Plan to create 1,000 Bronx apartments near Yankee Stadium moves forward

Plans to bring more 1,000 apartments to a waterfront site in the Bronx, not too far from Yankee Stadium, have inched forward with community board approval, Crain’s reports. Located right below Mill Pond Park and above the 145th Street Bridge, an empty four-acre lot could see the creation of 1,045 apartments (affordable and market-rate), commercial space, and more parkland.

The land is owned by the city, and the Economic Development Corporation, which is leading the charge on the project, is hoping for a rezoning approval to move it forward forward. Local residents, however, have previously expressed hesitation because this lot was supposed to be converted into parkland fully, which was promised as part of a deal to build the new Yankee Stadium.

However, the city may have expanded or further elaborated on their proposal by the time it presented the plans to the local community board this past week. The board approved the rezoning effort, which now also includes several acres of new parkland (previously only residential and commercial space had been mentioned).

The proposal will now have to be voted on by Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., but the ultimate decision lies with the City Council, particularly Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito, who represents the area. Local residents and activists unhappy with the project had previously approached her asking her to nix the initiative as it makes its way through the approvals process.

But perhaps a promise of some new park space will change things? If the approvals process proves successful, the city will select a developer for this area known as Lower Concourse North.

• Massive Bronx waterfront site scores key approval [Crain’s]
• Promised South Bronx parkland could become affordable housing instead [Curbed]