Economy, Land Use, Infrastructure, and Quality of Life." Accompanied by a program detailing the panel discussions and reception information.
60 Warren Street and West Broadway, 1988-2000, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "5 Stories atop a Landmark Building"
Chinatown Prison - Walker Street, 1982, inclusive
Reade and Hudson Street site, 1987-1989, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "115 unit building, 14 stories. Application denied after TCA contacted City Planning Commission." The LPC had approved the project, but the Department of Buildings denied the plan and the project was shut down.
Tribeca Grand Hotel, 1999, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "Triangle, Sixth Avenue and White and Walker Streets"
60 Hudson Street, 1996-2003, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "former Western Union Building - fuel tank oil permit"
48 Laight Street, 1999-2003, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "Corner of Laight Street and Hudson Street".
Beach Street, 1983-2004, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "Street eliminated from Greenwich to West Street for Shearson/AMEX".
88 Laight Street, 2003-2006, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "Building exceeded building height. Had to remove floors".
New York Law School, 2006-2011, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "Leonard and Church Streets"
Tribeca Buildings Zoning Changes, 1983-2007, inclusive
NYC Public Spaces, 2000, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "NYC granted through PGM 316 public spaces. Some are not open to the public - see NYT's list".
416-424 Washington Street
Scope and Contents
De Saram's notes read: "Major zoning lawsuit against gun warehouse - 10 years - aka Imperato, aka Amore Holdings. Hotel 416-424 Washington Street. 256 West Street, American Savings Bank, Brewran West, Lori Albar. Congressman Nadler FDIC lawsuit. 2005 new project approved."
Detailed information about the Nadler vs. FDIC lawsuit can be found here. The TCA was also listed as a plantiff in these lawsuits.
Washington Street Urban Renewal Area, 1984 May, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Sixth Amended Plan, Canal to Vesey, Final Environmental Impact Statement
Legal Records from Nadler vs. FDIC lawsuit, 1994-1997, inclusive
Board of Standards and Appeals Public Hearing Transcript, 1999 February 24
Scope and Contents
Public Hearing Concerning the Application for a Variance for the Hudson Hotel and Conference Center in Tribeca, New York. Calendar number: 180-95-BZ
416 Washington Street Warehouse Pile Logs, 2000 October 16
Letters, Notices, Flyers, and Press, 1984-2003, inclusive
Letters, Notices, and Flyers re: Board of Standards and Appeals, 1993-2000, inclusive
Board of Standards and Appeals Hearings, 1996-2002, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "Imperato Corp, Gun Warehouse, Brewran West, 32 Story 'Low-end Hotel', Boymelgreen - Residential"
Invoices related to Nadler vs. FDIC lawsuit, 1994-2002, inclusive
Hotel Environmental Impact Statement (1 of 2 folders), 1999-2000, inclusive
Hotel Environmental Impact Statement (2 of 2 folders) over-size, 2001, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Hudson Center Residential Project architectural drawings (4 pages)
Expert Testimonies for Board of Standards and Appeals, 1983-2002, inclusive
Nadler vs. FDIC lawsuit - Consultant Reports, 1984-2008, inclusive
Board of Standards and Appeals Hearing Minutes, 1999 July 21
Scope and Contents
Calendar number 180-95-BZ. Premises affected: 256 West Street and 416/24 Washington Street, Borough of Manhattan.
