“Today’s vote of the City Planning Commission to approve the transformation of the long-underutilized Kingsbridge Armory from a vacant building into thriving retail complex is a big step towards our plan to bring thousands of jobs to the Bronx. The Armory has been closed to the public for decades, but now we have an enormous opportunity to revitalize it as a hub of activity and jobs in the West Bronx. We don’t want to let that opportunity – or any more time – pass by without progress.

“The project represents a tremendous vote of confidence and commitment from the private sector, with an investment of $310 million. It will provide significant benefits to the community, including specialty and local retail shops, a public plaza, dedicated community space, restaurants, a recreational facility and a seasonal farmers’ market, all while creating 1,200 permanent jobs and more than 1,000 construction jobs at a time when we need them most. The Kingsbridge Armory Redevelopment Task Force and Advisory Committee – made up of elected officials and community leaders – has consistently helped shape and improve the project. It now goes to the City Council for review with the approval of Bronx Community Board Seven, which voted to approve the project in July, and the City Planning Commission.”