NYC panel clears way for mosque near ground zero by denying building’s landmark status

Panel’s landmark denial frees NYC mosque site

NEW YORK — A New York City panel has denied landmark status to a building near ground zero, freeing a group to convert the property into an Islamic community center and mosque.

The Landmarks Preservation Commission’s voted 9-0 against granting landmark status to the 152-year-old building, which is blocks from the site of the Sept. 11 attacks.

National and New York politicians and the Anti-Defamation League have come out in recent weeks against plans for the mosque, saying it disrespects the memory of Sept. 11 victims. Mayor Michael Bloomberg has supported the mosque.

Commissioners said the building didn’t meet historic criteria to qualify as a landmark.