A 124-year-old firehouse building in East Harlem is currently undergoing a $6 million transformation into a media center on behalf of Manhattan Neighborhood Network, an organization who administers the four Public Access cable TV channels in Manhattan. The 5,000-sq-ft media center is located at East 104 Street and upon its completion in will provide the community with full access to new communications technology.
Mc Gowan Builders of East Rutherford, N.J. is the construction manager on the project. Work includes the renovation of the firehouse’s landmarked masonry exterior walls, the construction of a new penthouse, elevator and mechanical, electrical and plumbing services. Mc Gowan is also installing live broadcast facilities, multipurpose rooms from community meetings, exhibition and performance spaces as well as access to broadband technology and production studios.
A Youth Media Center that will offer media skills and job training to young people between the ages of 12-25 is a key component of the new center. The Youth Media Center will produce 20 hours of youth programming per week that will be aired on MNN”s four channels. Those interested in film production, journalism or video editing will also have access to the center.
