Curbed reports: The curvy low-rise building at 61 Fifth Avenue, devastated by fire in 2006, has been marked for death ever since the structure—a former Scrafft’s luncheonette (see photo at top left circa 1940)—was sold to a developer in early 2008. An architect was quickly enlisted to draw up plans for a 10-story building with apartments and ground-floor retail, and it was made clear that the current 61 Fifth Avenue was too far gone to be preserved in any manner. Has the economy put a pause on those plans? Perhaps, but broker-blogger Andrew Fine reports that demolition permit was issued for the property in December, so the wrecking ball could come calling any day now.
This rather fascinating report on pedestrian foot traffic in the area reveals that sidewalk crowds are up 53% in the past five years. If you’ve ever walked past Whole Foods at 6 PM, this will come as no surprise. In fact, Whole Foods is probably mainly responsible for the surge.
The Union Square Partnership recently surveyed residents, asking them what they’d like to see more of in the neighborhood. The results:
The Union Square Partnership Business and Broker Report for the 1st quarter updates us on what’s new and pulsating in the neighborhood.
Union Square has started the year off on a high note with 10 new business openings and foot traffic recovering to 99% of 2019 levels, a 4% increase from the last quarter. Newcomers include a range of quick service eateries and high-profile sit down establishments, such as the new Coastal Indian
restaurant Kanyakumari from well-regarded Fungi Hospitality. Popular mattress retailer Saatva joined the established home goods corridor on Broadway, and Sweet Cats Cafe brings more family-friendly entertainment to the neighborhood.
