NEW YORK — Google plans to purchase the St. John's terminal development in Manhattan for $2.1 billion, which would mark the biggest commercial office space deal in the country since the pandemic began.

“Google's historic investment in New York City marks an enormous step for our recovery," said Mayor Bill de Blasio, in a press release. "The purchase of St. John's Terminal will ensure New York remains a global leader in technology as well as a place that people are excited to live and work in."

Google currently leases the space, but intends to buy it in the first quarter of next year.

​“This announcement from Google is yet another proof point that New York's economy is recovering and rebuilding. We are creating jobs, investing in emerging industries, lifting up New Yorkers, and together, we are writing our comeback story,” said Gov. Kathy Hochul, in a press release.

The purchase is part of Google’s plan to boost its investment in New York City.

Once a freight terminal, the space is being reimagined as an office building that would include several outdoor spaces and connect Hudson Square to the neighborhood waterfront.

Google owns other office buildings in Manhattan, including the Chelsea Market, home to NY1.