The LIC Coalition’s vision for 44th Drive.
March 2, 2018 By Nathaly Pesantez
A rally protesting the city’s plans to bring a massive mixed-use project on 44th Drive will be taking place tomorrow at the very site eyed for development.
The community rally, with the tagline “This Land is Our Land”, will begin at midday at 44th Drive and Vernon Boulevard. A number of local civic groups are expected to appear, including the LIC Coalition, which organized the rally, the Hunters Point Civic Association, and the Justice for All Coalition.
Councilmember Jimmy Van Bramer (D- Sunnyside) and Assemblymember Cathy Nolan (D- Long Island City), who have voiced their opposition to the city’s plans, will also be attending, along with some members of Community Board 2.
Locals and elected leaders will demand that the city use “public land for public use”, like open space, schools, job training centers, and more. Currently, the city’s Economic Development Corporation has plans to bring 1,000 units (25 percent affordable) in two towers scaling over 500 feet on two publicly-owned parcels, along with thousands of square feet of commercial and industrial space.
The LIC Coalition said the rally will be a chance to demand that the city embark on true comprehensive planning for the area, and to listen to the community rather than the EDC.
An EDC spokesperson told the LIC Post that they’re proud of their project, and look forward to continued discussions with the community on how to make the project better.