Public meeting before Landmarks Preservation Commission, 1994 September 20
Scope and Contents
In the matter of 416-424 Washington Street, aka 57-65 Vestry Street, Tribeca North Historic District (unproofread transcript)
Hotel - Statement of Facts and Summary of Pending Violations, 1997-1998, inclusive
Memorandum in opposition to hotel, 1999 February 11
Scope and Contents
Memorandum and Supporting List of Exhibits Opposing Application for Variance and Commenting Upon Draft Environmental Impact Statement. BSA Calendar Number: 180-95-BZ
Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Hudson Center Residential Project, 2000 June 15
Scope and Contents
BSA Calendar Number: 180-95-BZ CEQR Number 96-BSA-048M Prepared for the NYC Board of Standards and Appeals
Hotel / Hudson Center Tower Project, 1992-2000, inclusive
Community Board #1 Resolutions, 1993-1999, inclusive
Landmarks Preservation Commission, 1994 July 26
Scope and Contents
In the Matter of 414-424 Washington Street
Tribeca Community Association Developer and Zoning Lawsuits
Citi Bank Red Umbrella Travelers Logo - Letters, Notices, Flyers, and Press, 1991-1998, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Documents removed from three ring binder titled, "Umbrella"
Citi Bank Red Umbrella Travelers Logo - Board of Standards and Appeals Hearing, 1997 November 18
Scope and Contents
Calendar Number: 152-97-A
Citi Bank Red Umbrella Travelers Logo - Lawsuit and Press, 1996-2002, inclusive
415 Washington Street - Building Project Proposal Documents, 2005-2006, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes CB#1 resolutions images of site, Statement of Facts and Findings, Proposed F.A.R. Residential Layout, DOB Notice of Objections, Environmental Assessment Statement and Supplemental Report, Economic Analysis, and Evaluation of Subsurface and Environmental Conditions
415 Washington Street - Letters, Notices, Press, and Plans (1 of 2 folders), 1999-2006, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes a transcript of the Board of Stands and Appeals hearing on October 31, 2006. Case #: 128-06-BZ
415 Washington Street - Letters, Notices, Press, and Plans (2 of 2 folders) over-size, 2006, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Architectural drawings by Fairchild & Foster Atelier (11 pages)
Shearson - American Express - City Planning Council Rezoning of Washington Market
Scope and Contents
De Saram's notes read: "Lawsuit by Council member Ruth Messinger, State Senator Frans Leichter, Congressman Ted Weiss and TCA. Beach Street eliminated for Shearson/AMEX building."
These documents relate to the 1984 Article 78 petition filing in State Supreme Court by the Tribeca Community Association et al. asking that the Board of Estimate decision approving a Sixth Amended Plan to the Washington Street Urban Renewal Area and permitting construction of a downtown office tower by Shearson Lehman/American Express, be vacated.
Lawsuit - Legal records, Memorandum, and Letters, 1983-1984, inclusive
Calendar of the Board of Estimate, 1984 June 28
Scope and Contents
Includes zoning changes to the Lower Manhattan Mixed Use District highlighted by De Saram.
Zoning (1 of 2 folders), 1983-1995, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes correspondence between the TCA and other parties regarding the Shearson / American Express building development, legal fees, rezoning in Tribeca, and P.S. 234.
Zoning (2 of 2 folders) over-size, 1983-1995, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Two aerial photos of Tribeca with yellow arrows depicting "subject" and "site" respectively. One copy of the Washington Market Review (November 21, 1984) with an article about The Shearson Deal.
Rezoning - Letters, Notices, Flyers and Press, 1983-1987, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Also includes petitions signed by Tribeca residents
Court Documents, 1984, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes annotated case documents and a draft of the lease and land disposition agreement between NYC and Shearson Lehman/American Express Inc.
Lawsuit - Letters, Notices, Flyers, and Press (3 of 4 folders), 1983-1990, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "Letters from Congressman Ted Weiss, State Senator Francis Leichter, City Councilwoman Ruth Messinger et al."
Lawsuit - Letters, Notices, Flyers, and Press (1 of 4 folders) over-size, 1983-1990, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Map of Tribeca labeled "Appendix A" with three distinct mixed use zoning areas depicted and a note for artists applying for alteration permits.
Lower Manhattan Tribeca Reports and Plans
NYC Zoning Plans, Text Changes, and Studies, 1989-2002, inclusive
Lower Manhattan Zoning Press, 1986-2006, inclusive
Municipal Art Society Report to the Board of Standards and Appeals, 2004 January 8
Scope and Contents
Comprehensive Study of Zoning
Tweed Courthouse Library Request, 1984-1985, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The City budgeted $36 million for rehabilitation of the landmark Tweed Court House in fiscal year 1985-1986. This folder contains correspondence regarding a proposal from the New York Public Library to reserve some space in the Tweed Court House for a downtown library branch. Community Board #1 and the TCA supported this proposal, which was turned down by the Mayor's office.
