Who keeps the City beautiful? Who decides what the municipal built environment should look like, what belongs where, and what the city's public realm should mean? This lecture illuminates these issues through examination of the activities of the Art Commission of the City of New York — the city's official design review board — past and present.
Events
Lecture: The Politics of Urban Beauty: New York and Its Art Commission
Stay in touch
Sign up for our free newsletter
More from Streetsblog New York City
Gov. Hochul Just Says ‘Way-No’ to Driverless Cabs Across NYS
The governor made the shocking choice to reverse her budget proposal that allowed companies like Waymo to expand throughout the state.
Friday Video: How Many ‘Better Billion’ Plans Are There?
Apparently, there are lots of better ways to spend $1 billion.
February 20, 2026
Friday’s Headlines: You’ve Gov To See It For Yourself Edition
South Bronx anti-highway advocates want Gov. Hochul to come see the site of her proposed Cross Bronx widening for herself. Plus more news.
February 20, 2026
SEE IT: Placard Corruption at Antonio Reynoso’s Brooklyn Borough Hall
The progressive darling promised to end the rampant practice of illegal parking around Borough Hall — but has continued to issue unofficial placards that enable it.
February 19, 2026
Thursday’s Headlines: Set Our Calendar Edition
The next four weeks are setting up to be the World Cup tournament of the livable streets movement. Plus other news.
February 19, 2026
Cycle Club Sues City, Calling Central Park Bike Speed Limit A ‘Real Threat’ To Active Transportation
The oldest recreational bike club sued the city alleging it overstepped with 15 mile per hour speed limit in Central Park.
February 18, 2026
