The Kingsbridge Armory has been used when needed but has yet to find a year-round purpose for the surrounding community and the city.  

Local Councilmember Pierina Sanchez, who represents the district where the armory lies, says she first remembers the armory from her childhood. Decades later, Sanchez is now at the forefront of efforts to give the Kingsbridge Armory a purpose.  

“There’s just so much possibility for what you can do in such a large indoor space in the city of New York, but we haven’t done that yet,” said Sanchez.  

Previous proposals for uses of the armory, from malls to ice rinks, have fallen short, leaving the Kingsbridge Armory mostly vacant since the 1990s. Bronx residents agree that something needs to be done.  

“We’re going to everyone, and we’re trying to activate them and say not only what do you want to see in the Armory, but… can we get you to come out and show your physical, visible support,” said Sanchez.  

The governor’s office has already committed $100 million in funding for the Kingsbridge Armory’s redevelopment, but Sanchez says more will be needed from both the city and federal government, and that whatever is decided on for the armory’s use will take years to come to fruition.  

“Whatever comes here has to serve the youth,” said Sanchez. “But it also has to spark the economic development of the community.” 

If you have an idea for the future of the Kingsbridge Armory, the next in-person meeting is Saturday, Jan. 21. At 12:00 p.m. at the P.S. 340 Annex.