New York renters may see large rent increases or a change of heart with their current building. Some may have realized they are paying way too much for what they’re getting for their money. 

With their annual Subway Median Rent Map, RentHop provides a detailed report to help renters visualize where they can save by riding the train to affordability.

This year, 84% of Subway Stops saw increases in rent. This is lower than last year, but the median rent is currently at $4,400, 3.5% higher than the same time last year.

New developments and renovated units caused spikes in rent in the outer boroughs, so for renters concerned about their rent changing in the coming years, keep an eye out for construction and updates.

Tenants with lower rents aren’t moving, which is decreasing the current inventory for lower-priced units. This could cause problems in the future if these tenants move out and owners renovate and charge higher rents.

Where to Live if You Work Remotely or Hybrid in NYC

With remote and hybrid work becoming more popular, does it make sense to shell out for an apartment in the city’s heart with a quick commute that may only happen 1-2 times per week? Increasingly, renters look to their local neighborhood communities to find nightlife, meals and social happenings. If one’s community provides everything they need, why fork over large amounts of rent?

Below, CitySignal looked at some of the best stops to live off of for renters wanting to be in proximity to a certain Subway line.

Best NYC Subway Stops to Live Off the 1-2-3 Line

Apartments off the Cathedral Pkwy 1 train stop at 110th Street saw a 1.4% dip in rent. While the median rent is higher at $3,450, you’re farther down in Manhattan and are in proximity to several parks.

135th Street Station (2-3) in Harlem has a median rent of $2,567 and only saw 2.9% growth last year. This may mean you can snag a better deal in the area.

Best NYC Subway Stops to Live Off the 4-5-6 Line

Rent along the 6 train saw the most drastic rental decreases, with some rent near stations coming down over 6%. 

Brook Ave off the 6 train in Mott Haven in The Bronx. The current median rent is $2,369, with rent dropping 6.4% since last year. 

The Franklin Ave stop for the 2-3–4-5 had one of the lowest rent growths in the Crown Heights, Brooklyn area at 2.9%. Median rent sits at $2,910 but you have access to the S train which can connect you with other Brooklyn lines.

Best NYC Subway Stops to Live Off the N-Q-R-W Line

If your budget has room to grow over the coming years, check out Astoria Blvd ($2,750/6.8%) or Broadway ($2,650/6%) off the N/W. Rent is still proportionately low; however, the area is seeing major growth, which may impact your lease during re-signing. Make sure to read the terms of your lease carefully.

Best NYC Subway Stops to Live Off the B-D-F-M Line

While 155th Street (B-D) in Harlem saw 19.3% growth this year, the rent is still sitting at $2,600. This is a great stop to live off of if you’re a Yankee’s fan, you could even walk to a game!

F Ditmas Ave (F) is a Brooklyn stop in the quaint neighborhood of Kensington.

Newkirk Ave ($2,379/-1.9%) on the B–Q lines will send you straight into Lower Manhattan or give you the chance to transfer in Downtown Brooklyn to another line.

Best NYC Subway Stops to Live Off the A-C-E Line

The A stop at 190th Street in Washington Heights, just south of Inwood. With access to green space on the west side of Manhattan, current median rent sits at $2,300 with a -2% change since last year.

Utica Ave (A-C) in Bed-Stuy has a median rent of $2,600. There are many small local businesses that you can enjoy instead of traveling into the city.

Grand Ave-Newton in Queens ($2,200/0%) gives renters access to the E–M–R trains but is also two stops away from the 7 train. 

Best NYC Subway Stops to Live Off the J, G, L & 7 Trains

J train riders should look around Kosciuszko St. in the Bed-Stuy/Bushwick area, where the median rent is $2,850, a 1.1% drop since last year.

For G train lovers, check out the Myrtle-Willoughby Ave ($2,850/3.6%) or Ft. Hamilton Pkway ($2,838/-4.9%) stops in Brooklyn. Queens G stops have seen large rent growth, and apartments near those stops have an average rent of over $3,800!

The L train is a pricey line to live off of (thanks to going through Williamsburg), but the first stop to see a bit of rent relief is Dekalb Ave ($2,728/1%) in Bushwick. How trendy.

The 7 Train has quickly become a favorite of many renters, so look to 33rd St in Queens for a median rent of $2,750.

Best Neighborhoods to Live to Have Access To All Subway Lines

For access to multiple Subway lines, consider apartments in FiDi, SoHo/Chinatown, Downtown Brooklyn, or Hunters Point/Long Island City in Queens. These are not the friendliest for budget-conscious people, but if one needs to travel, access may be helpful.

The post Which NYC Subway Stop Is The Best to Live Off Of? appeared first on CitySignal.

What Is A 15-minute City?

