MTA wants to bring mixed-use development to Brooklyn rail corridor

The MTA has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to develop a mixed-use project above 3.8 acre section of the LIRR’s Bay Ridge Branch freight rail corridor, reports Bklyner.

The MTA is looking to transform the site, located on 61st Street between Fort Hamilton Parkway and Eighth Avenue, into a mixed use development with both affordable and market-rate apartments, retail space, office space, and parking.

The announcement also states that proposals should “maintain the character of the neighborhood” and that the project would have to be built on a platform that spans over the railroad tracks with 22 feet of overhead clearance, since “current and future” freight rail operations still need to be maintained.

“Affordable housing is desperately needed in the neighborhood and I applaud the MTA for issuing this proposal to build new housing opportunities,” said Senator Simcha Felder in a press release.

The deadline to respond to the RFP is Friday, April 27, 2018.

• MTA Releases RFP For Residential Development Above 61st Street Freight Rail Tracks [Bklyner]