One-of-a-kind housing headed for University Heights

One-of-a-kind housing headed for University Heights

This spring, the Bronx has seen the birth of yet another “green” development project. 

On April 17, ground was broken on a first of its kind “Green” affordable co-op apartment development in Morris Heights.

The 83,145 square foot mixed-use development will house a 48-residential unit development that will include 10 one-bedroom and 38 two-bedroom apartments. 

“Building units will be priced for moderate income families – meaning those that earn between $40,000 and $90,000 – will have the opportunity to own their own homes,” explained Radame Perez, president of Mastermind Development, LLC, the company developing the project in partnership with the city and state.

  “For too long, many in our neighborhoods have rented their future; this opportunity gives residents the keys to own their future,” Perez added. 

The estimated 17-month long $18 million construction project at 150 Featherbed Lane, located at the intersection of University and Plimpton Avenues, will include a residential area, ground floor retail space, a community tenant facility, and ample parking.

“There was a time in the history of the Bronx when no one wanted to invest here during the tough times, but our company took up residence and began to build,” said Perez.  “Today, once again, we’re looking to the future and investing in affordable homeownership.”

Building construction will surpass the requirements of the NYS Energy Conservation Code, using the addition of 1” rigid wall insulation, additional roof insulation, and windows with lower U values.  Energy efficient heating and lighting systems are being used with modular boilers that fire in series and heating valves in all apartments that have the ability to regulate heat to each co-op unit.

Bank of America, the borough president’s office, NYC Housing Development Corporation, the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development, and the NYS Affordable Housing Corporation through the Housing Partnership Development Corporation financed The Washington Bridge View development.

The development adheres to Borough President Adolfo Carrion’s vision for development in the Bronx.

“I am very pleased to support the Washington Bridge View project, which will provide homeownership opportunities for New Yorkers,” Carrion said. “This development represents the perfect combination of affordable housing and green construction, two of the main goals of my administration.”