The Congregation Shearith Israel Synagogue, at 8 West 70th Street on the corner of Central Park West, recieved the nod from the Landmarks Preservation Commission for its proposed 10-story tower on the site of what is currently its communiity house. The synagogue must also pass through the Board of Standards and Appeals to begin demolition and construction.

Preservation group Landmark West has been opposed to this project, citing its scale on a block where most buildings are no higher than five stories. The original plan (pictured) was 15 stories, but community outcry forced the synagogue to reduce it.

Next stop for the project is Community Board 7's land-use committee, which hasn't yet calendared it.

-Matthew Grace