EDC reissued request for development proposals after community opposed first plan. On October 18, 2006, the New York City Economic Development Corporation reissued a request for proposals for a six-acre lot in East Harlem bounded by East 125th and 127th Streets and Third and Second Avenues after the community opposed the original winning plan.

The six-acre proposed site currently contains an MTA bus storage facility, which the selected developer must move underground, as well as local businesses. The City owns 81 percent of the project site and the EDC is working on the acquisition of the remaining lots through purchases or condemnation. City Planning is currently working on its East 125th Street/River-to-River study, a planning effort aimed at generating a development framework for the entire span of 125th Street between the Harlem and Hudson Rivers. (read more…)

EDC seeks proposals to convert historic Bronx armory to a mixed-use facility. On September 26, 2006, the City’s Economic Development Corporation released a request for proposals for the sale and redevelopment of the Kingsbridge Armory located on the southwest corner of 195th Street and Jerome Avenue in the Bronx. Reportedly the largest Armory in the world, the main floor is larger than a full city block, and is comprised entirely of an immense 300-foot by 600-foot open room with 110 foot ceilings. The building’s two basements add an additional 312,000 sq.ft. of space, giving the entire facility an impressive 575,000 sq.ft. The Armory, designated a City landmark in 1994, features two towering battlement towers, Romanesque arches, and intricate brick and terra cotta detailing.

A task force comprised of City, state, and federal officials as well as community stakeholders will facilitate the selection process. The task force is seeking proposals for a mixed-use development that will complement existing uses in the area, provide quality jobs for area residents, and promote economic growth without directly competing with existing businesses. Proposals must consider the nearby “education mile” where well over 20,000 elementary, middle, high school, and college students attend classes each day. The taskforce has encouraged bids to include commercial, entertainment, recreation, and community uses. Residential and educational uses are not permitted. The project should also restore the Armory’s historic facade and incorporate principles of sustainable design. (read more…)