Mayor Bill de Blasio is reportedly aiming for the 172-acre Governors Island development, The Real Deal has reported.
The Governors Island which measures 900,000 square feet is located in Upper New York Bay and is primed for development. Based on The Real Deal's report, it is not clear yet of what type of project will take place but it could be anywhere from a tech hub, a cultural institution or an educational facility. It is expected that the mayor will make his announcement during his State of the City Speech on Thursday night.
It is said that the Governors Island has long been planned by Blasio to be developed but because of the residential development being prohibited as well as the difficult transportation, it was a bit of a challenge to start the project. Because of these infrastructure difficulties also, commercial tenants have moved away from the Island.
The Trust for Governors Island, the agency responsible for developing the island, is reportedly going to issue ideas. Aside from that, request for bidders will be open at the later part of the year. Construction and development of the Island is expected to start in 2019.
The Trust welcomes Mayor Bill de Blasio's plans to advance the Governors Island, making it a place for enjoyment and relaxation to the general public, according to the report from NYC's official website.
A big part of the city's history, the Island attracts thousands of tourists and visitors from different parts of the world drawn by its verdant perks and recreational opportunities. The plan to develop the island is a big step to make it a destination where arts, education and culture of the city are showcased all-year round.
At one summer season, many New Yorkers have discovered the beauty of the Governors Island and it is already considered a part of New York's DNA and the people are now ready and excited for its new chapter.
