Landmark Commission Votes Against MTA Ventilation Building for the Village Updated June 14, 2011 4:17pm

The MTA released renderings this week of a proposed fan plant for Mulry Square. (MTA)

By Serena Solomon

DNAinfo Reporter/Producer

MIDTOWN — The Landmarks Preservation Commission voted Tuesday to reject the MTA's revised design for a new subway ventilation plant in Greenwich Village.

The LPC unanimously voted against the plan by the MTA to build a three story building at the intersection of Greenwich Avenue and Seventh Avenue South, they said in a statement.

The commission's decision is only advisory and can't block the project from moving forward.

The plan drew criticism from residents and preservationists for its poor attempt to blend in to the historic district by including a façade similar to a 19th century row house.

Some members of the commission suggested the design should ditch its attempt to reflect the surrounding buildings. Instead commissioner Joan Gerner challenged the city to "be honest about what it is." 

The $180 million building, complete with a brick façade and windows, is meant to provide emergency ventilation to the subway system. The MTA’s initial design was shot down by Community Board 2, but has since been revised.

Deirdre Parker, a spokeswoman for the MTA, said she couldn't comment "until we receive the offical report and have a chance to review it."

By Serena Solomon, DNAinfo.com

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