Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and Governor George E. Pataki today joined the Majic Development Group and 1800 Park Ave LLC development teams to break ground on Harlem Park, a 660,000 square-foot mixed use complex that will combine a Marriot Courtyard Hotel with retail, office and 109,000 square feet of residential on a vacant lot at 125th Street and Park Avenue.  The $236 million project will create 1,500 construction jobs and 1,000 permanent jobs and is expected to open in late 2006.  The Mayor and Governor were also joined by Empire State Development Corporation Chairman Charles Gargano,  Majic Development Corporation Chairman Michael Caridi, architect Enrique Norten and Marriott International Senior Vice President Dave Sampson.

"Breaking ground on this magnificent project marks another great step in the economic revival of Harlem," said Mayor Bloomberg.  "With crime falling to historic lows, our schools improving and our streets getting cleaner, Harlem is becoming more vibrant and better than ever.  This $236 million dollar facility with its hotel, shops and residential units proves beyond a doubt that Harlem's renaissance is moving forward at full speed."

"This dynamic mixed-use development will be situated in the heart of Harlem, in an ideal location that will draw more people to live, work and raise their families in this vibrant community," said Governor Pataki. "The development of Harlem Park is another huge step forward in the continued revitalization of Harlem, further underscoring the importance of public-private partnerships as we continue to rejuvenate this historic neighborhood."

Designed by world-renowned architect Enrique Norton of Ten Arquitectos/MDA Designgroup, Harlem Park will feature The Offices at Harlem Park (167,000 square feet of "Class A" office space), The Shoppes at Harlem Park (a 62,000 square foot retail center), 100 residential units, a 1,200-seat meeting/banquet facility, a health club and spa with an outdoor pool facility, and a two-level underground parking garage.  At street level, the retail section will wrap around the building to attract pedestrian activity.

"Harlem Park will be a multi-functional landmark building in this area and serve as a gateway to the area," said Charles Gargano. "There is a definite need for more office, retail and hotel space in Harlem and this project will create hundreds of jobs."

"Harlem is more than a community with a rich history - it is a community that has helped to drive history - and that's why it is vital to create something special for future generations," said Michael Caridi.  "Harlem Park builds a bridge between East and West Harlem and will provide an infusion of capital and new jobs into the community, attracting Fortune 500 companies and leading retail brands."

The Marriott will commit to hiring Harlem residents for 25% of its jobs and to minority employment of 50% of the hourly employees.  They will also commit to 25% of Minority and Women Business Enterprise (MWBE) participation in procurement of goods and services to the hotel and will sponsor a Harlem Recruitment Day before the launch their general outreach.

The developer, 1800 Park Avenue LLC, has been approved for sales and mortgage recording tax benefits totaling $8.5 million from the New York City Industrial Development Agency.