Tax Cuts and Incentives, 1993-2006, inclusive
Scope and Contents
De Saram's notes read: "Public Properties, Development Rights, and Inclusionary Housing Program."
Lower Manhattan Rezoning Maps (1 of 2 folders), 1991-1999, inclusive
Lower Manhattan Rezoning Maps (2 of 2 folders) over-size, 1991-1999, inclusive
Scope and Contents
One "Hudson Square, Trinity Real Estate Map of Tribeca". One enlarged map of Tribeca which includes building names and lot numbers.
Lower Manhattan Photos (1 of 2 folders), 2005, undated, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes photgraphs of: 4 Leonard Street, 53 Chambers Street, 54 Chambers Street 182 Duane Street, NW corner of Frankin and Varick, SE corner of Duane and Greenwich Streets, 34 North Moore Street, Tribeca Upholstery storefront, and Pelavin Editions storefront.
Lower Manhattan Photos (2 of 2 folders) over-size, 1991-1999, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Two photographs. One aerial view of Tribeca blocks bound by West St, Hudson St, Clarkson and Canal Sts. One street view looking west captioned, "Sanitation parking cars illegally on street."
Noho Rezoning: A Discussion Paper, 2002 August, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Prepared for Friends of NoHo Architecture. Prepared by Buckhurst Fish & Jacquemart Inc.
Traffic Studies, Sanitation Garage & Salt Facility, and Realize Hudson Rise Alternative Plan
DSNY Garage - Notices, Proposals, Statements, and Legal Documents, 1999-2008, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "Department of Sanitation Garbage Truck Garage Documents."
DSNY Garage - Letters, Notices, and Flyers, 1994-2009, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "Department of Sanitation Garbage Truck Garage - Letters, City Board, City Officials, Public Hearings. $429 Million."
DSNY Garage - North of Canal to Spring Street, 1990-2008, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "600 Washington St, 505 Greenwich St, 491 Greenwich St, Between Canal and Spring Sts."
DSNY Garage - Press, Saatchi & Saatchi Event, 2007-2009, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "Department of Sanitation Garage for Garbage Trucks, Press. $429 million. Saatchi & Saatchi Event, Laurie Anderson, Lou Reed, James Gandolfini."
DSNY Garage - "Hudson Rise" Alternative Plan, 2008-2009, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "Department of Sanitation Garage - Community Solution. 'Hudson Rise' Alternative Plan, Z & H Architects."
Zoning Regulations, 2003-2004, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Zoning Resolutions published by the City of New York including: Article II - Residence District Regulations, Article III - Commericial District Regulations, Article IV - Maunfacturing District Regulations, and Article XI - Special Purpose Districts - Chapter 1: Special Tribeca Mixed Use District.
55 White Street, 1986-1992, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "Battle led to making Tribeca an historic district. Would have demolished a 5 story synagogue at 49 White Street."
Duane Hotel, 2000-2003, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "Duane Hotel aka Southwest Corner of 188 Church Street and 130-132 Duane Street."
Hudson River Trust, Friends of Hudson River Park, Pier 40, 1982-2009, inclusive
Envisioning Hudson Square booklet, 2007, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Architectural Design Charrette. Project Director: Michael Kramer. Curator: Stella Kramer
Canal Street, 1983-2001, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "Canal Street Corridor, Congestion, Mitigation, and Air Quality (CMAQ). Sponsors: Council member Kathryn Freed, Richard Barrett (CWC), Carole De Saram (TCA). Canal Street & Washington Street Intersection. Canal Street Intersection Photos and Papers."
Hudson River and Route 9A Development
Scope and Contents
De Saram's notes read: "Waterfront, 197A, Battery Park City, NY-NJ Harbor, Lower Broadway, Westside Highway Replacement Study."
Waterfront / 9A - Letters, Notices, Flyers, and Press, 1980-2007, inclusive
Battery Park City Plan, West Side Light Rail - Letters, Notices, Flyers, and Press, 1982-1990, inclusive
Manhattan Valley Circulation Study, 1986, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "Socioeconomic Profile, NYC Transit Authority Council - Light Rail Line on Westside."
