A $50 million project to convert an abandoned Endicott Johnson building into a senior apartment complex is on hold with its future in doubt.

Broome County Executive Jason Garnar announced the redevelopment plan for the old Victory Building on Lester Avenue in Johnson City in January of last year. The proposal called for 228 apartments at the site.

In a brief telephone conversation, developer Isaac Anzaroot insisted the project is "not dead." He told WNBF News "it is going forward" but declined to discuss details.

Anzaroot referred a reporter to an associate, Conan Cerretani. He said they've "had to go back to the drawing board" because they were not able to acquire another nearby building.

Cerretani said the old Endicott Johnson structure at 19 Avenue B was to have been "a key part" of the Victory redevelopment project.

But Johnson City Mayor Greg Deemie has confirmed the village has approved the sale of the Avenue B property and has received a down payment for it. He said the buyer, 19 Avenue B Associates LLC, are linked to the local Fahs and Lane organizations.

The building on the left is at 19 Avenue B, located just south of the old EJ Victory factory. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
The building on the left is at 19 Avenue B, located just south of the old EJ Victory factory. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
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Cerretani said a smaller project may ultimately be pursued but, he added, "we have every intention of going forward" in redeveloping the Lester Avenue building.

County executive Garnar is frustrated by the lack of progress at the site.

During an appearance on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program, Garnar said he plans to have "a very pointed discussion" with the developer.

The county executive said "there's a lot of interest in the property" and he'd be open to seeking another developer if Anzaroot can't get the project going in the near future.

An entity controlled by Anzaroot purchased the site from the county for $250,000 in December 2017.

A view of the north side of the former Endicott Johnson Victory Building. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
A view of the north side of the former Endicott Johnson Victory Building. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com

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