State Senator Joseph Addabbo and community leaders unveiled a new sign on Monday, November 7, welcoming all of Queens to Richmond Hill.
The “Welcome to Richmond Hill” sign stands on a triangle at an intersection between Liberty Avenue and 133rd Street.
Local realtor Romeo Hitlall worked for four-and-a-half years with Addabbo and others to put the sign up. He said it represents the growing South Asian and West Indian commercial strip.
“I can’t say enough of Romeo, who showed that persistence pays off,” Addabbo said. “This is a great, diverse community. They deserve a sign.”
Hitlall will also maintain the new sign and triangle space. The sign — as well as newly-planted shrubs and greenery — have replaced the trash that used to be there.
“This makes good use of the space,” Hitlall said. “People like the idea of cleaning up the community.”
Richmond Hill resident Diana Allie said the sign was a good addition to the area.
“This will keep it peaceful for the kids and parents,” said Allie, who lost her son to violence a year ago.
