Popular going forward with $30M ‘Urban Hub’ project
At a time when major construction projects in Puerto Rico are at a standstill, Popular Inc. is moving forward with its $30 million Urban Hub project in Hato Rey, where several pieces were installed over the weekend.
The parallelogram-shaped structures that make up a 184-foot bridge connecting the Urban Train station and the Popular Center building is part of a transformation of the bank’s Golden Mile headquarters, Popular Inc. CEO Richard Carrión said.
“Transforming Popular’s surroundings is a reflection of our vision of urban planning for the area and a commitment to the development of Puerto Rico,” he said.
At the project’s current stage of development and construction, more than 50 companies — including construction, equipment and materials suppliers, services and local consultants — have been hired directly and indirectly generating more than 300 jobs. Once the project is completed, it is estimated that it will generate more than 40 direct and indirect jobs, the bank said.
The project features a modern design that takes into consideration the significance of an enviromentally friendly structure. Inside, it encompasses ornamental elements of water and vegetation and photovoltaic panels on the roof that will generate alternative energy to reduce electricity consumption within the structures.
Construction of the Urban Hub project began late last year and is part of the bank’s ongoing development.