You are reading

Demolition of 5 Pointz–expected to take 3 months– started today

Aug. 22, 2014 Staff Report

The graffiti Mecca 5 Pointz is finally coming down– after more than a year of controversy surrounding its fate.

A demolition crew came out this morning and started bulldozing a section of it down– in a job that is expected to take three months.

Gerry Wolkoff, the developer who is erecting two high-rise residential towers in its place, said today that once the demolition is complete he will start putting down the foundations for the new buildings.

Wolkoff said that he had not spoken to the artists prior to the demolition.

The artwork at 5 Pointz, however, was destroyed in November when Wolkoff whitewashed the building, which he said at the time was to reduce problems come demolition time. His critics said he was guilty of “art crimes” and held a candlelight vigil.

The City Council approved Wolkoff’s application to build a larger building than zoning code permitted last October– after a number of public hearings where artists and art supporters wanted the 5 Pointz building preserved.

George Burles, a local resident, shot the following video prior to the building being whitewashed.

5 Pointz – Gone for Good Now from George on Vimeo.

email the author: news@queenspost.com
No comments yet

Leave a Comment
Reply to this Comment

All comments are subject to moderation before being posted.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Recent News

Spring blooms bright in Queens: your guide to cherry blossom hotspots around the borough

Apr. 1, 2025 By Jessica Militello

Cherry blossoms are already blooming across Queens, marking the arrival of spring. The sight of the delicate pink flowers marks the start of the special season in Queens, letting admirers take photos or simply appreciate the cherry blossoms’ beauty. The season, while brief, offers a chance to slow down and enjoy nature’s beauty and appreciate its fleeting nature. The cherry blossom isn’t just pretty to look at; the flower has tons of symbolism and history to learn about to make you enjoy them even more this Spring.