BCW Board Gets Exclusive Preview of District Galleria Plan

BCW board members got an exclusive preview this week of District Galleria, a $2.5 billion development that will be the largest conversion of an enclosed shopping mall into open space, mixed-use residential and retail in the entire New York Metropolitan Tri-State Region.

Louis Cappelli, Chairman and CEO of the Cappelli Organization, made an engaging and highly informative presentation of the multi-phase project which is being planned for the now vacant Galleria site in downtown White Plains by BCW Member Cappelli, SL Green and Pacific Retail Capital Partners. 

Cappelli began the presentation noting that District Galleria is the culmination of more than seven years of in-depth review and strategic master planning. “The plan that we’re going to show you now is something that is so over the top,” Cappelli said.

The project will feature seven residential towers of varied heights with up to 3,200 apartments, of which 12 percent would be designated as affordable. “We’re planning on the 12 percent affordable being dispersed into each building,” he said noting that each building will have the same amenities and luxury finishes whether the apartments are affordable or market rate.

Cappelli said another key element of the project is nearly half of its footprint will be designated as open space, creating a quarter mile-long green promenade complete with pet playgrounds, pocket parks, and lush landscaping for community gatherings, outdoor events, public entertainment, and art. A retail pedestrian promenade and plaza will run through the development featuring shops, boutiques, cafes and restaurants.  Existing street-fronts will be activated with businesses for the first time in almost 50 years.

Cappell said they have been meeting with business and community groups to present the plan. “The support has been overwhelming. Absolutely overwhelming in favor,” he said.

BCW President & CEO Marsha Gordon thanked Cappelli and described the project as “astonishing and wonderful and so important for so many lives in Westchester County.” BCW Executive VP and COO John Ravitz said “the Business Council obviously supports this project. It’s a win-win. It’s going to create jobs and revenue and it will also improve the quality of life for the city,” adding “This is an exciting project for all of us to get behind.”  

The District Galleria plan is currently before the White Plains Common Council. For more information about the plan visit https://districtgalleria.com/