I'm far from a city historian, but when I was a kid, late forties, early fifties, it seemed to me that the cities of New Rochelle and White Plains were on a par, building/business wise. But, every time Iona wanted to expand, it was usually told "No" by the City. And it wasn't just Iona, as plan after plan for David's Island also went nowhere, and building and business construction ground to a halt. And, over the years, while New Ro floundered, White Plains flourished. There is no comparison. When I drive to New Ro it is usually to go only as far as Iona. But in the last month or so, I've had reasons to visit the south end, Hudson Park. And, all of a sudden, I can say that New Ro has been welcomed to the 21st century, as there is a lot of new building construction going on, even if I don't know whether it is for residential or business. And, I mean tall buildings, as I think of my first job after getting out of the Army. I worked in the Pershing Building, which was 26 stories high, and referred to as New Ro's skyscraper.
I'm far from a city historian, but when I was a kid, late forties, early fifties, it seemed to me that the cities of New Rochelle and White Plains were on a par, building/business wise. But, every time Iona wanted to expand, it was usually told "No" by the City. And it wasn't just Iona, as plan after plan for David's Island also went nowhere, and building and business construction ground to a halt. And, over the years, while New Ro floundered, White Plains flourished. There is no comparison. When I drive to New Ro it is usually to go only as far as Iona. But in the last month or so, I've had reasons to visit the south end, Hudson Park. And, all of a sudden, I can say that New Ro has been welcomed to the 21st century, as there is a lot of new building construction going on, even if I don't know whether it is for residential or business. And, I mean tall buildings, as I think of my first job after getting out of the Army. I worked in the Pershing Building, which was 26 stories high, and referred to as New Ro's skyscraper.
Just wondering if anyone has noticed.
Crossing over the Throggs Neck Bridge into the Bronx you can't not notice the expanding New Rochelle skyline.
The Pershing Square (or "K Bldg") at 271 North Ave is 13 stories (half your memory) and it was the highest building in NewRo for many decades.
The transformation of New Rochelle's downtown area has been massive and rapid.
Those buildings are residential for the most part and since they cluster in close proximity to the train station, commuters must be triggering their growth.
The Beechmont Tavern and Greasy Nicks continue to stand the test of time.
Chris, thanks. Can't believe that the Pershing Building is only 13 stories high. Maybe it was 26 stories, and like me, it's shrinking as it gets older.
Chris, thanks. Can't believe that the Pershing Building is only 13 stories high. Maybe it was 26 stories, and like me, it's shrinking as it gets older.
Chris, I'm very glad I asked. What a history lesson. Probably not fair to suggest this, but it seems like a project for the Hynes Institute. Hadn't heard anything about DI in years and now I know why. As a kid, I often attended movies in New Ro, Proctors and Lowes (Sp?), and would see quite a few soldiers. I knew about Ft. Slocum, but really had no idea where it was. You would just think that there is some use for the Island. Maybe the rebirth of the city, will help lead to an answer.
Don't think I'm wrong in saying that a strong New Ro is good for Iona.
SLG, thanks. Info posted by other Board members continue to amaze me. Like Iona, New Ro has come a long way. Of course they had a much longer time to accomplish what they have accomplished.