What makes a city liveable? For many, it comes down to choice. We want to be surrounded by options without having to stray too far to reach any of them. Making choices accessible is the goal, but getting there is harder than just building a new megastore.

Developed in 2010, the 15-minute city has urban planners rethinking their technique. The basic premise is that all amenities should lie within a 15-minute walk or transit ride from home. This decentralized urban planning model ensures each local neighborhood meets the basic social functions for residents to live and thrive. 

This has yet to be tried in the Big Apple, but that’s about to change. Recently approved plans show New York City will begin constructing its own version in 2023. This has created a small stir amongst conspiracy theorists. 

The concept was first developed by Parisian urbanist and scientist Carlos Moreno. The premise is simple: everyday destinations should be close to home and easy to get to. By developing neighborhoods with schools, stores, and offices only a short walk, bike, or bus ride away, communities and individuals can experience a higher quality of life while saving time usually spent commuting to dedicate to what they actually want to be doing.

15-Minute Cities Around The World

Influenced by European cities like Paris, this method of city planning maximizes convenience and quality of life while minimizing pollution and traffic. The model echoes back to a hundred years ago when cities were established and expanded around a central area containing all needed amenities. In today’s version, we have the added advantage of being digitally connected. 

“A 15-minute city neighborhood offers convenience and quality of life, but not isolation,” describes the C40 website, “Physical and digital connectivity must be at the heart of any 15-minute city strategy, prioritizing equitable access to social and economic opportunities.”

Existing examples include Portland’s Complete Neighborhoods, Melbourne’s 20 Minute Neighborhoods, Bogota’s Barrios Vitales, and, of course, Paris’s original 15-Minute City. 

Some cities are going large in their transition. Portland specifically has committed to refashioning its land use so that 80% of residents will live in complete neighborhoods by 2035. As of now, less than half of Portlanders are in a complete neighborhood.

Calling Paris a 15-minute city feels tongue in cheek to some; Paris has always had greater accessibility to amenities than most cities. Many consider Paris a “5-minute city” with daily conveniences less than a five-minute walk for the average Parisian. One survey tallied 1,180 bakeries and 516 butcher shops within the 40 square miles of Paris’s 20 neighborhoods.  

Transitioning toward complete neighborhoods takes a lot of planning on behalf of local and government officials. While the idea was slow to take hold in 2010, the 2020 pandemic provided a major driving force for cities to take action. 

COVID-19 Impact on 15-Minute Cities

During the rise of Covid-19, an organization of globally networked mayors, called C40, united in action against climate change. This group of city leaders established the Global Mayors COVID-19 Recovery Task Force. Active participants of C40 include nearly 100 major cities: Madrid, Amsterdam, Berlin, Austin, Houston, New Orleans, Seattle, Los Angeles, and many others around the globe.

Amongst the actions these mayors committed to taking: Supporting essential workers, creating green jobs, providing fundamental public services, building with nature, and evolving to create 15-minute cities. 

“[We] committed to providing the swiftest and strongest possible rebound for their citizens and reaffirmed commitment to the principles of the Global Green New Deal,” says the C40 project website, “to protect our environment, strengthen economies and build a more equitable future – [we] reached out to other cities, youth, unions, business, and civil society to join in this effort.”

By reimagining streets and public spaces to best benefit local people of all abilities, backgrounds, and ages, the city offers itself in a more equitable and inclusive manner. Communities thrive when pedestrians “live locally” and are able to spend more time on foot, bike, or transit. 

15-minute Cities Reduction of Environmental Impact

Upsides to the 15-minute city were initially environmental. Reclaiming and reformatting space is a means to decrease car use, reducing carbon emissions. A decrease in traffic and car dependency equates to more free time for residents. Access to walking routes, parks and other outdoor conveniences mobilizes people to spend more time outdoors, boosting both physical and mental health.

“It puts people and the environment at the centre of urban planning,” said The Conversation, “Key elements are: the proximity of necessities; local participation and decision-making; community solidarity and connection; and green and sustainable urban living.”

A manifesto published in 2020 from Barcelona, backed by 300 architects and 160 academics, iterated four key elements to city organization: reorganization of mobility, renaturalization of the city, de-growth, and de-commodification of housing. So how would this translate in the hustle and bustle of New York City? 

Innovation QNS, NYC’s 15-Minute City

In 2022 the NYC Council approved a 15-minute city masterplan for the Queens’ Astoria neighborhood. The plan, called Innovation QNS, was brought forth by ODA Architecture and includes a number of major perks.

Built between 35th and 36th Avenues, the neighborhood will repurpose large surface parking lots, vacant spaces, and underutilized industrial and commercial buildings to shape an area that meets residents’ needs in a more concrete way.

“Innovation QNS will expand the adjacent Kaufman Arts District and build on Astoria’s rich cultural fabric including its existing cultural assets,” details the ODA Urban Plan website.

