NEW YORK CITY-The Hudson Companies and Related Companies’ joint venture, Hudson Related Retail orchestrated new retail leases and helped current tenants renew their leases as part of the commercial real estate transformation of Roosevelt Island, according to a statement. The company says that due to increased residency on the island, retail properties were in higher demand and therefore, the timing was right to go forward with the leasing.

“These new retail tenants will bring much-anticipated and desirable services to the local community of 14,000 residents which, until now, had very few dining options on Main Street,” David Kramer, a principal with The Hudson Companies, was quoted as saying. “Residents will now have even greater option to shop, dine and relax without leaving the Island and we look forward to sharing additional tenant news in the near future.”

A statement from the company provided insight into the recent renewals and signings. New retail properties include Island Spirts, a wine and liquor store, and Wholesome Direct, a gourmet and organic natural food market. In the next leasing phase, it is hoped that the required capital funding will come to fruition for a new library branch.