Resources
Below are some resources we thought you might find helpful as you put your urbanSHED submission together.
New York City Buildings Department
Access to the NYC Building Code, and the New York State Multiple Dwelling Law. Guidelines for agency services such as reviewing plans; issuing permits and Certificates of Occupancy; inspecting properties; and registering trade licenses. Chapter 33 in the Building Code discusses "Safeguards During Construction and Demolition." Click here for a synopsis of Section BC-3307. Protection of pedestrians.
New York City Department of City Planning
Access to the NYC Zoning Resolution, Community Data, Citywide and Borough projects, and Proposals and Studies.
City Planning's responsibilities include land use and environmental review; preparation of plans and policies; and provision of technical assistance and planning information to government agencies, public officials, and community boards. Additional activities range from land use analysis in support of the Commission's review of proposals for zoning map and text amendments; special permits under the Zoning Resolution; changes in the City Map; the acquisition and disposition of city-owned property; the acquisition of office space for city use; site selection for public facilities; urban renewal plans and amendments; landmark and historic district designations; and community-initiated plans under Section 197-a of the City Charter.
American Institute of Architects New York Chapter
Oldest and largest chapter of the American Institute of Architects with membership consisting of over 4,400 practicing architects, allied professionals, students, and public members interested in architecture and design. AIA offers a multitude of resources such as events, documents, research, publications - all pertaining to the built environment.
New York City Department of Transportation
Sidewalk sheds are perhaps the most ubiquitous element that surrounds the perimeter of city streets. In effect, you cannot separate the sidewalk and its shed from the design of the street - the pedestrian must encounter both.
- Sustainable Streets
"Sustainable Streets" is the strategic plan for the New York City Department of Transportation. It outlines a green approach to transportation through proposals like more transportation choices and more reliable travel - and streets that serve as public places and communal areas. Sustainable Streets will improve our commutes and environment and represent a new frontier in efforts to improve the quality of life in New York City. - Street Design Manual
The New York City Street Design Manual consolidates street design policies, guidelines and specifications in one easy-to-use document. The Manual is intended to serve as a comprehensive resource for promoting higher quality street designs and more efficient project implementation.
The Sun Building - Landmarks Preservation Commission Report
The Department of Buildings conducts business in all five boroughs with its main headquarters located at 280 Broadway, otherwise known as the Sun Building. For a historical narrative and analysis of its architectural merits, one can look at its landmark status designation. The link above is to a report compiled from the June 14, 1983 Landmarks Preservation Commission public hearing on the proposed designation of the Sun Building as a Historic Landmark. This report will shed light on the details for the urbanSHED International Design Competition's model site.
Re:Construction 2009 is a public art program produced by the Downtown Alliance that channels the energy of Downtown's rebuilding process by recasting construction sites as canvasses for innovative public art and architecture. Each project uses standard construction barriers to embrace the ongoing nature of Downtown's redevelopment with original and whimsical design. The Downtown Alliance works closely with public and private developers to produce each installation.
The range of Downtown Alliance's activities impacts the urbanSHED International Design Competition through their ongoing efforts at making the streets of Lower Manhattan more attractive and convenient for pedestrians. Their overall work and especially the Re:Construction program is a prime example of transformative initiatives for the City's streetscape.
August 19, 2009: “Not Business As Usual: Competitions” presentation by NYC Department of Building Commissioner Robert LiMandri.