Bronx, NY — New York City-based construction firm Eastman Cooke has been hired by Equity One, Inc. to construct a $9.6 million, 34,000-sq. ft. retail building on Broadway in the Bronx. The J Companies will act as owners representatives for Equity One. The design has been provided by SBLM Architects. This two-story structure, which will accommodate Blink Fitness, Starbucks and other tenants, is being developed as an extension of Broadway Plaza, a larger Equity One retail space that currently houses Sports Authority, Party City, TJ Maxx, Five Below and others.

The new retail building will fill a previously empty lot that once housed a gas station, adding to the recent boom in development in the Kingsbridge area of the Bronx. Project Superintendent Art Shumann says that area residents are excited about the project.

“People ask us every day when it will be done,” says Shumann. “They tell us they can’t wait to use the gym and have the other retailers in the neighborhood.”

Because of the complexities of the site’s location adjacent to the Broadway Plaza property as well as an elevated subway, the project requires close coordination and creativity from Eastman Cooke, Equity One and the public agencies involved.

“Logistically, it’s a tough site,” says Peter Morandi, President and CEO of Eastman Cooke. “We have to be creative in our approach, given the limitations that we have. A considerable amount of time has gone into the collaboration of the design and engineering, in order to come up with a plan that will work for Equity One and the future tenants.”

Because of the proximity to the elevated subway and the existing buildings, drilled piles are required for foundation support. High-strength concrete and steel is being used for the base structure, and a mix of storefront glass, brick veneer, EIFS and aluminum panels will make up the exterior.   The team is working closely with the DOT, DEC, DOB and the MTA to obtain all required permits.

Eastman Cooke is thrilled to be part of this area’s surge in retail development, and is also engaged to complete the interior work for the tenants as well.

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For more information about Eastman Cooke and the Equity One project, contact Peter Morandi at 212-265-2191, or visit eastmancooke.com.