The 5-block plan will include over 2,800 units of mixed-income housing, of which 700 are permanently coded for affordable housing. Beyond that, 200,000 square feet will be dedicated to neighborhood retail and 250,000 square feet dedicated to creative industry and small business. Two acres have been set aside for intentional open space, community health and wellness facilities, arts and culture hubs, not to mention a multiplex cinema and grocery store.

Despite difficult negotiations, the project was finally approved in late 2022, with construction slated to begin in 2025. The $2 billion dollar development nearly came to a halt as the opposition called for even more affordable housing to be woven into the plan. Developers and housing officials finally agreed to double the affordable units to 45% of the project, equating to 1,400 units.

“This is exactly the kind of historic work we must do to tackle the housing shortage at the root of our affordable housing crisis,” said Democratic Mayor Eric Adams about regarding the negotiations.

Pressure continues to mount as officials fail to meet an urgently growing housing shortage crisis. Council members advocating on behalf of affordable housing were relieved the project has expanded to include more units.

“From Day 1, I have stood with my community in demanding deeper affordability from this development,” said Ms. Won of the Council’s progressive caucus, “There [were] more parking spots being offered than affordable units.”

 Supported by Ms. Ocasio-Cortez, council members continue to pressure developers to meet the needs of local communities first and foremost. 

But while the common thread of 15-minute cities carry the sentiment of community-first principles, that hasn’t stopped conspiracy theorists from demonizing the concept, creating major backlash. 

Conspiracy Theories of 15-Minute Cities

Starting in 2023, Mr. Moreno’s 15-minute city began to attract the wrong kind of attention. QAnon conspiracy theorists and climate change deniers quickly labeled 15-minute cities as “Prison camps” and “Climate change lockdowns,” stoking fears that proximity was a form of entrapment. 

Misinterpretations of the concept ran rampant, and conservatives vilified the idea as a government takeover, accusing supporters of advocating repression and government surveillance. The oppositional narrative is dystopic at best. Opponents paint pictures of a fictional future where gated communities keep residents locked in, and limited access to vehicles prohibits people from moving freely. 

Mr. Moreno was attacked both digitally and physically. Harassment and threats through email and online forums mounted, with some calling Moreno a criminal and a dictator. Soon the death threats began to pour in, terrifying both him and his family. 

“I wasn’t a researcher anymore, I was Pol Pot, Stalin, Hitler,” Mr. Moreno told the New York Times, “I am not a politician, I am not a candidate for anything — as a researcher, my duty is to explore and deepen my ideas with scientific methodology. It is totally unbelievable that we could receive a death threat just for working as scientists.”

So far, none of this doomsday foreshadowing has proven true. In fact, local communities have flourished under newly completed neighborhoods, with small businesses gaining more traction than before. Advocates of 15-minute cities are quick to dismiss any rumors, ensuring the concept is not driven by any sort of restrictive mobility or monitoring.  

As New York constructs its own version of a complete neighborhood, we will soon experience firsthand what the model has to offer. Coming from the midst of both an economic and housing crisis, this movement toward the 15-minute city may help New York emerge from the pandemic even stronger than before.

The post What Is A 15-Minute City and How It’s Coming to NYC appeared first on CitySignal.

Woodside is a neighborhood with range – some of the neighborhood is residential and offers a slice of quiet living, whereas the bustling Roosevelt Avenue offers urban appeal. Though the neighborhood is historically Irish, it now is home to a diverse population and boasts a multitude of restaurants, pubs, parks, and even its own all-inclusive St. Patrick’s Day parade. 

History of Woodside

The Puritanical Sackett family was one of the first families to inhabit Woodside after the Dutch displaced the indigenous Lenape peoples. The Sackett family passed down property in Woodside for generations before eventually selling their land to John A.F. Kelly, who would launch the first development initiatives for the neighborhood. Kelly was part owner of the Independent Press of Williamsburg and wrote “Letters from Woodside,” which spoke to the beauty of the neighborhood and the scenic views from his window. The name “Woodside” stuck when developer Benjamin Hitchcock purchased the property from Kelly, and between his growing developments and the inclusion of a stop on the Long Island Railroad, the population of Woodside doubled, and the once quaint area was well on its way to becoming a prominent NYC neighborhood.

Where to Shop in the Neighborhood

Woodside is home to many local businesses as well as prominent national chains. You can find food, flowers, and more all in one spot. 

J.O.Y. Cube of Signatures

For second-hand designer handbags, turn to J.O.Y. Cube of Signatures! This local business offers name-brand bags and has a layaway program for buyers. 

Roosevelt Flowers and Orchids

Roosevelt Flower Shop is the perfect place to stop and grab a beautiful bouquet. This shop offers bouquets for walk-in clients and flowers for larger events such as weddings, dinners, or corporate and school events. 

