By Christopher Doman '15
On Friday, October 31, 2014, members of the Real Estate Association and Paul Milstein Center staff met with Brookfield Property Group CEO, Ric Clark, and other members of the Brookfield team for a discussion regarding the Manhattan real estate market and Brookfield’s newest acquisitions and developments. Brookfield has been a dominant player in the revitalization of Lower Manhattan as a neighborhood where residents, office workers, and tourists can experience the various dining and cultural options. Historically, Lower Manhattan housed banks and financial firms, but had a limited "live/work/play" scene. However, with the newly-developed One World Trade Center and recent renovations to Brookfield Place, Lower Manhattan now boasts a multitude of residential, dining, and cultural options.
Following the discussion with Mr. Clark, Melissa Coley, Vice President of Investor Relations & Communications, and Alex Liscio, Associate, led a tour of Brookfield Place, including the newly renovated lobby at 250 Vesey Street; the new Entry Pavilion offering direct access to the World Trade Center transit hub; and Hudson Eats, an upscale dining terrace overlooking the Hudson River featuring fast-casual concepts from a variety of eateries. Brookfield Place, formerly the World Financial Center, is a complex of office buildings and retail space located near the Hudson River and across from the World Trade Center development sites. Following extensive renovations to office space, common areas, and retail and dining space, Brookfield renamed the complex "Brookfield Place" in early 2014. Brookfield’s $250 Million renovation and addition of global retailers will create a world class shopping and dining experience that will continue to change the dynamic of Lower Manhattan.