Unbeknownst to many, there is a vacant, weed-strewn parking lot at the prominent and increasingly valuable corner of Fifth Avenue and Central Park North (110th Street) in Harlem. The lot is owned by La Hermosa Christian Church who holds services and community events in a three-story sanctuary next door at 3-5 West 110th Street. As the northern end of Central Park sees a growing amount of luxury development, the lot's days appear to be numbered, especially since the congregation has tapped New Jersey-based MVMK Architects to study plans to redevelop the sanctuary and vacant lot next door.
La Hermosa's website acknowledges the area is undergoing rapid renewal but will strive to reconnect with the community, be aware of the social changes of the immediate neighborhood, and to reorient its vision and mission. They state, "New plans for the construction of a modern building have been started with the purpose of promoting the spiritual life of the church and meeting the social needs of our community." says the congregation. Images on MVMK's website show a shapely glass tower some 25-30 floors high. Conceptual plans show there will be religious functions on lower floors, such as a new sanctuary space, banquet hall, and gymnasium; all topped by 18 floors of residential apartments amounting to 110 units. Also shown in this early concept are a 40-vehicle underground parking lot and a separate commercial unit.
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The circular intersection the site sits on is also known as Duke Ellington Circle and is anchored by a statue of the jazz musician with his grand piano. Whatever rises from the lot will have remarkable, unobstructed views down Fifth Avenue and across Central Park.
Across Fifth Avenue, the octagonal Schomburg Towers, now dubbed The Heritage, has undergone a top-to-bottom renovation incited from being bought out of the Mitchell Lama affordable housing program in 2005. Apartments in the three-building complex range from studios to five bedrooms and currently are priced from $2,595. Nearby, a succession of record-breaking condo buildings have opened their doors. They include 111 Central Park North, One Museum Mile, and Circa Central Park. Soon-to-come condos include 10 Lenox Avenue and 145 Central Park North. However, a deluge of affordable apartments will come to the area once the 384-unit Sendero Verde project opens in 2021.
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