“Victory Lofts” Opening at Old Endicott Johnson Factory Delayed

A project to develop a 156-unit apartment complex in a former shoe manufacturing plant in Johnson City is taking longer than expected to complete.

January 1 had been the target occupancy date for the Victory Lofts complex at 59 Lester Avenue. But Syracuse-based developer Matthew Paulus now is planning for residential occupancy on March 1.

In an email to WNBF News, Paulus said a "redevelopment of this magnitude has required additional time for its completion."

Paulus did not cite any specific reasons for the delay. But Broome County Executive Jason Garnar said two new transformers had to be installed by NYSEG for the complex at the old Endicott Johnson factory.

In an interview, Garnar said the utility had been having trouble getting the necessary transformer to the project site. He said that problem has been resolved.

Garnar said he believes the "apartments are in demand." He said "it's an absolutely beautiful building."

When Paulus announced the project two years ago, he said 108 units were planned for what was expected to be a $30 million job. The estimated price tag has increased to $40 million for a complex that now will include 156 apartments. The building also will have about 7,500 square feet in commercial space.

In his email, Paulus wrote: "The response from the community and future residents has exceeded our expectations and we look forward to the successful transformation of the area’s most historic and iconic buildings."

The Endicott Johnson factory produced footwear for decades. It went into operation in 1921. The shoe company closed the plant in 1969.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or (607) 545-2250. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.