At the far edge of Queens sits the imposing beige-brick Creedmoor Psychiatric Center, looming over surrounding suburban streets lined with matching red-brick co-op apartments with small green lawns and tidy white shutters. For the most part, this huge state-run facility keeps to itself. But lately, neighborhood residents have noted a growing number of men – […]
Queens
Locked Out: Borough Jails Critics Say They’ve Been Excluded From Post-Rikers Meetings
As a $10 billion plan to build four new jails across the city forges ahead, many residents and activists charge they’ve been locked out of the discussion for months. “They’re saying, ‘Oh there are so many opportunities for community engagement,’” said Nancy Kong, a Manhattan community activist. “No, you guys already made the decision. You […]
Developers Donate Big to Queens DA Candidate Who Vows Construction Crackdown
When Queens Borough President Melinda Katz announced her candidacy for district attorney in December, she sought to stand out as an advocate for workers injured or ripped off on the job – especially on construction sites. “Developers and construction companies will be held accountable if they fail to follow the law and keep their workers […]
No Relief as Pricey Park Bathrooms Put Pressure on Taxpayers
New York City completed its most expensive park bathroom ever last year: a $4.7 million facility at The Bronx’ Ferry Point Park West. Now, a $6 million loo is on tap for Staten Island’s Seaside Wildlife Nature Park. A review of capital projects reveals a pipeline of park bathrooms growing steadily in estimated cost. And […]
Interview With the Amazon Slayer
The nomination of Queens State Senator Mike Gianaris to a post with veto power spelled the beginning of the end for Amazon’s HQ2. His next target: New York’s vast system of corporate tax breaks. THE CITY: What would you say if you had five minutes alone with Jeff Bezos?Senator Mike Gianaris: I would ask him […]