Manhattan construction firm executive Susan Hayes will now lead the subsidiary, known as FC Modular, to complete the 32-story tower at Barclay’s Center in downtown Brooklyn. In one of MHProNews‘ last posts about the project from April 10, 2015, Ratner’s collaboration with Swedish builder Skanska had unraveled into acrimonious lawsuits as only one of the 16 modular units had been completed.
According to crainsnewyork, Ratner bought out Skanska and instead of closing the Brooklyn Navy Yards, where the modules are constructed, Ratner is looking at building other modular housing units in the city. MaryAnne Gilmartin, CEO of Forest City, said, “Modular construction is an important part of the future for our industry, and Susan will bring tremendous value as we seek new business partners and source new business opportunities going forward. This model is still yet to be proven, but I am a deep believer.”
The city is proposing zoning changes in several neighborhoods that could make modular construction more attractive for developers.
One developer—Garrison Architects–discovered it is cheaper to ship modular units from Poland than to build or buy stateside. ##
(Image credit: SHoP Architects–Ratner’s modular housing unit in Brooklyn)
