As we suggested back in the beginning of May, Two Trees’ plans for the Nova Clutch building (which it has been demolishing over the past few weeks) were far grander than a replacement building. The Dumbo-based developer today made public its proposal for a mixed-use building on the entire half a block bounded by Water, Front and Dock Streets; in addition to Nova Clutch, this swath also includes 38 Water Street, the site of St. Ann’s Warehouse, where Two Trees tried to get approval for a 16-story tower back in 2004 before withdrawing the application in the face of public opposition. The proposed design by Beyer Blinder Belle, which includes 400 “green” apartments, 80 of which would be affordable, as well as retail, parking and a new public middle school, aims to address the central criticism of its 2004 plan—that it cramped the Brooklyn Bridge’s style. The inclusion of the school is a very smart political move, as many Dumbo residents are deeply concerned about where their kids will go to school after P.S. 8. Now let the vetting process begin!
Prepping for Something Bigger at 39 Front? [Brownstoner] GMAP P*Shark
Two Trees Seeking Approval for 15-20 Story Building [DumboNYC] DOB

View from Front Street. Nova Clutch, June 22, 2007.

View from Water Street. St. Ann’s Warehouse.