A public hearing was held Wednesday over the future development of the historic Kingsbridge Armory, a 575,000 square foot facility that has sat vacant for more than 20 years. NY1's Dean Meminger filed the following report.

It's bigger than Madison Square Garden and has more space than a 60-story office building. Now the time has come to decide what will be developed at the 575,000 square foot Kingsbridge Armory.

Last year, the developer known as the Related Companies won the city bid to take over the historic site, with plans to turn it into stores and community space. But members of the community say some questions have to be answered.

"I think the public needs to have the opportunity to review those plans. They will have a presentation presented by Related to really see what Related is offering," said Community Board 7 District Manager Fernando Tirado.

Related says it is excited about the armory project. In a statement, the company says, "We look forward to working with the city, elected officials and community to restore this important landmark and create 'The Shops at the Armory' which will bring new jobs and economic development to the area.

Members of the Kingsbridge Armory Redevelopment Alliance say there has to be more for the neighborhood. That's what they want to hear when Community Board 7 holds the first of several public hearings under the city's Uniform Land Use Review Procedure.

"We are expecting the kind of community benefits that uplift the entire community where they are investing in the community and not creating an income center where everyone in the armory makes money and nothing filters out to the surrounding community," said Desiree Pilgrim-Hunter of the Kingsbridge Armory Redevelopment Alliance. "For us, we need a way to improve the living situation of the folks in the surrounding area. What won't do that is a part time job," said

"I wouldn't mind seeing a mall, I think that would be pretty cool," said one Kingsbridge resident.

"Educational programs, recreational programs. Something to get our youth off the street and into something positive," said another Kingsbridge resident.

The Kingsbridge Armory public hearing will be held tonight at Lehman College inside the music building beginning at 6:30 p.m.