Historic armory to become retail center, complete with movie theaters and restaurants. On April 21, 2008, the City selected Related Companies to convert the Kingsbridge Armory, a City landmark located on the corner of 195th Street and Jerome Avenue in the Bronx, into a $310 million shopping center. The center will include a large department store, up to 35 smaller shops, a movie theater, and restaurants.

The Armory features two battlement towers, Romanesque arches, and intricate brick and terra-cotta detailing. Reportedly the largest armory in the world, the main floor is larger than a full City block and consists entirely of an immense 180,000-square-foot open room with 110-foot-tall ceilings. The Armory’s two basements add an additional 312,000 sq.ft. of space, giving the entire building an impressive 575,000 sq.ft.

On September 26, 2006, the New York City Economic Development Corporation issued a request for proposals for the sale and redevelopment of the historic building. A task force—comprised of City, State, and federal officials, as well as community stakeholders—facilitated the selection process. The task force sought proposals that offered a mixed-use development to complement existing uses and businesses in the area, provided quality jobs for area residents, and promoted economic growth. 3 CityLand 143 (Oct. 15, 2006).

Related must now submit its plan to Landmarks and the New York State Historic Preservation Office for approvals. The plan is also subject to the City’s land use review procedure.

EDC: Press Release (Apr. 21, 2008); Request For Proposals – Kingsbridge Armory (Sept. 26, 2006).