Tower Square Shopping Center

Two 1896 brick trolley barn towers, originally part of the New York & Queens County Railway Company depot, mark the entrance to Tower Square Shopping Center. Located at 5106 Northern Blvd, this is a great place to go if you need multiple things at once, as it includes Starbucks, Michael’s, GameStop, and more. 

Landmarks and Notable Places of the Neighborhood

Woodside has a rich history that is reflected in these notable landmarks. 

Doughboy Park

Though there aren’t any major parks in Woodside, Doughboy Park is a perfect spot to curl up and read a book on a sunny day. With a WWI and 9/11 memorial, this park offers green space and historical significance. 

Moore-Jackson Cemetery

Moore-Jackson Cemetery is one of the oldest cemeteries in NYC, with just 15 remaining headstones. The tombstone of Augustine Moore dates all the way back to 1769.

St. Sebastian’s Church

Though this building was converted into a church in the 1950s, this building began as a Loew’s Theater! The building was sold and repurposed, but if you attend a service at this church, you can still see the remnants of the building’s past. 

Where to Eat in the Neighborhood

 

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Woodside is known for having a confluence of cultures and restaurants. The neighborhood earned the nickname “Little Manila” due to the fact that it has the highest concentration of Filipino population in New York City.  Here are a few places to check out on your next visit:

SriPraPhai

This local Thai restaurant was founded by Sripraphai Tipmanee, who has served Thai food to the NYC community since the 1990s.

Donovan’s Pub

At 24 Roosevelt Avenue and dating back to 1966, this is a classic Irish pub that boasts one of the best burgers in the city. 

Phil-Am Food Mart

Phil–Am Food Mart dates back to 1976 and has offered the finest Filipino food products to the NYC area for over 40 years.

Jolibee Chicken

Located off Roosevelt Avenue, this Filipino-based chain is known for its burgers, fried chicken, and Filipino dishes. 

La Flor

Founded by Viko Ortega, this romantic corner restaurant offers elegance at a reasonable price. 

Bars of the Neighborhood

 

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Woodside has many places to fulfill your need for some smooth sipping. 

Solid State

Solid State is a bar born from a “passion for craft beer and pinball.” In addition to a full bar, they offer rotating draft beers and cans. They have a wide selection of vintage and contemporary pinball machines and tabletop games.

Sean OG Tavern

With a dance floor, cheap beer, and televisions, Sean OG Tavern is a great place to watch a sports game or relax with friends. 

Bee Cafe

The Bee Cafe in Woodside offers craft beer, wine, cocktails, and coffee! This is a great spot for drinks and some aesthetically pleasing Instagram shots. 

Where to Live in the Neighborhood

Real estate in Woodside is relatively affordable, and there are wonderful residential areas just a short walk from bustling Roosevelt Avenue. 

56-02 31st Avenue

This beautiful condo building boasts stainless steel appliances, private balconies, and floor-to-ceiling windows.

37-39 63rd Street

This family home occupies the entire first floor of the building and offers an eat-in kitchen, built-in bookshelves, and natural light.

59-34 41st Avenue 

Located just a block off Roosevelt Avenue, this detached family home has a private yard, basement, and one car garage. Priced at $935,000, this home is perfect for a growing family. 

30-47 Hobart Street

This co-op has an open floor plan, city views, and amenities like a private playground and library within the community of Boulevard Gardens. Priced at $335,000, this home offers a mix of affordability and luxury. 

47-50 59th Street

This rental building at 47-50 59th Street is rent-stabilized and offers updated appliances and private balconies. 

Traveling in the Neighborhood

The 7 train, multiple bus lines, and accessible bike lanes make Woodside a convenient neighborhood to travel in. 

Trains

The 7 train is the most convenient subway line to take when traveling to Woodside, although the neighborhood also has a stop on the LIRR at 61st and Roosevelt. 

Buses

The Q18, Q32, and Q53SBS all run through Woodside and make frequent stops. 

Rideshares and Bike Rentals

Woodside is a bike-friendly neighborhood, offering dozens of CitiBike stations stocked with electric and regular bikes. Most streets have bike lanes as well, making it safer to travel. 

Woodside, Queens, is a vibrant neighborhood home to an ethnically diverse population, a myriad of restaurants, and historical landmarks. The affordable real estate makes Woodside a great choice for a growing family or for young residents on a budget. If just visiting Woodside for the day, don’t miss the incredible Filipino food or the historic Irish pubs – and if you’re there on St. Patrick’s Day, don’t miss the all-inclusive LGBTQ+ friendly parade! 

The post Woodside Queens Neighborhood Guide: An Affordable and Diverse Oasis appeared first on CitySignal.

