Demolition has been approved for 445 Lenox Road, the site of a new annex for SUNY Downstate Hospital in East Flatbush, Brooklyn. The new building, part of the state’s $1.1 billion modernization of SUNY Downstate’s hospital facilities, will feature an ambulatory surgery center focused on expanding cardiology and oncology services. Russo Development Enterprises, Inc. is the demolition contractor for the condemned parking garage that currently occupies the site.
Rendering of new Downstate Annex, via Downstate Advisory Board.
Recent contract approval follows the December 2025 initiation of the design phase for two major components of the modernization program. The broader investment includes comprehensive infrastructure upgrades, expansion of the emergency department, and the conversion of all double-occupancy inpatient rooms into private rooms with showers. Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems throughout the existing hospital will also undergo significant rehabilitation.
Rendering of new Downstate Annex, via Downstate Advisory Board.
The annex represents one of two concurrent projects advanced under recommendations from the Downstate Community Advisory Board. Governor Kathy Hochul and the State Legislature have authorized $750 million in capital funding across the FY 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 enacted budgets, with SUNY committing additional annual capital allocations over the life of the project, bringing the total investment to more than $1 billion.
Construction on the project will proceed under a project labor agreement, with SUNY emphasizing participation by local contractors, including Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprises.
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Great project, unusual design.
Low slung..
It would be nicer if they increased the height of the front sections and used the back area to reconstruct the multi-level staff parking garage that is being replaced.