On the eve of the due date for Kingsbridge Armory proposals, community activists plan a rally today in hopes of getting a bidder to bring living wages and a new school to the site, the New York Daily News reported, even as a plan for a winter sports complex gained traction.
The Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition and the Kingsbridge Armory Redevelopment Alliance, which defeated a shopping mall plan for the site three years ago, will rally and pray for community access to the armory, jobs at the armory that pay living wages and a new school.
However, in a separate report, the Daily News said the Kingsbridge National Ice Center team, backed by Rangers legend Mark Messier and Olympic skater Sarah Hughes and funded by Deustche Bank investors, that wants to remake the armory into an ice sports center has earned the ears and praises of local council members, the community board, and Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr.
Another proposal that’s gaining steam would turn the armory into a sports center with basketball, rock climbing and cycling.
Other bidders include a plan to bring a church and shops to the 500,000-square-foot landmark, and Vornado Realty Trust may bid to buy or lease it, the Daily News said. [NYDN] and [NYDN]