US Congressman Joe Crowley (D-Queens, the Bronx) applauded the announcement by Governor Cuomo that Hunts Point Terminal Produce Cooperative (also called the Hunts Point Market) will receive $29.5 million to modernize its facility through the New York City Regional Council’s plan to grow the economy and create jobs in New York City. An advocate for Hunts Point Market, Crowley recently called on U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Ray LaHood to swiftly approve a critical transportation infrastructure grant for the Market.
“Not only are these state funds an investment in the Hunts Point Market, they are also an investment in the entire Bronx community. I thank Governor Cuomo and the New York City Regional Council for recognizing just how critical a revitalized Hunts Point Market is to the Bronx and all of New York City and I urge the DOT to follow suit,” said Rep. Crowley. “The Hunts Point Market has been a mainstay in the Bronx for over 40 years, and we must take every step possible to ensure that the market continues to have a strong and prosperous future in the Bronx.”
Since 1967, thousands of Bronxites – and millions of New Yorkers – have depended on the Market for fresh produce and goods. The Market also provides thousands of jobs in the Bronx community and helps boost economic activity in the area. Recognizing the need for Hunts Point to modernize its facilities and infrastructure, Rep. Crowley urged Secretary LaHood to support NYC’s Economic Development Council’s TIGER III grant application for Hunts Point during a call last week. The application calls for $35 million in DOT funds to modernize freight rail and improve internal circulation at the Hunts Point Market.
“The initiatives proposed in this grant application will make much-needed improvements to the Market and will create hundreds of new jobs,” said Crowley. “That’s why I personally spoke with Secretary LaHood about what is going on at the Market and how I would like the federal government to be a partner in the effort to revitalize Hunts Point. This is exactly the kind of investment the government should make to boost our economy and put people back to work.”