Welcome to Astoria, the neighborhood that has a lot going on! From museums to different cuisines, this neighborhood is full of greatness, just waiting to be explored. Many people in the city know that Astoria has amazing Greek food, but there are all kinds of things in this area that attract tourists and make living here a wonderful experience. There’s a lot to do and see in this neighborhood, and once you visit, you won’t want to leave.

History of Astoria

Astoria began its New York City life as most neighborhoods did: as farmland and large estates for the wealthy. When it was first colonized in the 1600s, the area was called Hallet’s Cove, and it was popular with wealthy New Yorkers. The area didn’t change much for nearly 150 years, remaining mostly rural with some lavish mansions here and there.

As Queens began to develop, they needed funding from rich sources. Hallet’s Cove was renamed Astoria in the early 1800s as a tribute to John Jacob Astor. Astor was the richest man in the US and invested heavily in New York City neighborhoods. The leaders of Astoria hoped he would invest there after the name change, but he never did.

The neighborhood would eventually receive money from another rich family in the 1800s, the Steinways, who built a factory in the neighborhood. This drew more factories and businesses to the area, which in turn attracted residents to the area seeking work. Astoria thrived throughout the late 1800s and early 1900s thanks to these factories and their workforces. The area was so popular that many early films were shot there.

Sadly, the success wouldn’t last. After WWII, many of the factories were shut down and abandoned. Many people still lived in the neighborhood, though, and they worked tirelessly to keep Astoria moving. In the 90s and early 2000s, the area experienced some gentrification, though it’s still one of the most diverse places in the city. Today Astoria is thriving, filled with row houses, restaurants, shops, and entertainment.

Shopping in Astoria

 

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Astoria has a ton of small shops with unique items. Some of the best stores in the neighborhood include:

Broadway Shopping Center

This compact mall has been around since 1958 and holds grocery stores, pharmacies, and more. This area is always bustling with shoppers looking for a good deal and a quick bite to eat. This place is a focal point in the neighborhood.

Astoria Bookstore

This bookstore is one of the finest in the city, with literature for all ages and a special section on books that have been banned around the nation. They always recommend books written by those in marginalized communities and have toys and games for those too young to read.

Bike Stop Astoria

As cycling becomes more popular in NYC, more and more bike shops pop up. This store is great because they do repairs as well as sell bikes and bike accessories. They offer free air for those who need to refill their tires.

Notable Places in Astoria

 

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Astoria is filled to the brim with museums, entertainment, and more. Some of the most unique places here are:

Kaufman Astoria Studios

This film studio has been around for a long time and has filmed projects like Titanic, Avatar, and The Wiz. The studio sometimes gives tours and has a museum, the Museum of the Moving Image, dedicated to the history and current practice of film.

Q.E.D

Though this venue might seem out of place, many famous comedians and authors have graced this stage. Welcoming bigger talent and newcomers, this venue is intimate and fun. Shows here are always a blast.

The Noguchi Museum

This museum and sculpture garden features the works of Isamu Noguchi, a legendary sculptor of the 20th century. The museum has been around since 1984, opening just four years before the sculptor’s death.

Where to Eat in Astoria

 

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Astoria has a ton of delicious and diverse restaurants that are frequented by locals and visitors alike. Some of the best are:

Amylos Taverna ($$$)

Astoria is known for its Greek cuisine, and Amylos Taverna is the best of the best. This restaurant serves a fun brunch and delicious dinners, making it great for a fun time out with friends or a classy date night.

Trestle ($$)

This American restaurant is hearty and delicious with an industrious vibe. Famous for their burgers, this unstuffy restaurant is a place where folks can let their hair down and have some fun. They also serve a great brunch.

Tacuba Cantina Mexicana ($$)

This Mexican restaurant has been featured in the New York Times, Eater, and TimeOut New York for its delicious foods and creative cocktails. They have heated outdoor seating and a fun atmosphere indoors, making this a great place to eat and relax.

District Saigon ($$)

This Vietnamese restaurant is run by head chef Lam, who started washing dishes in the US and moved up the ranks to make several restaurants a huge success. This place focuses on hot family meals that bring people together.

Koliba ($$)

This Czech restaurant is family run, and serves delicious Slavic food and drinks. Everything here is made with love and fresh ingredients, making these hearty meals even more meaningful. This establishment is one of a kind.

Bars of Astoria

 

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Astoria isn’t a rowdy place, but they have some fun bars that make for incredible nightlife. Some of the best include:

Mosaic ($$)

This cocktail bar is known for its creative drinks and delicious charcuterie. Whether you come during the day when the place is bright or in the evening when it’s smoky and sexy, you will always have a great time here.

Vintage ($$)

This wine bar is intimate and romantic, with special nights for rare wines and live music. Wine served here comes from all over the world, and they even have snacks to nibble while you enjoy your drink.

Albatross ($)

This gay bar is famous in the neighborhood and has indoor and outdoor seating, both of which have a TV. All of their cocktails are seasonal, making this place fun to visit every single season of the year.

