The New York City Department of Design and Construction (DDC) celebrated the completion of significant sidewalk upgrades at the South Jamaica Houses during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, Dec. 18.
The event, held at 109th Avenue and 160th Street in Jamaica, was attended by DDC Commissioner Tom Foley, New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams and Senator Leroy Comrie.
This project is part of a larger, ongoing $8.8 million citywide initiative aimed at enhancing pedestrian infrastructure across Queens. The initiative focuses on installing sidewalks, adjacent curbs, and pedestrian ramps at multiple locations.
At the South Jamaica site, the work included 28,275 square feet of new sidewalk, 366 feet of steel face curb, 1,700 feet of concrete curb, and six ADA-compliant pedestrian ramps. These upgrades ensure improved accessibility for both residents and visitors.
The construction cost for the upgrades at the South Jamaica Houses totaled $548,000.
The South Jamaica Houses, established in 1940 as one of NYCHA’s first developments, are home to over 2,300 residents. Also known as the “40 Projects,” the complex has faced challenges over the years, including aging infrastructure. Recent improvements, such as the new ADA-compliant sidewalks and ramps, are part of ongoing efforts to enhance safety and accessibility for the community.
For more information on the DDC’s ongoing projects, visit nyc.gov/ddc.
