DelMundo, Anthony freelance NYDN
5Pointz, the iconic graffiti-splashed old factory along the number 7 train located at Davis Street and Jackson Avenue in Long Island City, New York.
A plan to turn a famed Long Island City graffiti landmark into a pair of luxury condo towers was voted down Thursday night.
Members of Community Board 2 at the meeting on the future of 5Pointz said they wanted developer G M Realty to offer some affordable housing and more artist space.
David Wolkoff, one of the owners of the former water meter factory, said he plans to “very seriously” look into the board’s suggestions.
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But he pointed out that the board is strictly advisory and the local tourist attraction will be razed once the project receives city approval.
“The neighborhood is in a transition right now,” said David Wolkoff, who owns the building with his father Jerry Wolkoff. “We believe this project will be an economic boom to the area because of the residents that it will bring.”
The Wolkoffs, who have allowed the 5Pointz Aerosol Art Center to legally cover the building in graffiti for more than a decade, are seeking a special permit to allow a larger floor-to-area ration for the towers.
RELATED: LIC GRAFFITI MECCA 5POINTZ TO BE RAZED
David Wolkoff said this will allow for enough space to include high-end amenities in the 41- and 47-story towers like an indoor rock climbing wall, simulated golf course and barbecue areas in the project. The first building is slated to open in 2015.
In addition, the Wolkoffs promised to create a plaza that would be open to the public, as well as a gallery and artist spaces.
The project must go before the Borough President and the City Planning Commission and receive City Council approval.