Where to Live in Astoria

Astoria is an extremely popular neighborhood, and the population has been steadily growing for years. Some of the best places to live here include:

The Candle Factory

This condo was retrofitted from an old candle factory, and is now one of the most coveted buildings in the neighborhood. Many units here have private outdoor space, and residents have access to parking and a fitness center.

26-01 24th Avenue

This rental building has been renovated from a historic row house built in 1931. The units here are a bit smaller, making this place better for college students and young professionals. Homes come with beautiful stainless steel appliances.

North Queensview Houses

This seven building co-op was built in 1958 and has renovated its units to keep up with modern living standards. One of the newest additions is the virtual doorman added to these homes, allowing residents to see who enters the buildings.

25-66 33rd Street

Another rental building retrofitted from a historic rowhouse, these units range from small to large, making this place perfect for both single folks and families. The kitchens are brand new, as are the hardwood floors and window moldings.

Astoria Proper

This new condo has ten units in six stories, most of which come with a private outdoor space. This building also has a fitness center, parking garage, and rooftop deck, making this a great place for young professionals.

Traveling in Astoria

Astoria is close to Manhattan, so it’s pretty easy to get to and travel in. The best ways to get around this large neighborhood include:

Trains

The NYC subway system services Astoria via the E, M, N, R, and W trains.

Buses

The NYC bus system services Astoria via the M60, Q18, Q19, Q66, Q69, Q101, Q102, Q103, and Q104.

Bike Rental and Rideshares

Astoria is a huge neighborhood. Traversing it on foot is easy and possible, but it can take a while to get where you’re going. For this reason, biking and rideshares are very popular. Traffic is mostly light in Astoria, save for the section near the Queensboro Bridge. Biking is easy thanks to the miles of bike lanes in the neighborhood, and it’s convenient as Astoria is one of the only neighborhoods in Queens with access to Citi Bike docking stations.

Astoria is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in the city, and that diversity shines in the food, drinks, and entertainment in the area. This enormous neighborhood has a little bit of everything, and it’s nearly impossible to have a bad time here. The old factories and row houses have founded new uses, transforming the neighborhood while celebrating what built it in the first place. Astoria is a powerhouse of a neighborhood. It’s easy to see why people keep moving here. To visit Astoria is to visit a truly unique part of the city, so hop on the N train and see what all the fuss is about.

The post Astoria, Queens Neighborhood Guide: An Area With a Little Bit of Everything appeared first on CitySignal.

Welcome to Ridgewood, the artsy Queen’s neighborhood with a lot to offer! Many think of Ridgewood as an extension of its southern neighbor, Bushwick. However, while the area shares several qualities with its Brooklyn counterpart, Ridgewood has an identity all its own. Full of historic buildings, artistic venues, and a ton of great restaurants, this neighborhood is full of wonders that are just waiting to be explored.

History of Ridgewood

Ridgewood began its New York City life as one of the three original towns of Queens. Then called Newtown, the area was mostly farmland and avoided much adversity save for the occasional argument with Bushwick over village borders. This would be the regular state of affairs until the mid-1800s when public transportation made it easier for residents to settle further into Brooklyn and Queens.

Soon, farms were replaced with row houses and businesses, and the population only grew as technology improved in the late 1800s. Jobs also became abundant in the area as breweries and factories began to pop up, making the neighborhood quite appealing to the working class. With so many jobs to go around, development exploded in the area, with most of the row houses still standing today being built in the early 1900s.

Ridgewood never had a major scandal or turmoil, aside from a riot between German, Slovic, and Jewish immigrants during WWII. The neighborhood was always prosperous and a reasonably safe area to live in. They received their own zip code in the 1980s and even had some of their streets landmarked. Today the area is an excellent place for families and young professionals.

Landmarks and Notable Sites of Ridgewood

Ridgewood has some great landmarks and entertainment venues. These places make the area fun and unique. Some of the best known ones include:

The Onderdonk House

One of the oldest homes in the city, the Onderdonk House is the last remaining farmhouse of Ridgewood. Built in 1709, this building is now a museum and was granted landmark status in 1978. The house is visited by thousands of visitors each year.

Linden Hill Cemetery

This historic cemetery has been around since 1842, and has been in continuous use ever since. The Methodist Church runs this cemetery, but anyone can be buried here. This is a popular burial site for those of Germanic, Slovic, and Italian heritage who can trace their ancestry back to the neighborhood.

TV Eye

This performance venue is one of the best in Queens, hosting a ton of live music and performance art events every year. Open for private events as well, this establishment is a major party hub for the people of Ridgewood, and one of the things that makes this area special.

