Introduction to the Flushing Airport Redevelopment Plan
The city of New York is set to undergo a significant transformation with the announcement of a plan to develop 3,000 new homes on the abandoned Flushing Airport site in Queens. This ambitious project is part of Mayor Eric Adams’ ongoing effort to combat the city’s housing crisis. The proposal includes the construction of residential units ranging from "deeply affordable" to market-rate, with a focus on providing housing for middle-income New Yorkers.
Background on the Flushing Airport Site
The Flushing Airport site, which has been largely reclaimed by wetlands, was previously owned by the NYC Economic Development Corporation (NYC EDC). The airport operated from 1929 to 1984 and has since remained vacant. The development plan aims to preserve 60 acres of open space, creating "park-like" landscaping and incorporating sustainable design.
Rendering of the housing development proposal at the former Flushing Airport in Queens.
Credit: S9 Architecture
The Proposal and Its Benefits
The proposal was submitted by NYC-based firms Cirrus Workforce Housing and LCOR Incorporated, who won the request for proposals issued by the NYC EDC last year. The plan is expected to generate $3.2 billion in economic activity over the next 30 years, creating over 1,300 construction jobs and 530 permanent jobs. The development will provide much-needed housing for middle-income New Yorkers, with units ranging from affordable to market-rate.
Preserving the Wetlands
EDC CEO Andrew Kimball emphasized the importance of preserving the wetlands at the Flushing Airport site, which serve as a natural way to minimize flooding and provide habitat for diverse species. The redevelopment plan will protect and preserve the wetlands, ensuring that the natural environment is maintained.
Infrastructure and Transportation
The NYC EDC and Department of Transportation have completed a 0.7-mile extension of 132nd Street to improve traffic conditions and accommodate future traffic growth in the area. This infrastructure development will support the new housing units and ensure that the area is well-connected and accessible.
A Proud Legacy of Union Pension Investments
The city’s partnership with the New York City Building Trades and Cirrus supports the project to invest pension fund dollars from eleven unions into housing projects on city land. This investment marks a return to a proven model of union-built, middle-class housing in New York City, which is critically needed.
Conclusion
The redevelopment of the Flushing Airport site is a significant step towards addressing the city’s housing crisis. The proposal offers a range of benefits, from providing affordable housing to generating economic activity and preserving the natural environment. As the city continues to evolve and grow, it is essential to prioritize projects like this that support the needs of middle-income New Yorkers.
FAQs
Q: How many new homes will be built on the Flushing Airport site?
A: The proposal includes the construction of 3,000 new residential units.
Q: What is the expected economic impact of the development?
A: The plan is expected to generate $3.2 billion in economic activity over the next 30 years.
Q: Will the wetlands at the Flushing Airport site be preserved?
A: Yes, the redevelopment plan will protect and preserve the wetlands.
Q: Who are the partners involved in the project?
A: The city is partnering with the New York City Building Trades and Cirrus to invest pension fund dollars from eleven unions into housing projects on city land.
