Several infrastructure and economic development projects in Queens will benefit from the influx of federal funds coming from the recently-passed stimulus package.
In order to maintain accountability and transparency in the city’s use of stimulus funding, all federal monies allocated can be closely tracked at www.nyc.gov. The “Stimulus Tracker” currently lists the transportation projects supported by stimulus funding, including project descriptions, a map of project locations, funding amounts, and the city agency managing each project. Funding for additional projects and programs will be tracked as it becomes available.
“New Yorkers want major investments in infrastructure, but they want to know their money is being spent wisely,” said Mayor Michael Bloomberg. “We’ve made all city stimulus spending available online, so the public can hold city government accountable for the efficient and cost-effective use of stimulus dollars.”
Some projects will receive direct federal funding including roadway improvements such as 37th Street over the Brooklyn Queens Expressway, Superior Road over the Cross Island Parkway and the Jackie Robinson Parkway over Austin Street.
Other projects will also receive displaced federal funds. Blow is a quick snapshot of some of the projects that will receive more money and help create jobs in the borough.
Queens Plaza, Long Island City – Phase I
The improvements will rationalize the traffic network, enhance the pedestrian environment, improve streetscape elements and create a public plaza as part of the redevelopment of Long Island City.
Total Project Cost: $60 million
Displaced Funding Received: $22 million
Other Funding: $18.3 million City Capital Funds, $19.7 million Federal Funds
Construction Bid: Summer 2009
Estimated Completion: Spring 2011
Queens Plaza, Long Island City – Phase II
This phase includes streetscape improvements along Queens Plaza North and South between Northern Boulevard/Jackson Avenue and Vernon Boulevard, including new sidewalks, street trees in a continuous trench with cobble and lighting.
Total Project Cost: $75 million
Displaced Funding Received: $15 million
Other Funding: $40.3 million City Capital funds, $19.7 million Federal Funds
Construction Bid: Summer 2009
Estimated Completion: Spring 2011
Reconstruction of Rockaway Boardwalk
Reconstruction will take place from Beach 50th to 55th Streets, Beach 77th to 81st Streets, Beach 23rd to 27th Streets, and Beach 44th to Beach 50th Street. Maintaining a state of good repair along the boardwalk will support the rapid increase in new housing and development in the Rockaways and help ensure the health of local tourism and recreation industries.
Total Project Cost: $15 million
Displaced Funding Received: $15 million
Other Funding: $0
Construction Bid: Spring 2009
Estimated Completion: Spring 2011
Reconstruction of College Point/32nd Avenue
This project includes the reconstruction of 32nd Avenue from Linden Place to College Point Boulevard and replacement of deteriorated concrete on College Point Boulevard from Fowler Avenue to the Whitestone Expressway. It will include roadway improvements in the commercial district and encourage more activity in the area.
Total Project Cost: $12 million
Displaced Funding Received: $12 million
Other Funding: $0
Construction Bid: Fall 2009
Estimated Completion: Fall 2011
Replacement of Hillside Avenue Sidewalk (Jamaica)
Replace most of the existing sidewalks on Hillside Avenue from the Van Wyck Expressway to 191st Street, which are in a dilapidated condition. It includes landscaping and replacement of existing lampposts and any damaged curb.
Total Project Cost: $10 million
Displaced Funding Received: $10 million
Other Funding: $0
Construction Bid: Spring 2009
Estimated Completion: Fall 2010
Extension of 132nd Street/Linden Place Extension
The project will extend 132nd Street between Linden Place and 20th Avenue improving traffic conditions and accommodating anticipated traffic growth from office and industrial development at College Point Corporate Park.
Total Project Cost: $7 million
Displaced Funding Received: $7 million
Other Funding: $0
Construction Bid: Spring 2010
Estimated Completion: Winter 2014
