First Department rules NYSDEC was not an “involved agency” in project’s environmental review. In 2008, the City’s Economic Development Corporation selected MMPI Piers LLC, a subsidiary of Vornado Realty Trust, to renovate Piers 92 and 94 along the Hudson River between West 52nd and West 55th Streets in Manhattan. The piers have been used as exhibition space and for trade shows, and Pier 92 has served as a cruise ship dock when Piers 88 and 90 have been in use. MMPI intended to expand Pier 94’s headhouse to increase exhibition space, build a new pavilion that could be used for free by the community for up to 30 days a year, alter Pier 92’s ground level to accommodate loading and unloading of trade show materials, and reconfigure the vehicle entrance and exit to alleviate traffic congestion.

MMPI conducted an environmental assessment, and the lead agency for the review, the Department of Small Business Services, found that the project would not have significant adverse environmental impacts and issued a negative declaration. The City Council approved the project in July 2009. (read more…)