IKEA Nixes Controversial New Rochelle Project

NEW ROCHELLE, NY-A controversial plan to build a 300,000 sf IKEA store, which brought out hundreds of area residents at public hearings a few months ago, has been scrapped by the furniture retailer and city government. Mayor Timothy Idoni and IKEA officials announced on Jan. 31 the decision was mutual to abandon the plan for the Fifth Avenue Redevelopment Area.

The mayor had recently sent IKEA a letter requesting it investigate 14 areas of concern the city had with the venture. The project, which called for the development of a store in excess of 300,000 sf, was in the approval process with the city.

“During lengthy meetings between IKEA and city officials, we have jointly and amicably concluded that the proposed IKEA project is not in our mutual best interests,” Mayor Idoni stated. “After the release of the 14 points IKEA listened closely to the concerns and responded with a revised plan that is commendable. However, there were certain points relating to store size that for timing reasons could not be met.”