The East 149th Street Development stands as a landmark project, redefining a once underutilized industrial pocket within Mott Haven, Bronx. Spearheaded by Signature Urban Properties and Monadnock Development, with architectural design led by Dattner Architects, this ambitious mixed-use development is injecting new vitality into the 149th Street commercial corridor. This transformative project comprises three distinct buildings, thoughtfully designed to integrate affordable housing with modern office and retail spaces, catering to the evolving needs of the local community.
Completed in 2017, the 530 Exterior Street building marks the western gateway to this development. This 13-story tower offers 157 affordable housing units, setting a precedent for the quality and scale of the project. Following in 2018, 491 Gerard Avenue, a 12-story building, added another 153 affordable units, complemented by a residential terrace. Both residential buildings present a diverse mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, ensuring options for various family sizes and needs. Residents benefit from amenities such as fitness centers, bicycle storage, and shared landscaped courtyards, fostering a sense of community and well-being within the development.
The final piece of this transformative development is 110 East 149th Street. This building introduces five floors of contemporary office space and ground-floor retail opportunities to the area. Designed with a focus on maximizing tenant flexibility and functionality, the building features an efficient layout with the circulation and mechanical core strategically positioned. The design thoughtfully incorporates natural light, enhancing the workspace environment. The façade itself is a striking feature, with sections “peeled away” and highlighted by colored accents and expansive glass, offering impressive views of the dynamic Bronx skyline and the Harlem River, connecting the development visually to its surrounding urban context.
The East 149th Street Development’s impact extends far beyond its physical structures. It has successfully converted an underutilized industrial site into 310 much-needed affordable housing units and valuable recreational spaces for residents. Notably, 530 Exterior Street includes 91 inclusionary zoning units and 32 units specifically dedicated to individuals transitioning from homelessness, demonstrating a commitment to addressing critical social needs. Similarly, 491 Gerard Avenue provides a mix of units for low- and moderate-income households, alongside units for formerly homeless families, creating a diverse and inclusive residential community within Mott Haven.
Furthermore, these residential buildings are designed with sustainability in mind, exceeding Enterprise Green Communities standards. Rooftop solar panels generate electrical power for common area usage, showcasing a commitment to environmentally responsible development. This comprehensive, multi-building project has acted as a catalyst, sparking further waterfront developments and complementary commercial ventures in the vicinity. By addressing the evolving needs of the local community, the East 149th Street Development is playing a pivotal role in the ongoing revitalization of Mott Haven and the wider 149th Street area, creating a more vibrant and sustainable urban environment for its residents and businesses.
