Brooklyn, New York will soon become home to a commercial-scale greenhouse farm combined with a retail grocery space, Whole Foods Market announced yesterday.

Under the design and planning of Gotham Greens, the 20,000 square foot greenhouse is currently being constructed on the roof of the new Whole Foods Market in Gowanus, Brooklyn. The store is expected to open this fall.

Whole Foods Market Northeast regional president Christina Minardi expressed excitement to work with a Brooklyn-based company

"Gotham Greens has been a valued local supplier of high quality, flavorful and fresh produce to Whole Foods Market since early 2011, making this greenhouse project a natural and extremely exciting next step in our relationship," Minardi said.

"We’re particularly excited to partner with a local organization with roots right here in Brooklyn and a mission in line with our own, in that we both care deeply about providing local, fresh and sustainably produced food."

Among the operational benefits, Whole Foods said the space will use a highly efficient irrigation system that uses up to 20 times less water than conventional farming. The greenhouse will also use enhanced glazing material and electrical equipment to reduce energy use, and it will reduce long-distance food transport into New York City.

Gotham Greens co-founder Viraj Puri emphasized the local aspect of the project.

"Our greenhouse will provide Whole Foods Market shoppers with access to the freshest, most delicious leafy greens, herbs and tomatoes, year-round that will be grown right above the store’s produce department," Puri said.

"We’re thrilled with this partnership and to be part of the growing national movement of farmers and food producers committed to providing consumers with high quality, responsibly produced food."

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