JV to Develop Mixed-Use Community in Coram, NY

By Keith Loria, Contributing Editor

Coram, N.Y.—The Long Island Regional Economic Development Council, Community Development Corporation of Long Island and Conifer Realty have joined forces to build Wincoram Commons, a mixed-use development to be comprised of 176 workforce rental homes and 13,300 square feet of commercial space on 17.65 acres in Coram, N.Y.

“This groundbreaking is the culmination of a complex collaborative effort of the public, non-profit and private sectors,” Allen Handleman, Conifer Realty’s vice president, says. “This would not be possible without vision and leadership of all levels of government, nor would it be possible without the good work of individuals at all levels of the many agencies, businesses and organizations that have contributed to successful commencement of Wincoram Commons. We are grateful to all those involved.”

Located at 3700 Route 112, in what was once the home of a movie theater, the now vacant and blighted site is expected to inject nearly $56 million into the local economy, and is expected to create approximately 145 construction jobs and more than 30 new, permanent jobs.

“Wincoram Commons reached this successful milestone because of the overwhelming support of the Coram community and the commitment, hard work and funding from our public and private sector partners,” Marianne Garvin, Community Development Corporation of Long Island’s president and CEO, says. “Investments of resources into revitalizing communities yield dramatic positive economic and social results and we are proud to be a part of this transformation.”

The project was set forth on the strength of a $1 million award from Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s Regional Economic Development Council initiative. The project was designed and constructed using green building and sustainable community practices.

Wincoram Commons will provide one-two- and three- bedroom affordable rental homes in a new smart growth community.  In addition to the construction of mid-rise apartment buildings and townhomes over flats, the project includes significant infrastructure work, including the connection to a nearby sewer treatment plant.

The development will also feature commercial space on the first floor of some of the residential buildings, along with a commercial building on Route 112, which will serve as a gateway to the community. A leasing office, fitness center and community space will be housed in a separate clubhouse.

“Breaking ground on the Wincoram Commons redevelopment is a great example of what can be achieved through the strategic state and local partnerships we have fostered under the leadership of Governor Cuomo,” Kenneth Adams, Empire State Development’s president, CEO & commissioner, says. “At Empire State Development we aim to invest in projects that create jobs and help to revitalize communities. Wincoram Commons will not only do both, but will also ensure future growth by improving important infrastructure and bringing new business and economic opportunities to the Coram community.”