NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — An effort to save Brooklyn's Grand Prospect Hall has failed after the city denied a push by community organizers to save the historic building from demolition.
The city's Landmarks Preservation Commission said in a letter Tuesday that the over a century-old Park Slope banquet hall — noted for it's infamous low-budget commercials — could not be considered a landmark designation because there have been too many alterations to the exterior and interior of the building to "rise to the level of architectural significance."
"We understand that many people have voiced support for designation based on the building's use since the 1980's as an event space for weddings, proms and other pivotal life events, as well as neighborhood celebrations," the LPC said in their letter. "However, the LPC does not regulate use and landmark destination does not compel an owner to restore a building or bring back to prior use."
Organizers with "Save The Grand Prospect Hall" shared the news and the city's letter on Twitter writing, "we plan to keep working to try and save the facade by halting work or discussing with the developer ways to preserve the facade."
The group's effort comes as a petition to save the venue garnered over 40,000 signatures — which continues to gain support despite the city's decision.
The space was sold to local developer and electrical contractor Angelo Rigas after its previous previous owner died of COVID-19 last year.
Rigas' spokesperson told The Gothamist he plans to build a "low-scale residential building with an affordable component" and that he appreciates "the community's attachment to the Grand Prospect Hall."
As neighbors and advocates vow to continue their fight, Patch reports an application to fully demolish the building remains pending with the Department of Buildings and work on the interior of the building was already given a permit.
