Cantor Fitzgerald and Silverstein Properties close $165 million loan for 44-01 Northern Boulevard multi-family project

Queens, NY Affiliates of Cantor Fitzgerald, L.P. and Silverstein Properties have completed the latest closing of construction financing for 44-01 Northern Blvd., a project that Cantor Silverstein Opportunity Zone Trust, Inc. is invested in.

Cantor Fitzgerald and Silverstein arranged a $165 million construction loan from Banco Inbursa for the development of a 354-unit multifamily property located on a 63,000 s/f lot in the Astoria neighborhood. The development allocates 25% of the rental units as affordable housing and will include 25,000 s/f of retail. Silverstein Properties, developer for the project, commenced construction in spring 2022 and foundation work is nearing completion. The building is expected to welcome residents in spring 2024.

Designed by Hill West Architects, the building will include a mix of one and two bedrooms; 20,000 s/f of amenities; 200 parking spots; and 25,000 s/f of retail facing Northern Blvd. The design pays homage to the city’s industrial past with a composition of masonry and blackened metal by taking cues from the immediate context. Upon arrival through the car court, residents will be greeted by a lobby and gardens. At the upper level of the gardens is a lawn connecting back to the second-floor amenities opening up to a gym, yoga studio, children’s playroom and resident lounge. The second amenity level is located on the 10^th floor, providing views of the Manhattan skyline from the co-working lounge, library and chef’s kitchen leading out to a rooftop deck.

Cantor Fitzgerald and Silverstein entered into a joint venture focused on acquiring and developing real estate projects located in opportunity zones in early 2019. Their opportunity zone development portfolio includes eight projects under development across seven states expected to be comprised of 2,769 residential units and a 250,000 s/f life science facility, totaling an estimated $2 billion in project costs.

The two firms share a historical connection to the tragic events of 9/11 at the World Trade Center and played central roles in the recovery that followed. This joint venture partnership is a natural extension of the companies’ shared history and underscores both firms’ commitment to rebuilding and supporting communities in need.

“In an environment of cautious construction lending and inflation hikes increasing the cost of debt, making it more expensive to borrow money, we appreciate Banco Inbursa’s recognition of the strength of the Cantor Fitzgerald and Silverstein partnership and the quality of this asset,” said Chris Milner, head of real estate investment management at Cantor Fitzgerald Asset Management. “We are thrilled have completed this transaction and to move forward with the construction of 44-01 Northern Blvd.”

“As developers of outstanding projects, we are excited to be part of Astoria’s vibrant future by offering residents a premier property with market-rate and affordable housing as well as a host of amenities,” said Marty Burger, CEO of Silverstein Properties. “We’ve gotten to know many incredible people in this community over the past few years through our planning for Innovation QNS, and that’s why we believe so strongly in Astoria.”