Ascent breaks ground on 32,000 s/f fitness flagship.

Ascent Real Estate Advisors, LLC will develop a 32,000 s/f commercial property in the Village of Thomaston in the heart of Great Neck, NY, for Equinox, the nation's leading operator of upscale fitness clubs and spas.

The development was announced by Ascent's principals John A. Porges and Dean S. Benjamin, and Equinox Executive Vice President of Development Paul Boardman at a groundbreaking ceremony on May 6.

The three-story development of will serve as the Equinox Flagship on Long Island, and a showcase for the company's extensive line of services and programs. It is located at the intersection of East Shore Road and Bayview Avenue and will be completed by the end of 2005. SBLM is the architect for the project.

"We are delighted to have this opportunity to develop a property on behalf of such an excellent tenant, in a community that welcomes corporations and projects of the highest quality that serves its constituents," said Mr. Porges, who has directed more than 1 million s/f of development in the region over the last decade.

"Development has always been a key component of the Ascent business plan, and we are pleased to execute a development project of this caliber," Mr. Benjamin said.

The club will feature a 25-yard pool, roof deck, spa and yoga studio will be located on the top floor of the property. A group fitness studio, spinning studio, changing and lounge facilities, cardio and strength training equipment, laundry service, juice bar, child care, pro shop and other premium features will be located throughout the first and second floors of the property.