New York - New Jersey Harbor Estuary Program / The River Project, 1988-1989, inclusive
Lower Broadway Corridor Study, Alternative City Task Force, and 197C Remapping Application, 1986-1993, inclusive
Tribeca Community Association Quality of Life Issues - Lawsuits
Project Return Foundation - Drug Treatment Center, 1988-1992, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The Project Return files document a proposed residential and outpatient drug treatment center slated for 107-113 Franklin Street in Tribeca that was to be funded by the State Division of Substance Abuse Services and managed by the Project Return Foundation. The Tribeca Community Association was strongly opposed to this facility in their neighborhood and activated the community in petitioning against it. In 1991, the Division of Substance Abuse Services announced they would not provide the $6.3 million funding for the project, citing the fiscal crisis as the reason for their withdrawl.
Project Return - Letters, Press Releases, 1988-1992, inclusive
Manhattan Neighborhood Council, 1994-1997, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "Formed against social service facilities. Conflict of interest on City Boards. Community facilities placements. 500 people from all areas of the city attended the first meeting." This folder documents the steps taken by the Manhattan Neighborhood Council and the Mayor's Office to reconcile reports of conflicts of interest on community boards where members were allegedly using their public positions to benefit their private interests.
Westway Canal - Toxic Waste Plant and Microwave Pollution, 1984, inclusive
Stonewall Play - Debrosses and Watts Streets, 1994, inclusive
Helicopter Noise Safety, 1995-2000, inclusive
Quality of Life Issues, 1994-1999, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "Movie house - North Moore Street. TCA filed suit against City Planning. Developers dropped plans for movie house. Franklin Street Cleaners - use of toxins. Duane Street Cleaners - use of toxins. John Kennedy Jr. attended CB#1 meetings against cleaners and testified at both hearings.
NYS Parole Board - Letters, Press, Flyers, 1980-1982, inclusive
Scope and Contents
This file documents responses from the Tribeca community after hearing that the State Parole Board was planning on relocating their office to 21-25 Hudson Street. The South of Canal Association (SOCA) was formed in January 1982 as a result of widespread opposition to the Parole Board office relocation and worked with Community Board #1 to prevent the planned move. In March 1982, the Parole Board withdrew the plans to relocate to Hudson Street following negotiations with the Department of City Planning, the Manhattan Borough President, and other city officials.
Khapra Beetle Attack - USDA Fumigation (1 of 2), 1982-2005, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The Khapra beetle attack - USDA fumigation refers to the extermination procedure overseen by the USDA when the Port Warehouse, located at 47 Vestry Street, was wrapped in tarpaulin and pumped with methyl bromide gas on 11 November 1982. The USDA had hired a fumigation company from Florida and the neighborhood was not given adequate notice of the planned use of this toxic, odorless gas. De Saram and CB#1 held an emergency meeting with government agencies present and were able to postpone the fumigation for a few weeks to notify neighbors and put hospitals on alert. Following the event, CB#1 organized an all-day conference on "The Use of Toxins in an Urban Environment". Field experts, government agencies, and the USDA participated.
Khapra Beetle Attack - USDA Fumigation (2 of 2), 1982-2005, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The press packet for "The Use of Toxins in an Urban Environment" conference, is included in this file.
Nightlife, Discos, and Bars - Letters, Notices, Flyers, and Press, 1979-2008, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Topics covered include noise codes and the Noise Task Force, nightclub violence and police reports, incident complaints from residents, the State Liquor Authority and liquor licenses, rooftop zoning, the Manhattan Borough President's Nightlife Task Force, Club Vinyl aka Wetlands Preserve, and brothels.
Tribeca Parks Founded by Community
Finn Square, 1985-1990, inclusive
Scope and Contents
This file includes letters, grant applications, meeting minutes, and notices regarding sponsorship and renovation of Finn Square.
Bogardus Park, 1987-2011, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes letters, notices, flyers, minutes, press, financial statements, and petitions, regarding the designation of space at the intersection of Hudson, Reade, West Broadway, and Chambers Streets, as James Bogardus Triangle. James Bogardus is known as "the father of Cast-Iron Architecture." The Tribeca Community Association and Friends of Bogardus Triangle, with support from Friends of Cast Iron Architecture, obtained State and Federal funds, hired an architect, and worked with area residents and businesses to design a viewing garden in this location that was once just concrete and a few trees.
