Zinerman Secures $10M for Marcus Garvey Armory Project

Zinerman Secures $10M for the Marcus Garvey Armory redevelopment, marking a major step forward in transforming the historic building into a community hub for Central Brooklyn. The project envisions cultural programming, recreation facilities, workforce development, entrepreneurial support, and public gathering spaces guided by extensive neighborhood input.

Zinerman Secures $10M for Marcus Garvey Armory Redevelopment

Zinerman Secures $10M for the Marcus Garvey Armory redevelopment as New York State commits new funding to help advance one of Central Brooklyn’s most ambitious community revitalization projects.

The $10 million investment will support continued planning and development efforts aimed at transforming the historic Marcus Garvey Armory, also known as “The Castle,” into a multi-purpose community destination serving Bedford-Stuyvesant, Crown Heights, and surrounding neighborhoods.

The rollout was outlined in a press release published via NYC Newswire, the funding announcement marks a significant milestone in a long-running, community-driven effort to reimagine the 220,000-square-foot historic structure as a center for arts, recreation, workforce development, entrepreneurship, and community services.

The project reflects a broader push across Brooklyn to preserve historic assets while adapting them to address modern neighborhood needs, economic opportunity, and community gathering space.

Marcus Garvey Armory Vision Built Through Community Input

Community leaders say the redevelopment plans have been shaped by years of resident engagement and public input.

Proposed uses for the Armory include:

• Cultural arts programming and performance space
• Sports and recreation facilities
• Workforce development and job training programs
• Small business support and entrepreneurial incubation
• Space for nonprofit organizations and community services
• Public gathering and multi-use community areas

Officials say these concepts remain part of an ongoing planning process that will continue evolving as redevelopment moves into its next phase.

“Our residents have always imagined something greater for this space,” said Assemblymember Stefani L. Zinerman. “For the past few years, we have asked residents what they would like the armory to become. Today, because of this $10 million investment, we move one step closer to making that vision a reality.”

State Leaders Call Investment A Long-Term Commitment To Brooklyn

State leaders described the funding as an example of community-informed investment and local decision-making.

“This is state money. This is your money,” said Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie. “We always believe that local elected officials know their districts better than large state agencies. That gives us the ability and capacity to make those investments in the right places. Assemblymember Zinerman has been a great partner and a great representative for the 56th District.”

Community stakeholders say the redevelopment represents more than a building renovation.

“For generations, the 13th Regiment Armory/Marcus Garvey Armory (also known as The Castle) has belonged to the people of Bed-Stuy,” said Stevenson Dunn, Chair of the Marcus Garvey Armory Community Advisory Council. “Today we have reached a pivotal milestone ensuring it serves the community once again.”

Redevelopment Seen As Opportunity For Central Brooklyn

Project leaders say the Armory redevelopment has the potential to create lasting economic and social benefits throughout Central Brooklyn.

“We started with more than 200 ideas from the community and narrowed them through an extensive engagement process to a set of core concepts people could see themselves in,” said James Johnson-Piett, President and CEO of Urbane Development.

“The next phase is about exploring how community stewardship and long-term ownership can be embedded into the structure of the building. This milestone reflects real progress, and we will continue working with residents to ensure they remain at the center of every stage of development.”

Dr. Jocelynne Rainey, President and CEO of Brooklyn Org, said the project remains grounded in community leadership.

“This process has been grounded in listening and ensuring the community voice leads the work,” Rainey said. “This is about more than a physical space. It is about opportunity, economic justice, workforce development, and strengthening cultural institutions that create pathways for young people.”

The redevelopment also aligns with broader efforts across Brooklyn to expand community infrastructure, support small businesses, create opportunities for young people, and preserve historic neighborhood institutions.

What Happens Next

The new state funding will support the next phase of planning and implementation as community leaders continue refining redevelopment plans for the Marcus Garvey Armory.

Officials say resident engagement will remain central to the process as stakeholders work toward establishing long-term uses and stewardship models for the historic property.

The latest investment underscores how the Marcus Garvey Armory has evolved into a long-term community vision centered on economic opportunity, cultural preservation, and neighborhood revitalization in Central Brooklyn.

What You Want To Know

What is the Marcus Garvey Armory redevelopment project?
The project aims to transform the historic Armory into a community hub featuring arts programming, recreation facilities, workforce development, and community services.

How much funding was announced?
Assemblymember Stefani Zinerman announced a $10 million New York State investment to advance redevelopment planning and implementation.

Which communities will benefit?
The project is intended to serve Bedford-Stuyvesant, Crown Heights, and broader Central Brooklyn communities.

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