Empire State Building Getting A Skyscraping Neighbor?
NEW YORK (CBS 2) -- The Empire State Building is a New York City icon, but it could soon be getting a very large neighbor -- a huge new skyscraper.
The Empire State Building can be seen for miles, but some say plans for a new building almost as tall and just a few blocks away could overshadow it.
CBS 2's Scott Rapoport says a developer has proposed building a 67 story, 1,200 foot building called 15 Penn Plaza.
And some say that would totally alter the New York Skyline.
"That's disrespectful for the Empire State Building," Steven Ciancanelli said.
"They can't block that view...Empire State Building...that's big for the city," Rumel Bradley said.
Rapoport reports that the proposal has the support of the city planning commission and that it will go before the City Council -- where it has some enthusiastic support -- beginning next week for final approval.
Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer says the building would create jobs, office space and would give "people a sense that we are building again in New York City."
But New Yorkers, who see the Empire State Building every day, have some thoughts of their own.
"Why would they do that," asked one man.
"You know. Economically if it would be good, build it."
"The Empire State Building is a landmark. We want to be able to see it wherever we are," said Beverly Coleman.
A final decision on whether the tower will be constructed or not could be decide by Wednesday.
The building's developer -- Vornado Realty -- declined comment on the story.
