RWDSU Rallies With Community for Responsible Development of Kingsbridge Armory (7/16/09)

A rally Wednesday night in New York City called for a fair and binding Community Benefits Agreement at the Kingsbridge Armory redevelopment project.  The agreement will provide opportunities for residents, community space and will ensure that the redevelopment of the Kingsbridge Armory will be good for both the people and the economy of the Bronx.

The rally, held at Our Lady of Refuge Church, was attended by over 400 Kingsbridge Armory Redevelopment Alliance supporters who then marched to the Kingsbridge Armory itself and wrapped it with "Our Armory, Our Community" tape as a symbolic act of ownership.

According to RWDSU President Stuart Appelbaum, the Kingsbridge Armory redevelopment offers "an opportunity to do things right."

"Economic development that creates jobs that keep people in poverty accomplishes nothing. We expect and demand that the Kingsbridge Armory be developed in a way that strengthens the community, and not just enriches the developer," Appelbaum (pictured at left) said as he addressed the rally.

New York City Comptroller William Thompson, Jr., was on hand to pledge his support for the community.

"I stand with you today for good, responsible development at the Kingsbridge Armory. That means guaranteeing living wage permanent jobs for community residents, creating a clean and healthy environment, building community space and protecting local businesses and local jobs," Thompson said.

Addressing the rally were also:  New York City Council member Oliver Koppell, State Assemblyman José Rivera   ; Fred LeMoyne, vice president, Bronx Board of Business Agents, The New York State Building & Construction Trades; community members, clergy, and small business owners.