In an exciting development for residents of Queens, Mayor Eric Adams has announced plans to convert an abandoned airfield in Flushing into a housing complex featuring 3,000 new homes. This site, which has been vacant since the 1980s, previously functioned as the Flushing Airport, one of New York City’s busiest airports when it opened in 1929.
Mayor Adams emphasized the dual focus of this project, stating, “We are protecting nature, but making sure we’re protecting children and families to have the housing they need.” The project will maintain 60 acres of wetland while establishing a modern housing development in College Point, with construction expected to commence in 2028.
This initiative is part of a broader mission to tackle New York’s housing crisis. The Mayor aims to facilitate the construction of 500,000 new homes by 2032 as part of his “City Of Yes” plan. This includes a concerted effort to find city-owned sites for housing through an executive order that directs all agencies to review their portfolios.
The partnership includes Cirrus Workforce Housing and the New York City Building Trades, which highlights a commitment to providing homes for the city’s essential workers, including healthcare professionals, sanitation workers, and teachers. Gary LaBarbera from the Building and Construction Trades Council has echoed the sentiment, noting the importance of workforce housing for those who form the backbone of the city.
This proposal not only aims to restore a previously underutilized area but also serves as a hopeful step towards addressing the urgent demand for affordable housing in New York City. The transformation of this airfield could signal a significant change for Flushing and its residents, enhancing access to homes and contributing to the community’s growth and vibrancy.