Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. praised the Governor Cuomo’s Regional Economic Development Council for selecting 13 Bronx and borough-related projects as top development priorities for the City and the State.
More than half of the $66.2 million, almost $37 million, allocated by the Regional Economic Development Council for New York City will go to the Bronx. This includes $29.5 million that will be used for the redevelopment of the Hunts Point Produce Market, as well as smaller grants for other borough projects.
“I am extremely gratified that both Governor Cuomo and our State’s economic development leadership understand the importance of the Hunts Point Produce Market not only as a transformative economic engine for the Bronx, but for the entire region. Investing in the market and building a new 21st century facility will both preserve and create jobs here in the Bronx while also expanding opportunities for upstate farmers.
“Today’s announcement brings us one step closer to maintaining and growing one of the largest industries of the Bronx.” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.
Other projects selected include $1.125 million to the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation for the St. Mary’s Recreation Center “Green Streets & Green Roots” project, as well as $1 million each for the Praxis affordable housing development on White Plains Road and an affordable housing development on East 144th Street.
“These grants today show just how important the State considers the Bronx and the role our borough will play in the future economic growth of New York State. I look forward to continuing to work with the City and the State to foster positive economic development in the Bronx,” said Borough President Diaz.