[antinimby]

Eh, what makes it popular is the signage, history and prominence (New Year's Eve ball drop is seen all over the world). If some of the older buildings were around (like the Astor hotel), it'll still be just as popular.

One can argue that the newer buildings will make TS less unique. More and more, cities all over the world are doing their versions of TS and eventually, it's the older buildings in NY with their longer history is what will differentiate NY from many of the newer Johnny-come-lately cities.