The East 149th Street Development stands as a testament to urban transformation, converting a previously underutilized industrial area in Mott Haven, Bronx, into a vibrant mixed-use space. Spearheaded by Signature Urban Properties and Monadnock Development, with architectural design by Dattner Architects, this project is breathing new life into the 149th Street commercial corridor.
This ambitious development comprises three buildings, delivering much-needed affordable housing alongside a contemporary office building. The first phase, 530 Exterior Street, completed in 2017, is a striking 13-story tower offering 157 affordable units. Located at the western edge of the development, it set the stage for the area’s revitalization.
Following in 2018, 491 Gerard Avenue, a 12-story building, added another 153 affordable housing units, complete with a residential terrace. Both residential buildings offer a diverse mix of studios, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments. Residents benefit from amenities such as fitness rooms, bike storage, and shared landscaped courtyards, fostering a sense of community within the development.
The final piece of the East 149th Street Development is 110 East 149th Street. This building introduces five floors of modern office space and ground-floor retail, injecting commercial activity into the area. Designed with efficiency and flexibility in mind, the building features an asymmetrical floorplate with the core services strategically placed to maximize tenant customization and natural light penetration. The façade’s design incorporates colored accents and large glass expanses, offering impressive views of the Bronx skyline and the Harlem River.
The community impact of the East 149th Street Development is significant. It has transformed a neglected industrial site into 310 units of crucial affordable housing and valuable recreational space. Specifically, 530 Exterior Street includes 91 inclusionary zoning units and 32 units dedicated to formerly homeless individuals. 491 Gerard Avenue also provides housing for low- and moderate-income families, alongside units for formerly homeless families, demonstrating a commitment to inclusive housing solutions.
Furthermore, the development embraces sustainability. The residential buildings are designed to exceed Enterprise Green Communities standards, incorporating rooftop solar panels to generate electricity for common area usage. This forward-thinking, multi-building project has acted as a catalyst for new waterfront developments and complementary commercial growth, effectively addressing the evolving needs of the local Mott Haven community and enhancing the East 149th Street corridor.
