Late-period buildings dating from the island’s time as a military base will be cleared for open space. On July 26, 2011, Landmarks approved the Trust for Governors Island’s proposal to demolish six buildings and install landscaping in the Governors Island Historic District. The buildings are located in the southeast corner of the historic district and include a wood-frame garage, a mechanical shop, a ferry waiting room, two transformer buildings, and an exercise studio attached to barracks designed by Mc- Kim, Mead & White. The demolition was proposed in order to improve passenger circulation at the nearby ferry landing and to increase visual corridors on the island.

The 172-acre island served as a U.S. Army base from 1821 until 1966. The island was then used by the Coast Guard until 1997. The Governors Island Historic District, designated in 1996, encompasses 92 acres in the northern portion of the island, including the Governors Island National Monument. In April 2010, the State transferred primary responsibility of the island to the City, which plans to redevelop the island’s southern portion into a recreational and cultural area. 7 City- Land 63 (May 15, 2010).  (more…)