Douglas Durst

Background and expertise: Third-generation family member to run The Durst Organization, pioneering environmentally responsible design and building practices in New York City such as the creation of 4 Times Square at 42nd Street and Broadway, The Helena, a 600 unit residential building at 57th Street and 11th Avenue (LEED gold), The New School’s University Center (expected LEED gold), and the Bank of America Tower at 1 Bryant Park (LEED platinum); graduated in1962 from the Fieldston School and in 1966 from the University of California-Berkeley, where he studied economics and learned civil disobedience; member of the board of directors of the Roundabout Theater, Primary Stages, and The New School; serves on the Real Estate Board of New York and as chair of Earthday New York; part-owner of the largest organic farm in New York State and co-founder of New York Water Taxi.

Why I believe in protecting land and creating parks: “As an urban builder, supporting parks and open space is essential to the success of my family’s business. Building big, tall, and dense is how we preserve the green space that makes our cities livable and our environment viable for generations to come.”

Why I support The Trust for Public Land: “The Trust for Public Land is the premiere land conservation and public green space developer in the United States. Their mission is clear, their staff is motivated and informed, and their results are extraordinary.”