Urban Archaeology is the systematic recovery and examination of material evidence from the city’s past.  Remnants of human activity -- structures, artifacts, and other remains -- which are often buried under subsequent layers of development, illuminate and augment the information already available through historical documents.  For more information follow the link below to About Urban Archaeology.

The Archaeology Department consists of three professional archaeologists who review subsurface work subject to environmental review regulations and, for some sites, the Landmarks Law.  If important archaeological resources are threatened, the department determines and oversees appropriate mitigation.  For a fuller explanation of the review process, please see the Guidelines for Archaeological Work in New York City. 

The Archaeology Department maintains a repository of archaeological reports that were completed for projects reviewed by the agency.  The reports, which are listed in the links below, are organized by borough, and then by author and/or the cultural resources firm that produced the report.  If you would like to read these reports, please complete the Appointment for Records Access form and then fax it to (212) 669-7818 to schedule an appointment at the Commission.