Renovation and Restoration of the Alexander U.S. Custom House
In 1973, the federal government moved the Customs Service to 6 World Trade Center, providing an anchor tenant for the newly-built complex. With its future uncertain, the Custom House was left empty and unmaintained. In 1976, the New York Landmarks Conservancy launched a movement to rouse interest and public concern for the building and help identify a new purpose for this monumental edifice.
In 1981, while the debate over the future use of the building continued, the U.S. General Services Administration, owner and manager of the property, responded to the public’s concern and began a $60 million renovation/restoration project at the Custom House.
Completed in four phases that spanned a period of 12 years, this all-encompassing project provided a structurally sound building that could continue to serve the needs of the federal government for years to come. In addition to upgrading all building systems, the roof was repaired, windows replaced, and exterior masonry repointed. Public corridors were restored and public restrooms constructed.
The fine and decorative art restoration included Marsh’s Rotunda murals, Garnsey’s Great Hall murals, and decorative surfaces in the Collector’s Suite. All exterior sculpture was conserved.
Interior space was prepared for tenant occupancy, including offices and courtrooms, judge’s chambers and ancillary spaces for the U.S. Bankruptcy Court. In addition, a 350-seat auditorium and suite of conference rooms were constructed in the basement.
In 1987, while work in other areas of the building continued, the U.S. Bankruptcy Court was ensconced in its newly renovated space on the fifth and sixth floor. In 1994, after the completion of the project, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian, George Gustav Heye Center moved into the first and second floor spaces. Since then other federal agencies have also established offices in the building and, in 2003, U.S. Customs and Border Protection returned to its roots and re-established a lower Manhattan office there.
