Rendering
April 2, 2015 By Christian Murray
Assemblywoman Cathy Nolan is calling on the MTA to “rethink” the deal it struck with a development company that paves the way for it to construct a 70 story building in the heart of Queens Plaza.
The proposed tower, which would be the tallest building in Queens, would consist of 925 units and be located at 29-37 41st Ave.
The property was originally zoned for 38 floors. However, the MTA sold development rights for $56 million that allows the developer, Queens Plaza Park Development, to build the 70-plus story tower.
Nolan opposes the deal, which has yet to close.
“The extreme height of this building would be out of character with the neighborhood and not supported by the present infrastructure,” she said in a statement.
However, with the MTA deal, the 70 story building conforms with New York City zoning regulations and the developer is able to build it as-of-right. The MTA claims that the matter Nolan is concerned about deals with zoning.
“I am concerned that as the Long Island City community continues to grow, the demand for basic transportation needs, health facilities and classroom seats are not keeping up with demand. This proposed development will add another 925 units and possibly, by conservative estimates another 1500-2000 people.
Our community cannot take another big development without dramatic improvements to the current infrastructure in transportation, health facilities and schools. I am calling on the MTA to rethink this deal because the quality of life for our community and Queens Transit riders will be seriously diminished.”
The MTA responded with a statement:
“The MTA Board voted on March 26 to approve the transfer of development rights based on the clear benefits for our Capital Program and thus for our growing ridership that depends on our ability to renew, enhance and expand transit infrastructure.”
