Willets Point

The City’s most ambitious development in decades, Willets Point transforms a derelict patchwork of junkyards into an entirely new, fully resilient, interconnected neighborhood. S9 Architecture created the master plan and Phase 1 design for the development which includes retail, public space, community uses, pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, and three residential buildings. The Phase 1 housing will provide 1,100 100% affordable units in varied sizes to encourage a diverse mix of renters in the new community, including 220 units specially designed for seniors. Future phases will add another 1,400 residential units, a school, parks, new utilities, and an MLS stadium. S9's thoughtful design creates a contextual and connected community centered on public spaces, communal corridors, and pedestrian-friendly planning principles. The project is projected to generate $6.1 billion in economic impact over the next 30 years, creating 1,550 permanent jobs. Esther Dockery served as Project Manager and Project Architect, leading the full process and coordinating the design, documentation, and construction administration of the Phase 1 buildings. She managed a team of architects, consultants, and clients, ensuring the accurate, timely, and on-budget delivery of all materials of this complex project. Esther was also responsible for completing the lengthy process of approvals, applications, and coordination with City agencies necessary to remake Willets Point, including the ULURP process that achieved a rezoning of the entire district, which has paved the way for the development of future phases, including the stadium, additional infrastructure, and more housing.