2008 Woodie Awards
From South Street Seaport to Southern Hunts Point
Cindy Saad
Issue date: 4/1/04 Section: News
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The Fulton Fish Market, combined with the meat and produce markets, will comprise the world's largest food distributor: the Hunts Point Food Distribution Center. The move is expected to yield more than $1 billion in commercial activity for Hunts Point and create nearly 1,000 jobs.
The new location will not only provide a larger space for the fish market but will allow for more efficient transportation and shipping routes via roads, rail and waterfront. In addition to extended operating hours, the market will now be capable of unloading 30 semi-trucks at a time, as opposed to the 12 at the Lower Manhattan location. As it does now, the new fish market will adhere to regulations implemented by the Food and Drug Administration.
Another objective of the move is to preserve "an important piece of New York City history," according to the Economic Development Corporation's President Andrew M. Alper. Also, removing the fish market from the Seaport would allow for enhancement of the residential and retail life in the area.
Recent conflicts between merchants and management over deceptive business practices have people curious as to the future plans for the soon to be empty space. Although merchants think that the Seaport management is keeping its plans secret, rumors have it that plans for the Seaport's Pier 17 include a hotel, movie theatre or restaurant.
Under a City Charter, the waterfront property may not be sold, says Janel Patterson of the EDC.
The New York City EDC is working in conjunction with the New Fulton Fish Market Cooperative at Hunts Point, Cybul & Cybul Architects, and Turner Construction to make this move a success.