One of the most famous landmarks in the Bronx has been vacant since 1978. But after nearly four decades as the biggest symbol of urban decay, the Old Bronx Borough Courthouse will become the home of the Success Academy High School of the Liberal Arts.

Liberty Square Realty has owned the building since 1998, and has already spent $10 million to repair some of its historic details.

Now, Success Academy has signed a 20-year lease on the nine-story, 113,000-square-foot building at 878 Brook Ave. The project has also received a large contribution from billionaire hedge fund leader, John Paulson.

“Forty years ago, this building housed prisoners waiting for trial,” said Eva Moskowitz, CEO of the Success Academy. “That space will be transformed into beautiful, modern classrooms and a historic house of learning.”

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