The Landmarks Preservation Commission is the New York City agency responsible for identifying and designating the city's landmarks and the buildings in the city's historic districts. The Commission also regulates changes to designated buildings. The agency consists of eleven Commissioners and about fifty full-time staff members, including architects, architectural historians, restoration specialists, planners, and archaeologists, as well as administrative, legal, and clerical personnel. Although it is one of the smallest New York City agencies, the Commission is the largest municipal preservation agency in the United States. The Landmarks Preservation Commission was established by the Landmarks Law in 1965 in order to:
- Safeguard the city's historic, aesthetic, and cultural heritage.
- Help stabilize and improve property values in historic districts.
- Encourage civic pride in the beauty and accomplishments of the past.
- Protect and enhance the city's attractions for tourists.
- Strengthen the city's economy.
- Promote the use of landmarks for the education, pleasure, and welfare of the people of New York City
