One of the fastest growing communities in the United States has a new leader of the neighborhood’s economic development organization. The board of directors of the Long Island City Partnership (LICP) on Aug. 18 announced the selection of Laura Rothrock as its new president.
The noted economic development strategist is already familiar with the territory having worked with LICP as a consultant, spearheading LIC Business Improvement District planning efforts since March 2021.
“I have advocated for New York City’s diverse neighborhoods and organizations for the majority of my career, so this opportunity comes as a full-circle moment,” Rothrock said. “I believe in the power of business improvement districts to advance opportunities across industry sectors and enliven neighborhoods for residents, visitors and workers. Long Island City is one of the most dynamic communities in the nation and I look forward to leveraging my experience to create a measurable impact for those we serve.”
Rothrock succeeds Elizabeth Lusskin, who stepped down in May to take an executive position at Empire State Development Corporation.
“The executive committee searched for someone who could grasp the complexities of our uniquely mixed-use community and lead with integrity and passion,” said Patricia Dunphy, board chair, LICP, and senior vice president, Rockrose. “In Laura, we’ve found that someone, and we are confident that Laura can guide Long Island City into its next chapter of growth.”
Rothrock will also serve as executive director of LIC BID, which is managed by LICP.
“Laura’s knowledge of the inner workings of business improvement districts — which spans her entire career — is unmatched,” said David Brause, board chair, LIC BID, and president, Brause Realty. “She has championed strategic, impactful work for BIDs of all sizes, including our own, and we look forward to leveraging her many strengths as she takes the helm at both the Partnership and the LIC BID.”
Rothrock joins LICP with almost 20 years of experience in economic development, with roles ranging from policy analysis and advocacy to business development and communications. She has particular experience working with the city’s business improvement districts; she launched her post-graduate career at the New York City Department of Small Business Services, eventually becoming the BID program’s executive director. In this role, she oversaw its $100 million contract management portfolio and served as Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s representative for nearly 70 BIDs across the five boroughs.
“Laura Rothrock is a smart and talented leader who has the experience and know-how to lead Long Island City Partnership and the LIC Business Improvement District in their efforts to develop Long Island City as a thriving industrial, commercial, residential and cultural mixed-use community,” Queens Borough President Donovan Richards said. “I congratulate Laura on her appointment and commend her for taking on this important job. I greatly look forward to working with her on helping Long Island City reach its fullest potential.”
LICP’s mission is to advocate for economic development that benefits the area’s industrial, commercial, tech, cultural, tourism and residential sectors. The goal is to attract new businesses to LIC, retain those already here, welcome new residents and visitors, and promote a vibrant and authentic mixed-use community.
“It is a pleasure to welcome Laura to Queens, where I know she will excel in her new role and join a cadre of dedicated business and nonprofit leaders working day in and day out to promote the vibrancy and dynamism of our great borough and help it soar to heights in the years ahead,” Queens Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Thomas J. Grech said.
Since 2013, Rothrock has worked as an executive at Nicholas & Lence Communications, a government affairs and communications firm, where she represented clients across transportation, real estate, infrastructure, economic development and tourism industries.
“Laura is well-known throughout the city for her commitment to tackling challenging problems faced by diverse business improvement districts,” Urban Upbound co-founder and CEO Bishop Mitchell Taylor said. “I am thrilled that she has been selected to lead Long Island City Partnership and the Long Island City BID. Urban Upbound looks forward to our continued alliance with both organizations and witnessing Laura’s expertise and leadership in action.”