Bogardus Park, 2000, inclusive
Scope and Contents
One additional letter added to the collection by De Saram in 2021 and boxed separately.
Shearson Park, 1987-1988, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Shearson Park refers to the 23,000-square-foot plaza next to the Shearson Lehman Brothers/American Express building at 390 Greenwich Ave. The park opened in 1986 on an interim basis as part of a community amenity provided by the company in exchange for approval of its project by the Board of Estimate in 1984. On 25 June 25th, 1987, three quarters of the plaza was bulldozed and fenced off in preparation for the construction of a new 40-story office tower. Four neighborhood civic associations, including the TCA, and four residents of Lower Manhattan filed a case against Shearson/AMEX calling for the green park space to be restored.
Canal Street Park, 1998-2008, inclusive
Scope and Contents
This file contains notices, letters, press, images, and ephemera related to the reconstruction of Canal Park by community groups including the Tribeca Community Association and the Canal West Coalition. Canal Park was used as a public square in the early 19th century and was redesigned by Calvert Vaux and Samuel Parsons, Jr. in 1888. After the ground-breaking ceremony for the Holland Tunnel in 1920, the park became a construction site, followed by a parking lot for the remainder of the 20th century. In 1998, Tribeca community groups joined together to compile research, obtain funding, and petition the city for the park to be reconstituted as Vaux and Parsons had designed it.
Greening of Greenwich, 1988-2004, inclusive
Scope and Contents
This file contains letters, press, resolutions, and a scope of service related to the Greening of Greenwich Project, which was fulfilled in December 2000. This community driven project sought to narrow the wider portion of Greenwich Street to provide more space for greenery and pedestrian traffic.
Washington Market Park, 1980-2006, inclusive
Scope and Contents
This file includes letters, memorandum, press, and newsletters related to the interim-site reserved for Washington Market Community Park, near Independence Plaza, during the early 1980s when Manhattan Community College resumed campus building construction. With the help of Assemblyman Paul Viggiano, the park was preserved and made a permanent community fixture. Other topics include concerns from Friends of Washington Market Park regarding surrounding traffic and development in the 2000s. There is a DVD containing a 6 minute documentary detailing the traffic dangers at Duane and Greenwich Streets. The video was made by Friends of Washington Market Park with The Streets Renaissance Project. This DVD is restricted within the collection due to preservation issues.
Duane Park, 1984, undated, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Small amount of material related to the activities of Friends of Duane Park.
Tribeca Open Space Study by Susan Mareneck, 1992 June, inclusive
Parks Department, 2000-2004, inclusive
Scope and Contents
This file contains promotional material, brochures, 9th Annual State of the Parks Address dated January 18th, 2002, and a press article
Texture of Tribeca Book
Scope and Contents
"The Texture of Tribeca" is a book written by Andrew Dolkart, published in 1989. This book was instrumental in raising awareness about the history of Tribeca and acheiving landmark status. These files document the TCA's efforts to raise money for the book through organized benefit events. Successful silent auctions were made possible by art and service donations from Tribeca artists and business owners.
Benefits (3 of 4 folders), 1986-1995, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folder reads: "To raise money to print 'Texture of Tribeca', house tours, walking tours with Andrew Dolkart (12/13/93 and 6/11/95), art auctions" File includes artist description and donation forms, letters, press releases, TCA committee and volunteer lists, and ephemera.
Benefits (4 of 4 folders) over-size, 1986-1995, inclusive
Scope and Contents
"Tribeca Alert!" poster publicizing the Tribeca Benefit Art Auction featuring artwork by Mimi Gross.
Andrew Dolkart, 1988-2002, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Author of "Texture of Tribeca".
Miscellaneous Photos and Lithographs, [Images] (1 of 3 folders), undated, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes magazine pages, photographs, photocopies, and printouts of Tribeca buildings and streetviews, some in color. Many of the images are annotated by De Saram in the margins. Portrayed buildings and addresses include: 54 Laight Street, 50 Duane Street, 165 Duane Street, 55 White Street, the Cary Building, and Independence Plaza North Apartments.
