Scarborough Says Gov Intended To Cut Funds

A stretch of six-blocks in Jamaica may get a spruced up look now that Community Board 12 gave the go-ahead to create a Business Improvement District (BID) along Sutphin Boulevard.
The new BID would be the third in Downtown Jamaica and would run between Hillside and 94th Avenues. Before it can be implemented, the BID must also be approved by the City Planning Commission, City Council and the Mayor.
Business development supporters believe the BID would make the busy thoroughfare cleaner and more attractive and it would lure more stores and offices.
"It will bring about positive changes along the street and make it a better place to work, live and have a business," said Ben Harris, owner of Early Bird Limousine and Car Service on Sutphin, who spoke at Board 12s public hearing and meeting on the new BID.
Harris noted that the BID could be a helpful agent when the Jamaica Station of AirTrain on Sutphin opens this fall. He believes the new station will bring increased traffic, which the BID can help regulate. "A BID can help control the problem and make sure the people walking or driving by see a pleasant and attractive street that they will return to."
April Jones, owner of the Colemans Corner Day Care on Sutphin Boulevard and a co-chair of the committee trying to create the BID, said the new organization would provide increased sanitation services and a enhance the beauty of street by decorating it with banners and holiday lights. She also believed security would improve and the area would be promoted "as a good place to shop, have an office or conduct a business."
In recent years, Downtown Jamaica has undergone much revitalization. In addition to stores, restaurants and offices, Sutphin Boulevard is home to the State Supreme Court and Queens County Civil Court.
The other two Downtown Jamaica BIDS are the Jamaica Center Improvement Association and 165th Street Mall Improvement Association. Greater Jamaica Development Corporation is providing technical assistance to the new BID