Shopping in Ridgewood

 

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Ridgewood has several shops that add a special charm to the neighborhood. Some of the best stores in the area include:

Topos Bookstore Cafe

This bookstore and cafe has an eccentric atmosphere, with many older and rare books available to read in a cozy space. This establishment buys used books and sells them to others at very affordable prices, casting a wide net of literature upon the neighborhood.

Lichen

This home goods store sells subtle, yet elegant furnishings. Handcrafted and sturdy, these items will make any home look amazing without trying too hard. The store also allows pieces of furniture to be rented with the potential of being purchased.

Scorpion Records

This record store has a punk vibe to it, which is exactly what you want in a store with classic punk, hip-hop, rock, and metal albums. This establishment buys used records and has a ton of rare finds that music fans will go crazy for.

Where to Eat in Ridgewood

 

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Ridgewood has a ton of places to eat, from upscale establishments to family restaurants. Some of the best eateries include:

Rolo’s ($$)

This Queens staple has been around for years, and is one of the borough’s best restaurants. Their famous holiday menus are always a treat, and their regular dinner menu serves favorites like rigatoni, wood-fired half chicken, and chicken & waffles.

While in Kathmandu ($)

This Nepalese restaurant is one of the best in the city, and its delicious cuisine is available for an extremely affordable price. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with a special fusion menu that combines signature Nepal recipes with other famous cuisines from around the world.

Pita Cafe and Grill ($$)

This Mediterranean restaurant is cozy and stylish, with delicious food that will warm your soul. Specializing in Turkish meals, this establishment serves favorites like red lentil soup, feta and spinach pita, and a myriad of gyro and kebab.

Antica Trattoria ($$)

This Italian restaurant specializes in pizza, which they make inside a wood-burning oven. This establishment also serves delicious sandwiches and pasta, making them versatile and delectable.

Cream Ridgewood ($$)

This Latin American restaurant is fun and colorful, serving favorites like empanadas, cajun shrimp tacos, and shrimp rasta pasta. The establishment combines fun and delicious food to create an unforgettable experience.

Bars of Ridgewood

 

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Ridgewood has a great bar scene, with plenty of places that offer delicious drinks and fun events. Some of the best bars in the neighborhood include:

Nowadays ($$)

This fun establishment is casual and classy, with a ton of live music events and TVs. They have special nights for sporting events, and an extensive menu of beer, cocktails, and wine. This place is great for a night out with friends.

Aunt Ginny’s ($$)

This bar evokes an old-fashioned spirit and mixes with modern cocktails and sensibilities. Paying homage to the great comedies of the 80s and 90s, this bar encourages people to go wild and have a great time.

Milo’s Yard ($)

This bar is known for its backyard space and its pinball machines. This place isn’t quite a dive bar, but it does encourage folks to let loose like no one is watching. The drinks are cheap, but you can’t put a price on the fun you have here.

Where to Live in Ridgewood

Ridgewood is a great place for families and young professionals to settle down. Some of the best places in the neighborhood to live are:

1671 Summerfield Street

This newer condo was built in 2021, and comes with a fitness center, storage, and a laundry room in the building. These modern marvels are outfitted with beautiful windows, hardwood flooring, and stainless steel appliances.

390 Seneca Avenue

This mixed-use building is from the 1930s, and has several units for rent inside. These apartments are large and bright, with hardwood flooring and beautiful appliances. These homes are good for small families and young professionals.

17-11 Hancock Street

This beautiful condo was originally built in 1931, but has gotten a major renovation in 2022. Many of these new units come with private outdoor space, and every unit has stainless steel appliances. These bathrooms are also some of the finest in the neighborhood.

62-86 60th Place

A perfect example of a renovated historic brownstone, this beautiful building was originally built in 1920. Rooms here are huge and come with in-unit washers and dryers, in-unit dishwashers, and several bedrooms, making this place perfect for families.

63-15 Forest Avenue

This condo was built in 2007, and has many homes that are perfect for young professionals. Most units have a private outdoor space, and parking is available for all residents. The condo building isn’t too big, making this place perfect for those who don’t like having a lot of neighbors.

Traveling in Ridgewood

Ridgewood is a bit out of the way, but there are ways to get to the neighborhood. Some of the best ways to travel in Ridgewood include:

Trains

The New York City subway services Ridgewood via the L and the M lines.

Buses

The New York City bus system services Ridgewood via the B13, B20, B38, B57, Q38, Q39, Q54, Q55, Q58, and Q67, among others.

Ride Shares and Bike Rentals

Traffic in this neighborhood is super light, so driving and rideshares are popular. The area is pretty big, so taking a car can make traveling much more accessible. Similarly, biking is also popular in the neighborhood, especially since this is one of the only neighborhoods in Queens with Citi Bike docking stations. This neighborhood is walkable, but its size can make traveling by foot pretty tedious. It’s better to bike or drive.

