A lawsuit seeking to block online grocer FreshDirect’s move to the Harlem River Yards in the Bronx has been dismissed, according to a press release issued by the company.
“I am thrilled to learn that the plaintiff’s legal efforts to thwart FreshDirect’s relocation to our borough have been stopped, and their lawsuit has been dismissed,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz.
The group South Bronx Unite had tried suing the Long Island City-based FreshDirect to prevent the company from building a distribution center in the Port Morris neighborhood, alleging that the grocer wouldn’t pay air wages and that its trucks would pollute the community.
Albany, City Hall and the Bronx borough president’s office had promised FreshDirect nearly $130 million in grants and tax breaks in order to thwart efforts by New Jersey officials to lure the company there.
“We’re Very Happy That The Court has recognized that the environmental review was proper and in accordance with the law,” said FreshDirect CEO Jason Ackerman. “We are eager to move forward with our plans to bring thousands of jobs to the Bronx and make it easier for people to get fresh food.” – Hiten Samtani