Excerpts

EXCERPTS FROM A LETTER TO ASSEMBLYMAN VITO LOPEZ

October 25, 2007

Dear Assemblyman Lopez:

There is now a widespread recognition of the housing crisis that threatens all artists in New York City. Traditionally, artists have moved into areas that are dangerous, dilapidated, or otherwise undesirable, seeking low rents. By their presence, the artists raise the real estate values of these neighborhoods. When the rents go up, the artists are forced to move to other neighborhoods. The present crisis comes about because these neighborhoods have become far more scarce. Given the present situation, artists will not be able to remain in New York City. Government-subsidized buildings for artists would solve this problem and make it possible for artists to continue to contribute to the culture of the city.

Musicians need soundproof live/work units so that they can do their creative work without disturbing neighbors. Musicians also need a place to perform where they can present their music without the pressure of marketing considerations.

We musicians are aware that those people who are in neighborhoods that become havens for artists will be ultimately forced to leave these neighborhoods when the property values rise (the artists will be forced to leave, also). For this reason, a false antagonism has arisen between neighborhood residents and the artists. We want to address this issue by including in our building an outreach program, offering free musical services to the people in the neighborhood.

This would be a groundbreaking project. It would serve as a paradigm and as a cultural magnet. It would be a beacon—not just here in New York City, but worldwide. Anyone contributing to this project would be giving enormous value to the future of the culture in this city.

Sincerely yours,
Connie Crothers