With Wal-Mart Out, Large Development Proposed

Shoppers need not fret. Although Wal-Mart will not be coming to Queens, the site in Rego Park may still serve a retail purpose, as well as a residential one.
According to Vornado Realty Trust, the location may still be home to a three-story mall, two residential towers and 1,416 parking spaces.
The plans for the 1.8-million-square-foot complex were unveiled at last week’s Community Board (CB) 6 meeting to mixed reactions.
“You have Queens Center Mall not too far from there,” said Robert Hassele, who resides in the area. “This may affect it as per business.”
Michael Berfield also announced at the meeting that Vornado is currently in discussions with a potential tenant, a branch of the Century 21 retail chain.
But those claiming victory over Wal-Mart are still concerned that any development will only increase vehicular congestion, pollution and school overcrowding in the area.
“Congestion is terrible, especially on 63rd Drive,” said Hassele. “If it happens, we will definitely need a police presence.”
Vornado countered the environmental concerns, saying that its Environmental Impact Statement addressed these and that its plans for development were in keeping with area trends.
The plans may not be a reality as of yet, as Vornado needs to get several variances in order to build. The site, which is flanked by the Long Island Expressway and Junction Boulevard, is zoned for residential and community development and will require a variance to adjust the amount of parking spaces needed to accommodate shoppers.
“Personally, I would have preferred a Wal-Mart because it’s more price-efficient for local shoppers,” said Hassele. “A store like that would really serve the community needs better.”
When The Queens Courier attempted to contact CB 6 officials, District Manager Kathleen Histon declined to comment on her opinion of the proposals. She did say that a vote on the plan will take place at the April 13 meeting, after which it will be forwarded to other agencies.
Dan Andrews, spokesperson for Borough President Helen Marshall, said, “We need [Vornado] to come in and give us a detailed presentation to see how the plans will fit on that parcel. The likelihood is that they won’t be bringing in tenants with a history of labor issues [like those that Wal-Mart had].”