Revitalizing Manhattan’s Far West Side: HDSN Development Unveiled

A groundbreaking $1.35 billion development, called HDSN (pronounced "Hudson"), is set to rise on Manhattan's Far West Side, blending residential, hospitality, and cultural spaces. Announced by Governor Kathy Hochul's office, this ambitious project will redefine the area near the Jacob Javits Convention Center.

Vision for Housing and Affordability

The centerpiece of the HDSN project is a towering 72-story residential building housing 1,349 units, 30% of which will be designated as permanently affordable. These affordable units, integrated throughout the tower, will cater to households with area median incomes ranging from 60% to 130%—or approximately $93,000 to $202,000 for a family of four. Units will vary from studios to three-bedrooms, equipped with modern conveniences such as in-unit washers and dryers and central heating and cooling.

Hospitality and Supporting Infrastructure

HDSN will include a 28-story, 455-room hotel designed to complement the adjacent Javits Center. Features such as meeting spaces, a fitness center, and a rooftop with sweeping Hudson River views aim to support both tourists and convention-goers.

A Climate Museum and Community Spaces

The development will incorporate a five-story structure anchored by a 24,000-square-foot Climate Museum, focusing on education about climate change and sustainable solutions. Adding to the social mission, Emma’s Torch, a nonprofit organization, will operate a restaurant and training facility offering job placement for refugees, asylum seekers, and human trafficking survivors.

Recreation and Wellness

A Life Time fitness center spanning 60,300 square feet, complete with an outdoor swimming pool, will cater to health and wellness enthusiasts. Additionally, the developers plan to enhance the surrounding neighborhood with improved lighting, landscaping, and seating areas.

State Partnership and Development Timeline

Sponsored by an Empire State Development subsidiary, the project will undergo an environmental review and public comment period before receiving final approval. Specific funding details and a construction timeline are yet to be confirmed, though the residential component is prioritized for completion.

Leveraging Zoning Reforms and State-Owned Land

HDSN marks a first under the state's new zoning reforms, which allow higher residential density. The development sits on Site K, one of the last state-owned parcels in Manhattan, and aligns with Governor Hochul's initiative to utilize public land for housing. Other similar projects include developments on former correctional facility sites in Chelsea and Harlem.

Broader Urban Redevelopment Efforts

This project complements New York City’s broader push to transform public land into housing. Recently, plans were announced to repurpose an NYPD parking lot in the East Village into a residential development. HDSN exemplifies the city and state's shared commitment to addressing the housing crisis while fostering community and sustainability.