Brooklyn Marine Terminal could be transformed into a mixed-use hub

RED HOOK, Brooklyn (PIX11) -- City land must be evaluated for potential housing. A big new area is now on the list.  

Red Hook is home to the Brooklyn Marine Terminal, which the city took over from the Port Authority in the summer. The goal is to create a modern port that’s also a mixed-use community hub.

The Brooklyn Marine Terminal handles 60,000 a year. In comparison, ports in New Jersey process more than 3 million. 

A public process is underway to review expansion and modernization projects and possibly open some access. 

Jennifer Sun is the EVP of planning with the NYC Economic Development Corporation. She sees plenty of possibilities, including adding capacity and refrigerated storage. "Make this port more competitive as a major hub," she said. 

But it’s not only about expansion of the maritime activities. Developing the 122 acres along the waterfront in Red Hook is part of the project. 

Neighbors and community stakeholders are playing an important part. Scott says he's always concerned about overdevelopment and lack of housing. "This is one of those places, and you can see it around the city, where things keep going up up up," he said. 

Public workshops and tours are happening with a 28-member task force working on ideas. The feedback will shape the plan to be announced in March. 

City, state, and federal funds are committed, including the largest grant from U.S. DOT in recent history: $164 million. 

"We are hearing a lot of different things. It's not only a commitment for modern maritime but also open space, activating the waterfront, housing opportunities, and job creation," said Mikelle Adgate, NYC EDC SVP for Government & Community Relations. 

Expanded operations could help get truck traffic off the roads. 

Two public sessions are set for December.