Fresh Direct's move to The Bronx approved

Despite concerns and complaints from opponents, the Industrial Development Agency has approved the move of Fresh Direct to The Bronx. The almost-unanimous vote means the food retailer will build a 500,000-square

News 12 Staff

Feb 15, 2012, 1:12 AM

Updated 4,629 days ago

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Despite concerns and complaints from opponents, the Industrial Development Agency has approved the move of Fresh Direct to The Bronx.
The almost-unanimous vote means the food retailer will build a 500,000-square foot facility in the Harlem River Yards in Mott Haven, creating thousands of jobs in the borough, and will receive more than $100 million in incentives from the city and state. Opponents of the deal say it will only create low-paying jobs while increasing environmental problems in the South Bronx, including a rise in asthma rates. They also contend the deal was approved with little input from the community and plan to file a complaint with the attorney general.
Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. (D-The Bronx) says his office has taken additional steps to address any concerns. These plans include hiring a fleet of electric trucks, hiring and buying locally, and accepting food stamps for online purchases.