The New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) has released a request for proposals (RFP) to transform an 80-acre plot in College Point into a thriving mixed-use community.
The site, formerly the Flushing Airport, has remained unused since its decommissioning in 1984 and has since reverted to a wetland.
Opened in 1927, it was one of New York City’s earliest airports, primarily serving small aircraft until it faced operational and flooding challenges that led to its closure. The site has seen multiple redevelopment proposals over the years, though environmental, accessibility, and community concerns hindered each.
With the release of the RFP, NYCEDC aims to attract proposals that will leverage the site’s unique scale and location to benefit the surrounding neighborhood with new housing, job opportunities, and community spaces. The call for proposals is aligned with Mayor Eric Adams’ Executive Order 43, which directs city agencies to identify and utilize city-owned land for housing development to address New York City’s housing shortage. The deadline for proposals is March 20, 2025, with the selection of a developer anticipated in 2026.
“Today’s release of the RFP for the former Flushing Airport site is a direct result of Mayor Adams’ Executive Order 43 and our commitment to leaving no stone unturned in addressing New York City’s housing crisis,” said First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer. “This 80-acre, underutilized parcel in College Point has the potential to deliver much-needed housing, jobs, community spaces, and more. I look forward to seeing the innovative proposals the market can offer and how this site can help meet the needs of New Yorkers.”
NYCEDC President & CEO Andrew Kimball highlighted the historic nature of the project for both Queens and the city. “For 40 years, the 80-acre former Flushing Airport sat vacant. At long last, Mayor Adams and NYCEDC will put this massive public asset to work for the benefit of Queens residents and the entire city,” Kimball said. “New Yorkers want a safer, more affordable city, with open space and community amenities, and the development of neglected, underutilized sites like the former Flushing Airport in Queens will deliver just that.”
