Affordable Housing Projects Planned Near The Botanical Garden in the Bronx

NEW YORK—After being selected as the winning developer from a Request for Proposals issued by The New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx, Douglaston Development of New York City reports it will begin construction this year on a two-phased mixed-use project a block from the facility’s 250-acre grounds.

Douglaston is entering into a 99-year lease with the NYBG on the development sites.

“Douglaston is thrilled to begin a new partnership with The New York Botanical Garden on this community-driven development,” said Jeffrey Levine, founder and chairman of Douglaston Development. “We are looking forward to continuing to expand upon our Bronx footprint through a project that will not only bring more affordable housing options to the area, but additional benefits to the greater community.”

The first phase of development will include a more than 188-unit affordable senior housing structure at 2856 Webster Ave. that will be available to those earning up to 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Additionally, on-site social services will be provided through the Fordham Bedford Community Services.

Phase two of construction, will include approximately 260 affordable rental units earning between 30% to 130% of the AMI to be built at 410 Bedford Park Blvd. The overall project will take approximately two years to complete once construction commences.

The ground floors of each building will include the current Cherry Valley grocery operating out of its new 20,000-square-foot grocery store.

2856 Webster Ave. and 410 Bedford Park Blvd. are located on an acre-plus piece of land owned by The New York Botanical Garden situated on the southeast corner of Webster Avenue and Bedford Park Boulevard located in Bronx Community District 7. Following the rezoning of the land (the previous zoning restricted Webster Avenue to heavy commercial uses), a second public-planning process was facilitated by the New York City Economic Development Corporation. This process led to the Webster Avenue Vision Plan, which is being brought to fruition via development and the promotion of mixed-income housing in the area.