Potential location of school (Parcel C)
Jan. 21, 2016 By Christian Murray
Mayor Bill de Blasio has set aside funds for three new schools in Long Island City, according to Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer.
The mayor released his 2017 preliminary budget today, which allocates $200 million for schools in Long Island City and Woodside.
Van Bramer said that the funds make provisions for three schools in Long Island City, with one in Woodside. He said two of the Long Island City schools will be elementary schools, with the third yet to be determined.
Van Bramer said that various agencies are zeroing in on possible Long Island City sites. He said that he spoke to Lorraine Grillo, President and CEO of the School Construction Authority, and the Mayor today about the need for schools.
“I told them the need is everywhere in Long Island City but clearly Hunters Point and Hunters Point South,” Van Bramer said.
Van Bramer said that one of the elementary schools is very likely to be built as part of the Hunters Point South development. He said that he is in discussions with TF Cornerstone, which is handling the next phase of the HPS development, about locating a school there.
He said TF Cornerstone would still provide the approximately 1,200 residential units that is part of its original design plan.
Van Bramer said the administration heard residents loud and clear in their demands for additional schools.
“Everyone in Long Island City has organized and raised their voices for years,” Van Bramer said.
Parents have circulated petitions demanding a school be included as part of the Hunters Point South developments. Furthermore, there are fears that the middle school at PS/IS 78 maybe phased out to make room for younger children.
Van Bramer said he has made it a priority getting schools to Long Island City.
“I have worked hard,” he said. “Every conversation in Long Island City involves new schools and this is why this happened.”
