Archives of the Mayor's Press Office

Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani and Council Speaker Peter F. Vallone announced today the designation of Hudson Development LLC to create a $25 million, 400,000-square-foot facility for the printing industry in Queens to be called The Graphic Communications Center at College Point.

"This designation is an important step toward ensuring the future of the printing and graphics arts industry in New York City," said Mayor Giuliani. "By creating a state-of-the-art facility for printers, graphic artists, binders and related companies in Queens, we are providing a viable option for companies that may be forced to relocate from Manhattan in the next few years."

Speaker Peter F. Vallone said, "New York City owes much of its success to the graphics and arts industry and we cannot let this invaluable sector leave our City. Now, more than ever, it is vital that we support development in the outer boroughs, particularly since many companies are now looking for new, permanent sites for their businesses. This facility will stand as a monument to the resilience of every New York company that continues to thrive, and to the energy and strength of our community."

Hudson Development plans to construct a modern, high-tech, two-story facility on a seven-acre site located within the College Point Corporate Park at the intersection of College Point Boulevard and 31st Avenue to house printing industry-related companies. The development will include private, off-street parking and loading facilities, as well as an attractive landscaped entrance plaza.

Construction on the new facility is expected to begin this summer and be completed in the spring of 2003. A number of premier printing firms have already expressed interest in new The Graphic Communications Center, which also has the backing of the Association of Graphic Communications, a major trade association of the printing industry.

"The Association of Graphic Communications is very excited about this project," said Vicki Keenan, Vice President. "It has great potential as a permanent site for the graphic communications community. We are committed to working with EDC and Hudson Development to move this project forward and ensure its success."

"This project will be a very appropriate complement to College Point Corporate Park," said Robert M. Harding, Deputy Mayor for Economic Development. "Since 1997, the Park has been home to more than 500 employees of the New York Times' state-of-the-art printing and distribution facility. Several other printing related companies are also located there, including the World Journal, the most widely read Chinese-language newspaper in North America."

Hudson Development was selected for this project as a result of a Request for Proposals (RFP) issued by the New York City Economic Development Corporation (EDC) on behalf of the City. The Hudson Development team has extensive experience in the development and construction of commercial and industrial projects in the New York-metro area. Its roster of projects include two similar projects: the Monarch Industrial Park, a 525,000-square-foot industrial complex, and the Supreme Industrial Park, a 320,000-square-foot manufacturing and warehousing facility, both located in Sunset Park, Brooklyn.

"We are very excited to once again have the opportunity to work with EDC on another commercial project," said Daniel Gleich of Hudson Development. "This project presents an excellent opportunity for the printing industry because of its proximity to Manhattan, several major highways and airports, as well as the diverse mix of businesses and residents in the College Point area."

"Companies moving into the Graphic Communications Center may take advantage of incentive programs established under the leadership of Mayor Giuliani to help businesses to stay and grow in the City," said EDC President Michael G. Carey. "For example, the newly expanded Commercial Expansion Program provides qualified companies with tax credits, rent abatements and low-cost energy programs."

The 550-acre College Point Corporate Park is managed by EDC and is one of New York City's most successful business addresses. Located in northern Queens, it combines the advantages of a bustling urban location with the amenities of a convenient suburban environment. It is home to more than 175 companies with approximately 5,500 employees.

EDC is the City's primary vehicle for economic development. Using its real estate and financial resources, EDC helps develop businesses and create jobs throughout the five boroughs. EDC is also responsible for the sale of City-owned land for economic development.

For further information and leasing opportunities at The Graphic Communications Center @ College Point, contact Daniel Gleich of Hudson Development at (212) 897-1000.

www.nyc.gov