New York City has long been associated with skyscrapers: symbols of grandeur, success, commerce, and a workplace for many. These iconic edifices have often provided the public a bird’s eye view of the surroundings.

But the constructions of today are of a different breed. They are arrogantly tall with dizzying price tags and they are private residences. Fifty-seventh street has recently been dubbed Billionaires’ Row . The views from the top are now reserved for only those individuals who can afford them.

Additional controversies of these elitist structures ensue. Many argue that their heights will block rays of sun that once shone on Central Park.

In more ways than one, the public is being left in the shadows.