The former Spofford Juvenile Detention Center in Hunts Point, in the Bronx, is now being demolished to make way for a 740-unit affordable housing complex called the Peninsula. City officials celebrated the start of demolition earlier today, and the massive mixed-use development replacing the detention center will be built in three phases in the coming years.
The city’s Economic Development Corporation awarded the development contract to a consortium comprised of Gilbane Development, Hudson Companies and Mutual Housing Association of New York (MHANY) back in 2016. The development team will transform the site into a 5-acre project comprised of 52,000 square feet of open space, 50,000 square feet of community facilities, another 50,000 square feet of industrial space, and 20,000 square feet of commercial space.
“For so many years, this site was the physical and emotional embodiment of rampant violence and crime in the Hunts Point community,” said City Council member Rafael Salamanca, Jr., who represents the neighborhood. “Transforming the Spofford Juvenile Detention Center into La Peninsula, a vibrant hub for the community with 100% affordable housing, commercial and retail spaces, is a testament to the work of community, city and state leaders who have helped make this a reality.”
Construction on the project will get underway in winter 2019, and wrap up in three phases by 2024. The development is being designed by WXY architecture + urban design and Body Lawson Associates.
Loading comments...