By Naeisha Rose
City Councilman I. Daneek Miller (D-St. Albans) secured over $5 million for technology, 11 schools, parks and a hospital in the capital projects budget for 2018.
He also allocated money for health, security, fitness and auditoriums, as well as upgrades for three playgrounds, a hospital and two other organizations as well as the creation of a business workspace.
The capital budget covers investments in facilities and infrastructure from funds set aside by the city.
“These capital projects will help ensure residents today and into the future will have the opportunities to enjoy the community we all had a hand in building,” said Miller. “Funding was allocated to a variety of projects to enhance services that are being delivered, enabling families to enjoy the many cultural and recreational activities we have, stay healthy, and give our young scholars the skills they need for the 21st century.
The Greater Jamaica Development Corporation, a group responsible for finding ways to enhance Jamaica, will receive $300,000 for a business co-working space, according to Miller.
“Investments by our elected leaders, like Council member Miller, are attracting private investment to Jamaica, development activity and jobs, which has increased the number of visitors to the area,” said Hope Knight, president and CEO of the Greater Jamaica Development Corporation.
Conlon Lifhe Towers, a NYCHA apartment complex, will receive $220,000, according to the District 27 councilman.
Queens General Hospital will receive $600,000 for an Intervention Radiology Suite, according to Miller.
“The new capabilities will enable surgeons at NYC Health + Hospitals/Queens to perform minimally invasive, targeted treatments using imaging guidance,” said Chris Roker, CEO of NYC Health + Hospitals/Queens.
“Interventional Radiology procedures offer less risk, less pain, and less trauma for the patient.”
Haggerty, Cambria, Montbellier and Wayanda Parks will receive $400,000 in fitness equipment, according to Miller.
“His dedication and commitment to the quality of life in our community is beyond reproach,” said Jacqueline Boyce, the executive director of the Southern Queens Park Association.
Wayanda Park and PS 136 will receive playground upgrades. PS 136 and IS 8 will receive auditorium upgrades. PS 268 will have its first ever playground. PS 268 and IS 59 will both have gym upgrades. IS 59 will also have cafeteria renovations. This adds up to $1.46 million, according to Miller.
There will be new technology, and tech upgrades for PS 811, PS 82, PS134, and Riverton Charter School totaling $510,000. Humanities and the Arts High School will receive $105,000 in laptop carts. The PA system at PS 37 will receive a $250,000 facelift. PS 268’s dance studio upgrade will cost $35,000. PS 268 will receive $200,000 in touch screen computers and a lab. Both IS 238 and PS 268 will receive security cameras and the intermediary school will also receive laptops, this totals $225,000.
“We are happily anticipating the installation of security cameras in strategic areas of the school,” said the principal of PS/IS 268 Lisa Grant Stewart. “A wooden spring-floor for our dance studio will allow our students to safely twirl and leap as they express their creativity. The gym upgrade will enhance our commitment to health and fitness. Additionally, the new computer lab will allow students opportunities to learn Coding, Robotics, and more,”
The most expensive single item on the budget was a $1 million fitness room expansion at Roy Wilkins Park, according to Miller.
“Much thanks and appreciation goes to Councilman I. Daneek Miller for his support and allocation of capital funds for the upkeep and beautification of the SQPA/Roy Wilkins Park,” Boyce said.
Reach reporter Naeisha Rose by e-mail at nrose
