[chris08876]

Two armories: One hit, one miss

The two massive, city-owned armories on Bedford Avenue in Crown Heights stand less than a mile apart, yet when it comes to their futures, they might as well be on different planets.

Today, the 108-year-old Bedford Union Armory between Union and President streets hums with activity. The city is planning a large-scale renovation of the empty 138,000-square-foot building, where developers envision everything from a hotel or business incubator to a supermarket or recreation center. At a recent community meeting, area residents excitedly weighed in with their own hopes and dreams. Work will begin as soon as the city approves a private developer.

"Reactivating this historic property will generate jobs, spur economic activity and revive a vibrant facility that will once again serve the neighborhood for years to come," Economic Development Corp. President Kyle Kimball said in 2013, when the city issued the request for proposals.

Meanwhile, at the landmarked, ­castle-like Bedford Atlantic ­Armory, plans have stalled despite earlier optimism.

Instead, the only sign of life comes courtesy of the city's Department of Homeless Services, which still uses part of the 120-year-old building as a shelter for homeless men. There, on a recent afternoon, a handful of men loitered near the grand entrance—despite numerous "No Loitering" signs—smoking marijuana and occasionally trudging out into traffic to panhandle from drivers.

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http://www.crainsnewyork.com/article...e-hit-one-miss