Visitor parking spots that were once free will now cost a Pomonok community center roughly $2,700, officials said.
The New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA), since partnering up in March with Greystone Parking Services, has come under fire for spiking some annual parking rates at 43 citywide developments.
Now it is facing more heat for billing the Pomonok Community Center $272 for 10 visitor spaces that used to be complimentary.
“The new parking fees at the Pomonok Community Center are outrageous and unacceptable, and NYCHA must repeal them immediately,” said Congressmember Grace Meng. “They’re treating this parking lot like it’s their own business, and it’s a business gone bad.”
The Pomonok Community Center at the Queens Community House provides meals, activities and cooling stations during hot weather to more than 50 seniors who visit daily, officials said.
“It’s unconscionable that NYCHA and Greystone are extorting money from senior citizens,” said State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky.
Monica Corbett, president of the Pomonok Resident Association, said the center is a second home to residents even outside the neighborhood.
Parking is already limited, she said, since Queens College and P.S. 201 are around the corner.
“The nearest senior center is not close nor is there an after-school center that serves children from K-5 grade,” Corbett said. “To ask staff and participants to pay for parking is asinine.”
Local leaders said hundreds of residents have complained to Greystone about a slew of issues — including months-long waits for parking permits and multiple cars being assigned to one spot — to no avail.
“The current policy is extremely shortsighted and threatens the operation of the center,” said Assemblymember Mike Simanowitz.
NYCHA did not immediately comment.
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