Miscellaneous Photos and Lithographs, [Images] (2 of 3 folders) over-size, 1989 September, inclusive
Scope and Contents
"Times in Tribeca" article in Metropolis with black and white images of Tribeca views.
Miscellaneous Photos and Lithographs, [Images] (3 of 3 folders) over-size
Scope and Contents
"Perspectives on the Manhattan Civic Center", designed and curated by the Municipal Art Society Fellows Committee on Preservation and Urbanism. (black and white printout copy)
Untitled [Correspondence, Press, Ephemera] (1 of 2 folders), 1984-1995, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes invitations for book publication celebrations and an advertisement for the book among correspondence and press articles related to "The Texture of Tribeca."
Untitled [Correspondence, Press, Ephemera] (2 of 2 folders) over-size, 1984-1995, inclusive
Scope and Contents
"The Texture of Tribeca" black and white poster advertising the book
Landmarks Preservation Commission Assignments for Tribeca Research and Photo Volunteers, 1984-1985, inclusive
The Committee for the Washington Market Historic District - Informational Packet, 1986-1988, inclusive
Tribeca Community Association (TCA) Papers
Scope and Contents
Contains internal organizational records about the Tribeca Community Association and Community Board #1.
Tribeca Press, 1972-2009, inclusive
TCA Letters, Newsletters, Notices, and Meetings, 1984-2007, inclusive
TCA Grants, 1985-1992, inclusive
TCA Organizational Information, 1984-2010, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folders read: "TCA description, bylaws, IRS 4T (1/29/87), charities registration and receipt, certificate of incorporation, NYS letter of incorporation, NYS filing receipt, NYS letters of certificate of incorporation. Carole De Saram - CB#1 appointment, [with] Mayor [at] Gracie Mansion, Parks Commissioner, City Journal. TCA Incorporation - State and Federal, 1986 filed, 1987 approved."
Community Board #1 (CB#1) (1 of 2 folders), 1978-2007, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Original folders read: "CB#1 applicants, variances, lawsuits, demos. CB#1 audit. CB#1 letters and members."
Community Board #1 (CB#1) (2 of 2 folders) over-size, 1978-2007, inclusive
Scope and Contents
"Where Particular People Congregate" parliamentary procedures at a glance, printed as a community service by the Houston Chronicle.
Handbook for Community Board Members, Revised 1992, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Published by the City of New York, David N. Dinkins, Mayor, Community Assistance Unit, Office of the Mayor, Michael Kharfen, Director.
Carole De Saram - Appointments, 1978-2010, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Appointments to CB#1, BMCC Boards, and others. There are letters of endorsement for De Saram from community leaders and politicians. Includes a 5 page personal statement from De Saram depicting her leading roles in the Washington Market Park community project and the USDA Khapra beetle fumigation event. The first Newsletter from CB#1 (Issue I, Number 1) is also present, dated April-June, 1978.
CB#1 Resolutions and Zoning Letters, 1979-2008, inclusive
"416-424 Washington Street, New York, New York: A Study of a Particular Site and General Preservation Design Ethics in the United States." By: Laura Patricia Brugger, 1994, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the degree Master of Science in Historic Preservation. Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation, Columbia University.
Photographs
Photographs (Folder 1 of 4), circa 2000?, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Photos from North Tribeca. Include, among others, the area of 504-506 Canal, rear of 508 Canal, corner of Canal and Greenwich, 530 Canal, 288 West, Watts and Washington, Desbrosses and Washington.
Photographs (Folder 2 of 4), circa 2000?, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Photos from North Tribeca. Include, among others, corner Washington and Desbrosses, Washington and Watts, 459-465 Washington.
Photographs (Folder 3 of 4), circa 2000?, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Photos from North Tribeca. Include, among others, 466 Washington, Vestry and Watts, various places along Greenwich.
Photographs (Folder 4 of 4), circa 2000?, inclusive
Scope and Contents
14 photos from East and South Tribeca.