Developer Files to Decapitate Streit’s Matzo Building on Rivington Street
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The sizeable midsection of the former Streit’s Matzo Factory is coming down. Current property owner Cogswell Realty – the developer that purchased the four parcels earlier this year for $30.5 million – filed permits last week to demolish more than half of 150 Rivington Street. Floors two through six, to be precise.
According to public records at the Department of Buildings, Cogswell will not only remove the upper floors, but also renovate the ground and basement levels for retail use. A total of 10,219 square-feet. It’s not immediately clear, however, what the real plan is here. But this action is probably just a preemptive move to ensure that these contiguous buildings are not landmarked in the near future.
What is known is that architect Gluck+, which specializes in modular construction, is tasked with the new development. One that could rise six to seven stories when the smoke clears. Cogswell was also reportedly in talks to purchase 14,000 square-feet of air rights for $2.7 million from the nearby Suffolk Homes.
Streit’s ceased matzo production back in June for the first time in its ninety-year existence on the Lower East Side. Current fifth-generation co-owner Aaron Gross has instead relocated the facility to a stretch of Route 303 near Kings Highway. Exact location unknown.