NEW YORK CITY—A new report ranks the nation's top 20 such places—and singles out the top 10 locally—while also noting the general rise of food-related retail.

Here is a roundup of the latest leases, sales and other transactions in the Northeast middle markets.

NEW YORK CITY—Much has been made of activity in these outer boroughs—while the potential of the Bronx and even Staten Island are oft discussed—but Manhattan is driving construction, according to a new report.

NEW YORK CITY—The landlord—an affiliate of the Blackstone Group—secured the occupier while an extensive capital improvement program is underway at the Midtown East property.

NEW YORK CITY—The newest tenant at the building, which is owned by Edward J. Minskoff Equities, comes to the property while a renovation is taking place.

NEW YORK CITY—The firm accentuates the positive in a new report, noting an increase in participation in the market here—and of innovation—by retailers in the face of declining costs.

NEW YORK CITY—Located in Greenwich Village, the 140,000-square-foot commercial building will be repositioned to become a Class A asset.

NEW YORK CITY—The property, a Beaux-Arts building with landmark status, is being redeveloped in conjunction with Prime Rok Real Estate.