A Conversation with Andrew Berman: The “Cher” of Preservation – Podcast #27

Wrecking Ball Series Episode 5

In this fast-paced episode of our podcast series Wrecking Ball, host and creator Adrian Untermyer, Esq. discusses the present and future of historic preservation advocacy in New York with Andrew Berman, whose name is now shorthand for New York’s history-saving movement after leading the venerable Greenwich Village Society for Historic Preservation (now “Village Preservation”) for a quarter-century — thereby earning his new nickname as “The ‘Cher’ of Preservation.” Berman describes his decades at the intersection of historic preservation, the law, and the great City and State of New York, beginning with his upbringing in the Bronx, continuing with his study of architectural history in school, and broadening into the world of politics and policy in his roles with New York City Councilman and State Senator Tom Duane. Untermyer and Berman also consider the ingredients of a successful preservation “stew” balancing economic growth and affordable housing with the elements of neighborhood character that make a place worth living. Also included in this installment are case studies of St. Vincent’s Hospital, the “Weathermen House,” and university expansions, together with a whopping two quotes in our beloved final segment, “Your Daily Ada Louise.” So get your OMNY card ready as we explore Greenwich Village’s vibrant preservation advocacy scene in 2025 and beyond!