The Mid-Bronx Senior Citizens Council, Inc., a non-profit organization serving the South Bronx, funded an extensive restoration and waterproofing project at 900 Grand Concourse, formerly the Grand Hotel.
The first stage of the project was the removal of weathered, quarry tile flooring in the center roof courtyard followed by the installation of a state-of-the-art roof deck. (The site of the center roof courtyard was originally the hotel's formal ballroom, which was, at that time, enclosed.)
The second stage entailed the construction of an elaborate 5000 square foot roof garden including an authentic Japanese-style garden, an entertainment area for live performances, and an outdoor food kiosk. A small section was even allocated for use as a resident's garden.
The managing agent for the building is Rental & Management Associates (RMA). The property is a HUD sponsored, Section 8 residence for low-income senior citizens. It has 298 units, primarily studio and one-bedroom apartments, on-site doctor and social worker and community dining room.
"Wayne Bellet [Bellet Construction] was awarded the job through competitive bid, but he is also a quality contractor," says Leonard Schwartz, director of operations for RMA. "We have worked with him on several occasions and are confident that this project will reflect the same care and skill as his other jobs for us."
"This project calls for a no-dollar-limit, top-quality product with a 20 year roof warranty. The new roof courtyard will provide enjoyment to groups of senior citizens for many, many years to come. It is gratifying to see the commitment being made on behalf of the residents here," stated Mr. Bellet.
Designed as the Waldorf-Astoria of
the Bronx and built in 1923, the former Grand Hotel at 161st Street and Grand
Concourse, has hosted such luminaries as Babe Ruth, Roger Maris and Jim Brown
and was a campaign stop for Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry S. Truman and John
F. Kennedy. As the neighborhood deteriorated in the late 1960's and 1970's,
it became a welfare hotel. In 1974, the city bought the building for its present
use as senior citizen housing, and it is now known as a clean and safe environment.