Central to the battle over the Kingsbridge Armory redevelopment is the demand by community organizations that retailers pay their workers a “living wage” at the revamped facility. The developer of project, The Related Companies said requiring Armory tenants to pay $10 an hour, plus benefits wouldn’t be fair. Job advocates say that’s simply not the case.
Throughout the course of the loud, often contentious, four-hour hearing, however, some 600 people showed up (many were prevented from entering), and at least 45 spoke. The hearing represented the last opportunity for community residents, advocates and stakeholders to address the community board before its 30-plus volunteer members vote on whether or not to support the project on July 14.
Years of arguments about the use of the Kingsbridge Armory have finally resulted in some form of peace. Based on a suggestion by the local community board, The Related Companies, the developer for the Armory, revealed plans to include a World Peace Atrium as part of its proposal to build a retail mall inside the colossal building.