Verizon official honored for preservation efforts

Real Estate Weekly, May 26, 2004

On May 27, the New York Landmarks Conservancy will present the 2004 Chairman's Award to Paul Crotty, Verizon's Group President for New York and Connecticut for his efforts to restore the Verizon building at 140 West St. following the attacks of 9/11. The award ceremony, dinner and cruise around New York Harbor will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. aboard the Forbes yacht "The Highlander" at Chelsea Piers, Pier 60.

"Paul Crotty has demonstrated a strong commitment to preserving the character of this city while shaping policy as both a public servant and a corporate leader," said John J. Kerr, chairman of the New York Landmarks Conservancy. "Mr. Crotty is highly deserving of this award."

Crotty oversaw the restoration of the landmark 1926 Art Deco Verizon building. The collapse of both 7 World Trade Center and the north tower resulted in severe damage to the former New York Telephone headquarters, requiring both exterior and interior restoration.

"After 140 West St. was severely damaged on 9/11, Verizon immediately set about restoring the building to the highest standards, not knowing what insurance settlement they would receive," said Peg Breen, president of the Landmarks Conservancy. "Paul Crotty and Verizon displayed an incredible commitment to the restoration of this very important New York City landmark, returning to all its original glory, a beautiful building and a magnificent landmarked lobby."

After two years of careful restoration efforts, which included restoring intricate bronze detailing and reconstructing the frieze on the eastern facade, the lobby was completed in 2003. Verizon and its contractors were also honored by the New York Landmarks Conservancy with a Lucy G. Moses Preservation Award on May 10.

Crotty has had an illustrious career in both the public and private sectors. Prior to joining Verizon, Crotty served as Corporation Counsel to Mayor Giuliani and Commissioner of the Office of Financial Services.

The Chairman's Award is given annually to a business leader or company that has demonstrated a commitment to preservation.