Christian Browne, Sahn Ward Coschignano

Long Beach, NY According to Sahn Ward Coschignano, PLLC, Christian Browne, a partner with the firm has represented a developer before the city’s zoning board seeking approvals to convert an abandoned office building that Long Beach Hospital previously occupied for offices into a residential apartment building. “We were pleased to represent our client in making this smart-growth project a reality,” Browne said. “It represents yet another step in Long Beach’s recovery and revitalization from the ravages of Hurricane Sandy.”

The property owner plans to construct 23 studio and one-room apartments in the four-story building at 249 East Park Ave. This smart-growth project would attract “Millennials,” single people and small families. It is within walking distance of public transportation, the Long Beach boardwalk, local shops and restaurants.

The building, which was used by hundreds of workers and patients each day when it was in operation, was abandoned and undeveloped after it was damaged by Hurricane Sandy in 2012.

In addition to the proposed apartments, plans call for a new brick façade and a new entranceway, including a handicap-accessible ramp.

Browne explained that the approvals included a zoning variance for residential use, as well as a parking variance. Twenty-four parking spots will be allotted for the project.