The Clocktower

The Clocktower

The Clocktower currently serves as a federal office building. It houses numerous federal institutions that are too boring to list. However, the Clocktower also has a more dynamic and interesting history. In the 70’s, PS1 director Alanna Heiss decided to open her first alternative art space in the Clocktower Building in order to bolster appreciation for contemporary art in that community. The Clocktower gallery became an instant success, drawing scores of people from the neighborhood to engulf themselves in this new art scene. After September 11th, security at the building was tightened up, and the gallery space was unfortunately altered to only accommodate private parties. PS1 still retains an office in the building, and it is the headquarters for WPS1 radio, the most dynamic internet radio station in the world. WPS1 broadcasts live from the top floor of the building. The Clocktower itself is a spectacular architectural specimen. The roof has some of the most impressive gargoyles in the entire city, and the views of Manhattan are also spectacular.