A new coalition of labor and community organizations is fighting for equitable development in the Bronx.
In NYC, development all too often means displacement, as new construction projects push out residents and local businesses to create luxury condos or shopping centers that pay poverty wages.
A new coalition of labor and community organizations is fighting for a different outcome. The Kingsbridge Armory Redevelopment Alliance (KARA), a coalition of nineteen local organizations, is pushing for equitable development at the Kingsbridge Armory in the Bronx. Developer Related Companies plans to turn the old armory into a shopping center. Meanwhile, KARA is pushing Related to enter into a Community Benefits Agreement to ensure a development process that is beneficial to Bronx residents and workers.
KARA’s proposed agreement includes:
• Quality Education
• Jobs With Dignity For Local Residents
• Space for Leisure and Exercise
• Arts, Culture and Social Programs
• Retailers That Serve Our Community
• A Clean and Healthy Environment
• Safe, Union Construction Jobs
The Bronx News Network recently reported on a press conference that featured Bronx Boro Prez Ruben Diaz, Jr. and Stuart Applebaum, the head of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union.