There is Still Hope for 206 Bowery
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In the weeks since fresh Marshal eviction papers were served at 208 Bowery, Yasakart has been operating its business in the ground level of the embattled Federal-style house at 206. The move was made official with an awning swap in mid-August.
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Amidst the hustle-bustle of nearby commercial supply shops and passing sidewalkers, the old J & D Restaurant Equipment signage was pried from the facade and tossed curbside, only to be replaced by the awning from next door. Yet rather than discard the J & D awning, it was instead hoisted above the shuttered gates of 208. And leasing signs are now in the windows.
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That’s not all, though. 206 Bowery resident Ralph Lewis emailed us with a status update regarding the ongoing saga, and it appears things are taking a media-friendly turn for the better. There’s still hope, and it begins with new locks and keys for the front door:
This came to be [receiving keys] only after another Eviction Notice and a visit from the Marshall last week (Maxine was very nice to me). She allowed me the key, because the judge ruled in my favor last month, vacating my involvement in the Eviction, which was great news that I received on my birthday, no less.
Now, I’m not out of the woods at all. The building owner can just sue me again, and we’ll do the eviction process all over. But at that point I will have an opportunity to make my case, which my attorney believes is good, and I am looking forward to my day in court.
Win or lose, the best thing is that the case should now be tied up in the system for some time – time for the Landmarks Commission to rule on the designation of 206 Bowery as a landmark. If I am able to holdout until this terrific house is no longer under the threat of destruction, I will be very happy. The Landmarks Commission closes the case on 206 Bowery in October, and can rule anytime after that on the building’s designation.
Huzzah!
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