A Conversation With Lester Petracca of Triangle Equities

In this profile interview, Triangle Equities’ President Lester Petracca discusses the company’s evolution from smaller suburban and retail-focused projects into large-scale, mixed-use developments across New York City’s outer boroughs. He attributes much of the company's success to strategic land acquisition—emphasizing that "when you acquire the land you win half the battle"—and to fostering strong relationships with municipalities and community partners.

Petracca outlines Triangle’s strategy of seeking underutilized or transit-oriented sites outside of Manhattan, where they can deliver comprehensive, value-add projects that combine residential, hotel, office, and retail components. He notes both the challenges (rising construction costs, complex approvals, timing risks) and the opportunities in tackling ambitious mixed-use projects in emerging neighborhoods.

He highlights Triangle Equities' development at the Staten Island Ferry Terminal as a key example of their forward-looking approach—leveraging waterfront locations and layered uses to unlock both economic and community value.