Before Mayor Michael Bloomberg gave his final State of the City speech at the shiny new Barclay’s Center in Brooklyn, some hypothesized that he would take the opportunity to make an announcement about the Kingsbridge Armory. Specifically, that the city had chosen a developer to re-invigorate the long-vacant space.

The theory made sense given that he had made the Armory’s redevelopment one of the key goals he outlined in the previous year’s speech.

It didn’t quite work out that way, although he did mention it, saying he wanted to “work with Borough President Diaz to bring new life — and good jobs — back to the Kingsbridge Armory.”

This past Tuesday, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz delivered his own “state of” speech in Soundview.

Diaz spent a lot of time talking about all of the “new” developments coming to the “New Bronx,” including a major commercial in “Kingsbridge.” Alas, he was talking about the new BJ’s going up on Broadway near East 238th Street.

Towards the end of his speech, Diaz said, “With Councilman Fernando Cabrera and Mayor Bloomberg, we will bring responsible development to the Kingsbridge Armory.”

“Jobs” and “responsible development.” At least it appears we’re still on the right track.

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in the Feb. 21-March 6, 2013 print edition of the Norwood News.