Billy Leroy Retiring Coffin; Three-Story Replacement in the Works
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The true swan song, as it were, for Billy’s Antiques is later this afternoon, eight months after the big-top tent was put to rest for good. Why, you ask? We are told by Billy Leroy himself that the battered coffin will be retired from the empty lot at 76 East Houston later today. Longest interment ever; thing even withstood Hurricane Sandy. Apparently “it’s time.” Say a prayer for them Bowery ghosts.
We took the cue and discovered that final plans are being shuffled through the Department of Buildings for the three-story replacement development as we speak. While still pending approval, new zoning documents delivered to the city show a rough blueprint of what to expect here. Maximum height allowed under current regulations is 75 feet, but this structure will probably reach half that, and include a setback. But don’t worry, Tony Goldman’s graffiti wall legacy is to remain intact. For now. No official word just yet on whether Billy will resume selling antiques in the new digs…
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Gary H. Silver Architects and Robert Silman Associates are both behind the project, which is already running behind the initial schedule of last spring. Their application is still processing, so it could be a little while longer.
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