Forest City Ratner Names New Head of Modular Division
Forest City Ratner is doubling down on modular housing—it has staffed a newly created executive position that will lead the firm’s modular housing operation. The subsidiary, dubbed FC Modular, will be run by Susan Hayes, who was formerly an exec at Manhattan-based construction management company Cauldwell Wingate, Forest City confirmed Monday, according to Crain’s New York Business. “Modular construction is an important part of the future for our industry, and Susan will bring tremendous value as we seek new business partners and source new business opportunities going forward,” said Forest City CEO MaryAnne Gilmartin. Forest City is building what is expected to be the world’s tallest modular structure at the corner of Flatbush Avenue and Dean Street, in the shadow of the Barclays Center. That project is known as B2 BKLYN and will rise to 32 stories once completed. The modular units are being built at a factory in the Brooklyn Navy Yard. Construction delays, a ballooning budget and a legal battle led Forest City to break with project partner Skanska last year. But Susan’s hire is a signal that Forest City expects to keep its Brooklyn Naval Yard factory churning out modular components following B2 BKLYN’s completion. [Crain's]
