T
he last remaining meatpackers in the Meatpacking District are set to vacate their historic site, paving the way for a major transformation. The city plans to redevelop the 66,000 square-foot parcel of land into 600 rental apartments, with 300 units reserved for affordable housing. The project also includes an expansion of the Whitney Museum and new facilities for Friends of the High Line.

    The area's meat merchants have dwindled significantly in recent decades, as luxury hotels, trendy restaurants, and high-end fashion retailers like Gucci and Hermes took over. Under a historic agreement with the Economic Development Corp., the last seven meatpackers will move out ahead of their 2032 lease expiration.

    Mayor Eric Adams' vision for Gansevoort Square includes a massive open pavilion and a cultural hub, which would become the city's next major artistic destination. The project is expected to be announced by First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres Springer at an Association for a Better New York gathering on Monday.

    Gansevoort Market president John Jobbagy cited technological advances as the reason for the market's outdated processing facilities, making it an ideal time for the meatpackers to relocate. However, it remains unclear what will happen next, with some sources suggesting that the companies may not be obligated to move out until a project is secured for the site.

    The city has given the Whitney Museum "right of first offer" over the entire site, and Friends of the High Line is also in talks with the City and the museum about expanding onto the neighboring site.