EDC announces Harlem deal.

The New York City Economic Development Corporation (EDC) announced that it has finalized the sale of the former Taystee Bakery facility to Citarella Operating LLC. Citarella plans to renovate the facilities to expand its operations and bring quality gourmet foods to Harlem.

"The completion of the sale of this property to Citarella is another example of Mayor Giuliani's commitment to bring sound economic development to previously neglected areas," said EDC president Michael G. Carey. "I commend Joseph Gurrera and Citarella for recognizing Harlem's potential and deciding to establish corporate offices in West Harlem and bring quality and jobs to its residents."

The 40,800 SF, City-owned site at West 126th Street, between Amsterdam and Morningside Avenues, consists of six buildings with a total of 134,000 SF. Citarella plans to establish corporate offices, food preparation areas for specialty bakery, pasta and salad items, a training facility; and expansion of its warehouse and storage facilities. In addition, the company will operate a 5,000 SF retail store at the site. Renovations are to begin immediately and will take approximately eight months to complete.

"I'm pleased that the Mayor and EDC selected Citarella. I think it's ironic that Citarella originally opened on 178th St. moved down to its present location on 75th St., and will now be moving back uptown. We've come fully circle," said Joseph Gurrera, owner of Citarella Operating.

"It feels great to give back to the City by providing jobs to the community."

EDC selected Citarella, on behalf of the City, to purchase and redevelop the site as a result of a Request for Proposals.

In making its decision, EDC considered a number of criteria, including economic return to the City in terms of revenue generated and jobs created, relationship to the surrounding community, development team qualifications, and financial feasibility.