Trump Village
Overview
Trump Village is a complex of residential buildings located in the neighborhood of Coney Island, in the borough of Brooklyn, New York City. The complex was named after its developer, Fred Trump, who was a prominent real estate developer in New York City during the mid-20th century. Trump Village consists of seven 23-story buildings, housing over 3,500 apartments. It was one of the largest private residential developments in the city when it was completed in 1964.
History
The development of Trump Village was part of a larger urban renewal effort in Coney Island during the 1960s. Fred Trump acquired the land for the development through a controversial urban renewal program, which involved the displacement of thousands of low-income residents. The construction of Trump Village was financed through a government-backed loan, under a program designed to encourage the construction of affordable housing. However, the apartments in Trump Village were initially sold as co-ops, at prices that were out of reach for many of the displaced residents.
Architecture
The buildings in Trump Village were designed in the International Style, a modernist architectural style that was popular during the mid-20th century. The buildings feature simple geometric forms, with minimal ornamentation. The facades are clad in red brick, with large windows that provide natural light to the apartments. The complex also includes several amenities, such as a shopping center, a school, and a community center.
Controversies
Over the years, Trump Village has been the subject of several controversies. In the 1970s, Fred Trump was accused of racial discrimination in the allocation of apartments in the complex. In the 1990s, the co-op board of Trump Village was involved in a legal dispute over the management of the complex. More recently, the complex has faced criticism over its conversion to a condominium, which has led to significant increases in the cost of apartments.
Current Status
Today, Trump Village remains a significant residential complex in Coney Island. The complex is managed by a condominium association, which is responsible for the maintenance of the buildings and the provision of services to the residents. The apartments in the complex are a mix of owner-occupied units and rental apartments. The complex continues to face challenges, including the need for significant capital repairs and the impact of rising housing costs in the area.