Queens Residents Sound Alarm as City Proposal Paves Way for High-Rise Development Amidst Gentrification Fears.
The proposed rezoning of a Queens Boulevard corridor has ignited intense opposition from Elmhurst residents, who warn that the plan could fuel gentrification and displacement in a neighborhood already struggling with rising housing costs. The development, slated to bring a 13-story, 314-unit residential tower – including 79 affordable units – has sparked concerns among community leaders and long-time residents about the potential for luxury housing, high-end stores, and decreased affordability.
Community Board 4 voted unanimously against the rezoning in June, despite Queens facing a severe shortage of affordable housing units. The proposal's supporters argue that it's essential to address the city's housing shortage, but critics see it as a threat to the very fabric of their community. "It's really out of character" for the area, said Brianna Cea, a member of the community board, who fears the high-rise development will lead to increased prices, displacement of small businesses, and erosion of Asian American culture.
Andrew Esposito, the founder of Apex Development Group, acknowledges the concerns but claims that his firm is engaged in discussions with government officials and community members. "There are conversations and improvements in the works," he said. However, it remains unclear whether these efforts will alleviate the fears of local residents.
The debate highlights the ongoing struggle between growth and gentrification in Queens. The city's largest rezoning plan in decades is set to be voted on by the City Council this week, sparking tensions across the borough. Elmhurst/Corona, where the proposed development sits, boasts a 2.1% apartment vacancy rate – significantly lower than the overall Queens average – and sees 31% of renters spend more than half their income on rent.
As new developments like the proposed tower come to fruition, some residents are cautiously embracing change, but with caveats. Lester Lin, a lifelong resident and business owner, recalls the neighborhood's neglected past and its struggles with crime. While he supports new development, he warns that "bad developers" can leave behind failed projects and urban blight.
Ultimately, the outcome of the rezoning proposal will depend on the willingness of Councilmember Shekar Krishnan to balance the city's housing needs with community concerns. As the process continues, one thing is clear: Elmhurst residents are determined to protect their neighborhood from the potential consequences of unchecked growth and gentrification.
The proposed rezoning of a Queens Boulevard corridor has ignited intense opposition from Elmhurst residents, who warn that the plan could fuel gentrification and displacement in a neighborhood already struggling with rising housing costs. The development, slated to bring a 13-story, 314-unit residential tower – including 79 affordable units – has sparked concerns among community leaders and long-time residents about the potential for luxury housing, high-end stores, and decreased affordability.
Community Board 4 voted unanimously against the rezoning in June, despite Queens facing a severe shortage of affordable housing units. The proposal's supporters argue that it's essential to address the city's housing shortage, but critics see it as a threat to the very fabric of their community. "It's really out of character" for the area, said Brianna Cea, a member of the community board, who fears the high-rise development will lead to increased prices, displacement of small businesses, and erosion of Asian American culture.
Andrew Esposito, the founder of Apex Development Group, acknowledges the concerns but claims that his firm is engaged in discussions with government officials and community members. "There are conversations and improvements in the works," he said. However, it remains unclear whether these efforts will alleviate the fears of local residents.
The debate highlights the ongoing struggle between growth and gentrification in Queens. The city's largest rezoning plan in decades is set to be voted on by the City Council this week, sparking tensions across the borough. Elmhurst/Corona, where the proposed development sits, boasts a 2.1% apartment vacancy rate – significantly lower than the overall Queens average – and sees 31% of renters spend more than half their income on rent.
As new developments like the proposed tower come to fruition, some residents are cautiously embracing change, but with caveats. Lester Lin, a lifelong resident and business owner, recalls the neighborhood's neglected past and its struggles with crime. While he supports new development, he warns that "bad developers" can leave behind failed projects and urban blight.
Ultimately, the outcome of the rezoning proposal will depend on the willingness of Councilmember Shekar Krishnan to balance the city's housing needs with community concerns. As the process continues, one thing is clear: Elmhurst residents are determined to protect their neighborhood from the potential consequences of unchecked growth and gentrification.
They should defo slow down on this high-rise development or at least make sure they're not displacing anyone 
It's already so hard for people to afford a home in Elmhurst, I don't know how much more they can take 
. They're just going to drive up prices even more and push out all the small businesses and long-time residents like Lester Lin said. And what's with the "affordable" units? 79 is hardly a drop in the bucket considering how expensive housing costs are already. I mean, can't they build something that actually benefits the community instead of just catering to luxury developers? 
This whole thing just feels like another example of gentrification happening right under our noses 
. Gentrification is already happening, and it's gonna be a mess if we don't get our act together. I mean, 79 affordable units out of a 314-unit tower? That's not exactly the kind of progress we need right now 
. Can't we find a way to grow without displacing the people who've been there for years? It's all about balance, man...
. I mean, Queen's got a housing shortage already... we don't need more luxury units, we need more affordable ones 
. The community board spoke up, and that's awesome, but it's up to the Councilmember to make some real changes. Can't let our neighborhoods get lost in the mix of growth and greed 
.