Synopsis

Representing Bedford Stuvyesant and Crown Heights, Assemblymember Zinerman had a desire for a consultant Team to identify future adaptive uses to reestablish the Armory as a community anchor based on input from residents, community-based representatives, and organizations, as well as market trends.

Over a six-month period, the project team collected data through surveys, stakeholder interviews, and other primary and secondary sources in order to identify and assess a combination of preliminary local priorities, market and community needs, and potential operators and partners. Additionally, research on precedent armory redevelopments in NYC and around the world and a preliminary site analysis yielded an understanding of the possible strategic directions and physical transformations for the project as well as a sense of their financial viability. From these findings, four thematic use scenarios with 20 compatible programming options were proposed.

This work offers a high-level analysis that provides an initial view of what a possible future for the Armory could look like. The preliminary report will be used to inform and guide the next step in the process to redevelop the Armory – the Phase 2 Feasibility Study. This includes ongoing community engagement, an in-depth building condition assessment, and detailed financial analyses. 

DELIVERABLES:

• The Marcus Garvey Armory Project website to disseminate project information, solicit comments, and surveys from the community.
• Presentation deck illustrating the methodology, analysis, recommendations, and future considerations of the project.
• Compilation of four use scenarios/concepts that sought to respond and address community needs and preferences that emerged through the research and engagement process.
• Documentation of stakeholder interviews and attendance of local meetings and events.
• Collection and analysis of 560 surveys and community input forms.