Sunshine Under Siege

Park-goers at Madison Square Park, a rare patch of green in the Flatiron district, may soon be robbed of their sunshine. A new residential tower called The Saya, expected to open in 2008 on the southeast corner of the park, 20 East 23rd Street, will soar above neighboring buildings to 47 stories, or about 600 feet. A study by Columbia University shows The Saya casting a noontime shadow that extends diagonally through the park throughout the year, barring the start of summer. The developer, Slazer Enterprises, bought air rights from three surrounding buildings, allowing it to build beyond normal height restrictions. Opponents of the project, including Councilmember Rosie Mendez, say the city needs to reevaluate zoning laws that allow developers to build disproportionately tall buildings. Residents have sent at least 150 letters appealing to city officials to intervene, said Maxine Teitler, a block resident campaigning against the new structure. “We’re not saying you shouldn’t be able to build high rises,” she said. “But this is ridiculous.” The Saya’s 90 apartments are expected to start at $1 million.—Mike McPhate