The Macy’s Herald Square “renewal project” is officially in the works!
Though in talks since 2019, Macy’s Inc. has released official details on its giant renovation project that will involve not only updating its flagship store, but completely revitalizing the Herald Square neighborhood as well.
Thanks to $235 million in private investment, the company will upgrade Herald Square’s transit infrastructure, and has also released the newest set of plans for building that 1.5 million-square-foot office tower above the store.
“Macy’s Herald Square is one of New York City’s most iconic institutions, and, as we plan for the future, we are doubling down on our commitment to New York by reinvesting in our flagship location while committing $235 million in private investment to upgrade the Herald Square neighborhood through our tower project,” Jeff Gennette, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Macy’s, Inc., said in a press release.
The ambitious project includes:
- Making Herald Square & Broadway Plaza completely car-free and centered around pedestrians, plus “upgraded connections to public transportation and substantial improvements to the Herald Square Subway Station.”
- Easier pedestrian access at Broadway & 34th Street, including new entrances to the Herald Square Subway Station near Penn Station
- Adding ADA-accessible elevators at 7th Avenue & 34th St. and 35th St. & Broadway
The company says the proposal is continuing a legacy of growth over the past 100 years for the iconic store, which opened in 1902, grew to 1 million square feet of store space, expanded in 1924 from Broadway to Seventh Ave on 34th St., and then expanded again in 1931.
Though the exact design of the new Herald Square Tower has not been revealed yet (you can read more about that here), the glass exterior among other features will “be a contextually appropriate addition to the neighborhood and add complementary density to this transit-oriented development district.” The area will have to be rezoned in order for them to build it.
Macy’s Herald Square will remain open during the entire project. See more renderings of the project and read more details on their dedicated website here!
featured image source: FXCollaborative