Bloomberg reveals sale of two city-owned buildings for $250 million; Reduces 600,000 s/f of underutilized office space

Mayor Michael Bloomberg released this statement, "Today's vote by the Manhattan Borough Board to proceed with the sales of 49-51 Chambers Street and 346 Broadway - the largest real estate transaction the city has ever conducted with a minority-owned business enterprise - is a welcome affirmation of support for the Civic Center project, which will generate more than $200 million for the city in net revenue, operating expense savings and deferred capital costs. The sales will ensure the restoration of two landmarked buildings and create an important digital arts and media space dedicated to the community. In addition, with the approval of these sales, the city has reduced its office footprint by more than 1.17 million s/f since 2010 and now will exceed our overall goal of reducing 1.2 million s/f by 2014. I want to thank Borough president Scott Stringer and council member Margaret Chin for their support of this important project that continues the revitalization of Lower Manhattan, one of New York City's most dynamic neighborhoods."