Streetscape of Manida Street./Image Credit: LPC

The designation created the 150th historic district in New York City. On June 23, 2020, the Landmarks Preservation Commission voted to create the Manida Street Historic District in the Hunts Point section of the Bronx. The designation followed support from local residents, community activists, and elected officials who wanted to preserve 42 semi-detached brick houses along Manida Street from Garrison to Lafayette Avenues. 

The Renaissance Revival style houses are an example of the early 20th Century development of Hunts Point and were all constructed by the spring of 1909. The area represents a period in the early 20th Century when the South Bronx experienced a period of rapid development. For CityLand’s prior coverage of the Manida Street designation process, click here.

In another notable milestone, the Manida Street Historic District is the 150th historic district established by the Landmarks Preservation Commission. 

Landmarks Chair Sarah Carroll stated, “I am so pleased that New York City’s 150th Historic District. As Chair I have committed to ensuring that the Commission prioritize designations in areas of the city less represented by landmarks, like the South Bronx. This gem of a district is not only a reminder of the early-20th century residential development of the South Bronx, but also reflects this community’s long-term commitment to their neighborhood.” 

Council Member Rafael Salamanca, who represents Manida Street, stated, “The 800 block section of Manida Street dates back more than 100 years to the early 1900s, when the Hunts Point neighborhood was experiencing tremendous development and population growth. More than a century later, Manida Street has maintained a strong neighborhood context and connection to the historical nature of when the area was first developed. In a city that is ever-changing, Mandia Street serves as a link to the rich history of the South Bronx. Working with community advocates who have vigorously pushed for this designation for over a decade, I am proud to support the Manida Street Historic District, which would hold the distinction of being New York City’s 150th historic district.”

Simeon Bankoff, Executive Director of the Historic Districts Council, stated, “The Historic Districts Council is very pleased that the Landmarks Preservation Commission is looking into underserved areas of the city such as the South Bronx to create new historic districts. Manida Street is a handsome block with an interesting history and strong community support. It’s fitting that is should be designated as New York City’s 150th! historic district.” 

By: Veronica Rose (Veronica is the CityLaw fellow and a New York Law School graduate, Class of 2018.)