Construction started Tuesday on a 170,000 square foot office and shopping facility in the Bronx. Local leaders say it will strengthen the 3rd Avenue Hub commercial district. Community leaders say the district has been empty for the last 30 years and they are looking forward to the redevelopment of the area. The project is expected to cost $43 million and bring about 500 jobs to the Bronx. The New York City Department of Finance says it will also locate its Bronx business center at this strip. At the new facility people will be able to pay bills, contest fines and check records. The new retail center is scheduled to open next summer.