Green lights for Empire State Building neighbor as NYC lawmakers vote to allow new skyscraper

NY approves new neighbor for Empire State Building

NEW YORK — The Empire State Building’s owner has lost his bid to stop a new skyscraper from rising in the neighborhood.

The New York City Council approved zoning and land use changes Wednesday that pave the way for a new 67-story tower two blocks west of the 102-story Empire State landmark.

The Empire State Building’s owner had tried to persuade lawmakers to reject the project. Anthony Malkin says the proposed 1,190-foot glass office tower will ruin the view and forever alter the skyline.

Mayor Michael Bloomberg and council members who backed the plan dismissed those complaints and said the city should welcome new investments.

The development is still in the planning stages. No date for construction has been set.