MoMA 82-story tower approved by NYC Council

NEW YORK (AP) - A proposal for a new 82-story tower next to the Museum of Modern Art has cleared its final hurdle.

The New York City Council voted Wednesday to approve the plan for a 1000-foot mixed-use tower on West 53rd Street between Fifth and Sixth avenues.

The museum called the approval "a major milestone" for its plans to add over 40,000 square feet of new gallery space - a 30 percent increase.

The building plan by the Hines developer also calls for 150 apartments and 100 hotel rooms.

Architect Jean Nouvel designed the tower, which tapers as it rises to a spire.