For some reason Ponte Equities has taken down the entire cornice at 426 Washington (which the company is using as an office). Is it a sign that the building will be demolished? —M.

The only permit in the Department of Buildings database for 426 Washington (a.k.a. 60 Vestry) is for a construction fence that had to be put up when the adjacent building was demolished. I don’t know if this is work you’re allowed to do without a permit—either way, a sidewalk shed would certainly seem advisable—but it’s Columbus Day so I can’t reach out to the Department of Buildings.

Ponte Equities doesn’t generally comment to the press, but I called anyway. The person who answered the phone didn’t understand what a cornice is, and she hung up while I was trying to explain. I also tried an old email address I have for Ponte.

If the building was going to be demolished, I imagine it would’ve come down with all the other buildings on that block (and after Ponte had moved out).

I’m heading out of town for a few days, so if you live or work around there, please keep an eye on the building.

UPDATE 10/19: The DOB sent an inspector, and this is the report. Not sure what the part about step cracks means but apparently no permit was required for the removal of the cornice.

Got a question? Email it to tribecacitizen@gmail.com or call/text 917-209-6473.

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• What are those planes flying so low?
• What’s this two-year subway construction project?
• What are those doodads on 60 Vestry?
• What’s happening on Pier 26?
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