But Floyd's criticism extends beyond the actual project to the politics of the approval process. The architect said she was very upset that the proper architectural authorities were not informed of the Boston Landmark Commission's hearing on the issue.

The commission is charged with protecting the city's landmark buildings and ensuring that change does not take place without public debate. The commission may delay, but not reject building projects in historic areas.

"Something has slipped in the system. Its very strange because the Preservation Alliance is supposed to be informed," she said. "Experts are supposed to be notified about hearing like this, but that step was not taken."

According to Ellen Lipsey, executive director of the commission, the commission held a hearing in September on the issue. When no opposition was heard, the commission voted on September 27 not to take action on the cage demolition.

"[At the hearing Harvard officials] talked about most of the land over there being water-logged and they looked at moving it but couldn't," Lipsey said.

"They explained the development of the complex and how the building did not fit in. The commission felt that Harvard had looked at the alternatives in good faith and found that they were not viable," she said.

Historians differ over the significance of the Cage, although scholars agree that it was build by one of two major architectural firms during the 1890s.

According to Charles Sullivan, director of the Cambridge Historical Commission, the building was the first on the Soldier Field athletic complex.

Athletic Significance

Coaches and athletes differed yesterday on the significance of the decision to the athletic program.

Tim Murphy, head football coach, said he could not comment on the specifics of the move, which he said he would examine after the end of the football season.

"I thing in the long-run is a very positive addition, and in the short-run we will endure some hard-ships," Murphy said. "Trying to fit all student athletes into a new facility is the obvious space problem in the short-run."

In addition, Garber added that his concern was how to make the Gordon weight arrangement accessible to both varsity and recreational users, although the current recreational facility will have to be replaced.

Athletes contacted expressed a wide-range of emotions, although many said they were disappointed.

"Everyone is disappointed...all sports.," said running back Eion Hu '97. "It was very comfortable, everyone could see everyone, they had mirrors..now I guess they're going to throw everyone in the ITT."