New Owner for Pleasantville's MLA Property

The former Medical Laboratory Automation Inc. (MLA) site will soon be revamped into a functioning office space and manufacturing site on Pleasantville's Marble Avenue.

J.A. Henckels International, a cutlery manufacturer, will be moving from its current space on Route 9A in Hawthorne to the village.

"We are very, very pleased that Henckels has chosen to make such a major investment in Pleasantville, and we are delighted that—for the first time in more than a decade—this major property will be a productive part of Pleasantville's commercial economy," said Peter Scherer, the village's mayor, in an email.

The large lot at 270 Marble Ave. has been owned by The Stop & Shop Supermarket Company during its vacancy.

Said Scherer, "[J.A. Henckels] anticipates renovating the existing building to establish their U.S. headquarters offices along the front of the building with a warehouse/distribution facility behind it."

Pleasantville Chamber of Commerce President Bill Flooks remembered the mayor pledged to find a buyer for the site during his campaign.

"And he did," said Flooks, adding, "It will give a new look to the Marble Avenue corridor."

The village board of trustees has been vocal about its desire to upgrade the façade of the street, which is also home to such buildings as the currently unoccupied former building and .

Restaurant recently opened on the street, while of the Old Village is , too.

According to Flooks, Henckels plans to "redo the whole front, raise the roof and take down the abandoned house" on the corner of Castleton Street.

"Henckels will file for site-plan review by the Planning Commission in January," said Scherer. "Their use is consistent with the Marble Avenue zoning."

Flooks said the approximately 75-employee company will operate in one shift only, so it's "not noisy 24/7."

The buyer also plans to keep its loading docks in the rear of the property, "so it's not even going to be visible," he added.

Said Flooks, "I think this is one of the best things to happen to Pleasantville in recent years."

J.A. Henckels International did not immediately return messages seeking comment.

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