New York City’s historic Lexington Avenue Armory, home to the renowned Fighting 69th Infantry, is set to undergo a transformative rehabilitation thanks to a $90 million Community Project Funding (CPF) request secured by U.S. Representative Jerry Nadler, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer, and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. The announcement, made on March 21, marks a significant milestone in preserving the legacy and enhancing the functionality of this iconic structure.
Built in 1904, the Lexington Avenue Armory stands as a testament to New York’s military heritage, serving as a vital hub for the Fighting 69th Infantry, a storied regiment with a history dating back to the late 1840s. Having played pivotal roles in conflicts such as the Civil War, both World Wars, and the Iraq War, the regiment holds a place of honor within the United States Army.
The $90 million funding allocation, secured as part of the FY2024 spending bill, will be dedicated to rehabilitating the existing 200,873 square foot building, bringing it up to modern readiness standards. Representative Nadler, Senator Schumer, and Senator Gillibrand spearheaded the effort to secure this funding, recognizing the importance of preserving and enhancing the armory’s capabilities.
“I’m proud to have worked with Leader Schumer and Senator Gillibrand to secure $90 million in direct funding for the historic 69th Regiment Armory in Manhattan,” said Representative Nadler. “This funding will help restore and modernize the 120-year-old Lexington Avenue landmark to ensure it can continue to serve as the epicenter of New York’s civil support response capabilities in Manhattan for years to come.”
“It’s not just the Luck of the Irish in me, but it was hard work and advocacy that delivered this $90 million in federal funding for the historic 69th Regiment Armory to modernize and improve readiness,” said Senator Schumer. “Not only is the armory itself a national and New York City landmark, but it’s home to The Fighting 69th, a regiment once made up of mostly Irish immigrants with a distinguished and storied history. The rehabilitation of the armory is long overdue, and it will restore the landmark to meet the modern day needs of the Army. The updated armory will support unit training, serve as a state-of-the-art mobilization station, and support the Army in its modernization priorities. Our New York National Guard members selflessly serve their country and they deserve the best facilities we can provide.”
“I am proud to deliver a total of $90 million in federal funding to make transformational renovations to the historic Lexington Avenue Armory in Manhattan,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This funding will help the 120-year-old armory undergo extensive facility modernization to meet today’s readiness and state civil support needs.”
“The National Guard plays a critical role in New York’s readiness and civil support, and this $90 million investment will be transformative,” Governor Hochul said. “We’re grateful to our partners in Washington, including Leader Schumer, Senator Gillibrand and Representative Nadler, for securing this funding.”
Upon completion of the rehabilitation, the armory will emerge as a modern, adaptable, and sustainable facility, directly supporting the readiness of assigned units. It will serve as a state-of-the-art mobilization station and the epicenter of Manhattan’s civil support response capabilities, bolstering the city’s emergency preparedness efforts.
In addition to its military significance, the Lexington Avenue Armory holds cultural and community importance, particularly within New York’s Irish-American community. As detailed by the Irish Echo, the Fighting 69th Infantry has long been associated with New York’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, embodying the spirit of service and camaraderie.
Representative Nadler’s efforts in securing funding for the Lexington Avenue Armory are part of a broader initiative to support vital projects throughout New York’s 12th Congressional District. With a total of $104,392,279 in direct funding allocated to 15 projects, Nadler aims to address various infrastructure and community needs, ensuring the district continues to thrive.
As work commences on the rehabilitation of the Lexington Avenue Armory, anticipation builds for the unveiling of a revitalized facility that honors the past while embracing the future of military readiness and community resilience.
