News Summary
In the wake of a tragic parking garage collapse in Lower Manhattan, plans to demolish a nearby apartment building at 55 Ann St. have emerged. This move follows the loss of life and injuries sustained during the incident, prompting officials to examine safety regulations and structural integrity across the city. The future of both properties remains uncertain as eviction orders were issued and discussions around stricter building codes take place. New Yorkers closely watch the developments as the city grapples with safeguarding its infrastructure.
Major Changes Ahead Following Tragic Garage Collapse in Lower Manhattan
New York City is buzzing with news as plans unfold to demolish a neighboring apartment building at 55 Ann St. This move comes just two years after a tragic incident where a parking garage collapsed at 57 Ann St. The collapse claimed the life of 59-year-old Willis Moore, the garage manager, and left five others injured, prompting significant changes in the area.
Demolition Permits on the Table
Jeffrey Henick, one of the co-owners of the now-defunct garage, has officially submitted permits to the NYC Department of Buildings to tear down the apartment building at 55 Ann St. This mixed-use property, which consists of three residential units and some ground-floor retail space, has been empty ever since the collapse. City officials had initially ordered an evacuation of the building, and tenants have not returned since the incident.
Background of the Properties
The Henick brothers purchased the property at 55 Ann St. back in 2014 for a hefty $3.7 million. Since 1989, they have also been managing the nearby parking garage. However, following the tragic events of April 2023, the city mandated the complete demolition of the garage itself. Now, the future of both properties is hanging in the balance.
Tenant Displacement and Evacuations
The aftermath of the parking garage collapse has been devastating for many. The Cohen family, who lived nearby, was forced to evacuate and has since relocated to Westfield, N.J. In the wake of the collapse, the city did allow some partial lifting of the evacuation order for 55 Ann St. last year, enabling an electrician to access the site for a brief period. Despite this, the apartment building has remained deserted.
Inspection and Violations
In light of the collapse, the NYC Department of Buildings is taking a deeper look into the safety of aging structures across the city. Prior issues with the garage were flagged, including open violations dating back to 2003 and 2009 regarding loose or missing concrete. There’s also mention of two unresolved violations related to structural damage stemming from the garage collapse.
City-Wide Response and Future Plans
The effects of this tragic incident have rippled throughout the city. With heightened scrutiny on parking facilities, the garage at 220 E. Ninth St. is now set for conversion into a residential development. While there are no new construction proposals filed for the Ann Street properties, the uncertainty surrounding both buildings leaves residents and onlookers pondering what’s next.
Legislation and Future Safety Measures
In response to the catastrophic events and ongoing concerns about the stability of older buildings, city officials are now eyeing new legislation. Efforts are underway to boost inspection requirements and tougher penalties for unresolved violations. A new building inspection program is also being considered to address broader issues of aging infrastructure in the city.
Looking Ahead
The path forward for 55 Ann St. and 57 Ann St. remains unclear. With demolition plans for the apartment building in motion, future redevelopment opportunities could arise, but for now, the area remains steeped in sadness and uncertainty. As the city takes steps to protect its residents, the lingering impact of the collapse will not be easily forgotten.
New Yorkers are watching closely as these developments unfold, hopeful for a safer future while remembering those affected by the tragedy that has forever changed this neighborhood.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- New York Post: Owners of Collapsed NYC Garage to Demolish Adjacent Property
- CBS News: Manhattan Parking Garage Collapse Investigation
- Crain’s New York: 55 Ann St. Lower Manhattan Slated for Demolition
- ABC7 NY: Family of Willis Moore Files Lawsuit
- Habitat Magazine: Initial Assessment Reports for Parking Garages
- Wikipedia: Infrastructure in New York City
- Google Search: New York City parking garage safety
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Infrastructure
- Google News: Manhattan parking garage collapse
Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER
NEW YORK STAFF WRITER The NEW YORK STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewYork.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New York, the five boroughs, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as New York Fashion Week, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Tribeca Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and United Way of New York, plus leading businesses in finance and media that power the local economy such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bloomberg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBuffalo.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into New York's dynamic landscape.
