Community Rings The Bell Over Reconstruction

Imagine a neighborhood with long, brick sidewalks, uniform newspaper stands, and enough benches for anyone to rest their feet after an exhausting day of shopping. This quaint idea of nirvana is a dream for all communities, but could soon become a reality for a neighborhood right in your own backyard.
Baysides Bell Boulevard is set to undergo a two-year reconstruction project from 35 Ave. to the Long Island Railroad Station, encompassing one of Queens most prolific business districts. The restoration project will be designed by noted architect William Kuhl, whose award-winning Franklin Avenue Beautification Project in Garden City has helped boost retail businesses within the Long Island community.
"We want to bring in a village atmosphere, similar to the Hamptons," said Judith Limpert, co-president of the Bayside Business Association and vice-president of North Fork Bank. She added that they are not looking to add to any of the current businesses on Bell boulevard, but rather enhance the existing ones.
Funding for the project was secured by State Senator Frank Padavan, by virtue of a million dollar grant by the Empire State Development Corporation. "We are trying to increase the desirability of shopping along Bell," said Padavan, who noted that adding parking to the congested boulevard is also a top priority. Kuhls landscapes can already be seen throughout Queens. The architect is the brains behind the modern Queens College Science Facility, and he will soon commence work on the universitys Student Union.