Explore Brooklyn Army Terminal: History, Leasing & More!
Could a colossal complex, once a cornerstone of military might, truly transform into a vibrant hub for modern industry and innovation? The Brooklyn Army Terminal, a sprawling testament to history located in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, stands as irrefutable proof that such a metamorphosis is not only possible but thriving.
Nestled between 58th and 65th Streets, and stretching from 2nd Avenue toward the shimmering waterfront, the Brooklyn Army Terminal (BAT) is more than just a collection of buildings; it's a living, breathing entity. Its story began in 1918, conceived as a critical supply base to support the United States' involvement in World War I. Designed by the renowned architect Cass Gilbert, the terminal quickly evolved into the largest military supply base in the US, playing a pivotal role throughout World War II. Today, it stands as a premier affordable hub for modern industrial businesses, entrepreneurs, and working families in NYC, embodying a remarkable shift in purpose.
The Brooklyn Army Terminal's story is one of adaptation and rebirth. The immense scale of the complex, occupying over 95 acres on Brooklyn's western shore, provided the infrastructure necessary for this evolution. Now, it supports a diverse array of business uses. From its origins as a military depot, BAT has been reimagined. Consider the story of BioBAT, a biotech hub that exemplifies this transformation and has been part of this revitalization effort since 2006. This adaptability is a testament to the terminal's robust design and the vision of those who have shaped its present.
Here is a table detailing the key features and information about Brooklyn Army Terminal:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Sunset Park, Brooklyn, New York City, between 58th St and 65th St, and 2nd Ave and the waterfront |
| Address | 140 58th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11220 |
| Original Purpose | Military Supply Base & Port of Embarkation |
| Year of Completion | 1918 |
| Architect | Cass Gilbert |
| Current Use | Commercial and Light Industrial, Event Space, Biotech Hub |
| Size | Over 95 acres |
| Key Features | Waterfront Campus, Public Spaces, Events, Leasing Opportunities, Atrium, Pier, Food Options |
| Transportation Access | Ferry, Train, Bus (B9, B11, B37), Car, Bike (Bike lanes on 4th and 57th st) |
| Primary Entrance | Corner of 58th St and 1st Ave |
| Notable Tenants | Diverse array of modern industrial businesses, entrepreneurs, and biotech companies |
| Revitalization Efforts | BioBAT, $100 million climate innovation hub planned, 12,000+ green economy apprenticeships by 2040. |
| Awards & Recognition | Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce 2019 Best of Brooklyn Award for Industrial Modernization |
| Leasing Inquiries | Space Inquiry Form available |
| Event Inquiries | [email protected] |
| Press Inquiries | [email protected] |
| Website | www.bat.nyc |
The architecture itself deserves mention. The Brooklyn Army Terminal is a behemoth, a testament to the industrial ambition of its era. Its immense size, combined with its unique building specifications, allows it to support a wide variety of business uses. Exploring the architectural features offers insights into the history of the terminal and the innovative planning that went into its construction. The details of the railroad operations, facilities, and the locomotives that once served the terminal, are also worth discovering, offering glimpses into the terminal's original function.
Beyond its physical attributes, the Brooklyn Army Terminal offers a wealth of experiences. Public spaces, events, and diverse food options create a dynamic atmosphere. The waterfront location provides stunning views and a connection to the broader city. Visitors can easily access the terminal via ferry, train, bus, or car. The New York City Ferry is particularly convenient, offering a 16-minute trip from Lower Manhattan to the terminal, along with connections to several Brooklyn stops.
For those interested in the future of the Brooklyn Army Terminal, there are significant plans in motion. A $100 million climate innovation hub is slated to be developed, along with a vision to create over 12,000 green economy apprenticeships by 2040. These initiatives underscore the terminal's commitment to sustainability and its role in advancing public sector partnerships. This focus aligns with its status as a modern industrial hub.
Visiting the Brooklyn Army Terminal is a relatively simple affair. The main entrance is conveniently located at the corner of 58th Street and 1st Avenue. Those arriving by subway can exit at the 58th Street station and walk west towards the waterfront. For cyclists, bike lanes along 4th Avenue and 57th Street lead to a pedestrian entrance on 58th Street, off of 2nd Avenue, and free indoor and outdoor bike parking is available.
The terminal's history is rich with intriguing stories. It was planned in 1918 as a critical part of the nation's mobilization for World War I. After the war, the terminal was designed to transition to private sector use. During the prohibition era, some of its buildings were used as warehouses for the distribution of alcoholic beverages. Today, the terminal continues to evolve, reflecting the changing needs of the city and its economy.
The terminals contribution to the neighborhood is also evident. The waterfront district, where the Brooklyn Army Terminal is located, features extensive industrial infrastructure and a diverse array of tenants and uses. It is a prime example of industrial modernization and a key asset of the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC). Along with the Brooklyn Army Terminal, the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal and the Made in New York Campus play a vital role in the area's growth.
The terminals legacy is already noteworthy. The Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce recognized its contributions to industrial modernization by awarding it the 2019 Best of Brooklyn Award. These accolades and ongoing developments point towards a bright future for the Brooklyn Army Terminal as it continues to adapt and thrive.
For inquiries about leasing space, there's a convenient online space inquiry form. Event inquiries and press inquiries can be directed to designated email addresses: [email protected] and [email protected], respectively. For general questions, a form is available for providing your details, and a team member will respond promptly.
In essence, the Brooklyn Army Terminal is more than just a complex of buildings; it is a symbol of transformation. It is a place where the echoes of the past meet the innovations of the future, a testament to the power of vision, adaptability, and community.
