A makeover is finally coming to the regularly derided Port Authority Bus Terminal.
Servicing 125,000 people a day, all those daily travelers and commuters are just what the retailers order. “It’s the foot traffic,” says Jodi Pulice, chief executive of JRT Realty Group.
Pulice, along with JRT’s Kelly Simek and joint venture partner Cushman & Wakefield, are working for the Port Authority to re-tenant the bus terminal’s 150,000 square feet of retail plus another 13,000 square feet along Ninth Avenue.
Construction has begun on actions that will take the “ugh” out of the experience. “That’s what we are changing,” says Pulice. “The perception.”
Currently, the main Hudson News is centered in a corridor so travelers must walk around it. “We are taking it away so people will be able to see both sides of retailers,” says Pulice.
All of Hudson’s 10 stores are being remodeled to the terminal’s new uniform retail design with white, cloudy smoked glass. Some will become Hudson convenience stores like those at the airports.
“It will look tighter and organized and will brighten it up,” she says.
Hudson News’ new spot on the second floor opened this fall with the new glass as did Bolton’s, Strawberry’s and Duane Reade.
Buses are also being relocated from a left side of an entrance area so more stores will be added to that area.
All the ticketing locations have already been moved and gates reassigned to make way for improvements that include upgrades to the ceilings, mechanicals and Wi-Fi.
“The Port Authority Board is very much in tune to making it a better place and a more pleasant,” Pulice says.
A new food court deal is on its way with “cool food” and a wider variety, “whether Italian or a bagel place.” A 10-year lease with OHM Concession Group will bring around $15.2 million to the Port for three spaces totaling 5,943 square feet.
The food court will take the place of Deli Plus and the U.S. Postal Service, which will close at the end of January. Jamba Juice will move to its east. Wine retailers and even an upscale candy store are also being targeted.
“We know the food is all grab-and-go, but we want to provide a healthier, classier choice in a variety of stores,” Pulice explains.
Food places will also be added to the underground waiting areas so there is more activity.
Both the Duane Reade and shoe repair services will remain for commuters. Says Pulice, “The Port is really committed to making this a better place to be.”