Many people consider Ridgewood part of Bushwick. It’s artistic, has fun bars, and even resembles its Brooklyn neighbor. However, Ridgewood has a culture all its own, being a haven for the working middle classes of the city. It’s a bit out of the way, but that only makes the establishments here that much more special. Ridgewood is a neighborhood that deserves as much recognition as the more well-known neighborhoods of Brooklyn and Queens. It’s a fantastic place with ample opportunities for fun and excitement. Locals and visitors alike will enjoy Ridgewood. They just need to actually make an effort to visit. 

The post Ridgewood, Queens Neighborhood Guide: The Hidden Gem of Queens appeared first on CitySignal.

Staten Island 

#1. The Staten Island Boat Graveyard

The Arthur Kill waterway hides a ghastly secret beneath its waters, and some of those secrets are still worth discovering for visitors to Staten Island’s Tugboat Graveyard. Twisted wood planks and metal spires reach from the waves as the last remnants of more than 200 ships that were “put to rest” here since the 1930s. Part of the ships have sunken, decomposed or even been stripped for their metals and sold, leaving this eerie field of wreckages and a sordid reminder of the environmental results of industry. This “accidental museum” is a bit of a trek though, and as it’s a 13-mile bus ride from the Staten Island Ferry, these murky depths are reserved for only the most determined of dark tourists. 

#2. Staten Island Museum

While the scenic Staten Island Ferry gets plenty of well-deserved love, The Staten Island Museum at Snug Harbor, founded in 1881, is another icon of the Forgotten Borough that shouldn’t be missed. The museum is dedicated to the heritage of Staten Island and features paintings by Marc Changal, work from Asia, Africa, Indigenous America and Europe, as well as over 500,000 insects, if that’s your thing. Welcoming over 200,000 people each year, this former dormitory for retired seamen has been converted into one of the premiere natural history, art and cultural museums in the city. It’s well-worth the bargain as well, tickets start at $2 for Children 2 to 12 up to $8 for adults, (Children under 2 get in free).

#3. Fort Wadsworth

One of the oldest military installations in the nation, tracing its initial foundation back to 1779, midway through the American Revolution. Originally inhabited by the British, it was one of the forts fortified by U.S. forces following the war along with others like Fort Lafayette in Brooklyn, Fort Jay on Governors Island and Fort Gibson on Ellis Island; otherwise known as the Second American System of coastal defense. The Fort also served as a base of operations for soldiers during the Spanish American War, World War I and World war II before being turned into a national park in 1994 by the US Navy. Beyond the fort itself, the park is available for camping, fishing, and hiking in addition to horseback riding, boating and access to sporting facilities. 

Manhattan Destinations

#1. The Cloisters

The Met Cloisters, found in upper Manhattan and situated in Lenapehoking, homeland of the Lenape diaspora, is a medieval-style building that is just under 90 years old. Designed by Charles Collen and funded by none other than John D Rockefeller, the building was built atop and around the original museum built there by George Grey Barnard, a sculpture artist trained in France. The location is built to be reminiscent of medieval European monasteries, churches, castles and other structures into a coherent museum of architecture, horticulture and art. Tapestries, paintings, sculptures, artifacts and several flower gardens make this location an eclectic and exciting visit, with something for everyone just a short walk from the 1 or the A. In addition to their permanent installation, the museum is host to ongoing and rotating exhibits, such as the current Hear Me Now: The Black Potters of Old Edgefield, South Carolina or the upcoming exhibition on Afro-Hispanic Painter Juan de Pareja. Tickets are pay-what-you-want for NY residents and students from New Jersey, and Connecticut as well.

#2. Little Island 

After opening in May 2021, Little Island is a new public park and part of Hudson River Park, built atop an artificial “island” more than two square acres large. Offering an abundance of free programming, including educational, natural, artistic, and community projects, the park saw over 1 million visitors in its opening year, usually filling to capacity before noon, so if you plan a visit, make sure you have a timed-ticket if you plan on visiting later in the day. With two performance venues featuring work by one of their multiple artists-in-residence (such as the fantastic playwright Tina Landau and actor Michael McElroy), and over 350 species of plants, the park is more than worth a visit for nature and entertainment lovers alike. Weather permitting, the park, free to the public, is open 365 days a year from 6am and closes at a different time depending on time of season; so plan your visit accordingly! 

#3. The High Line

A public park located on the West Side of Manhattan, the High Line is also a nonprofit organization that offers tours, art performances, and food along with a one-of-a-kind NYC tourism experience. Built on an elevated rail line and sanctioned as a park in 2006 by Mayor Bloomberg and the City council, the high line is an excellent example of urban refurbishment, taking what had been an eyesore of a defunct rail line and turning it into a cultural center and metropolitan getaway. Take a stroll from Gansevoort Street to 34th street, a 1.45-mile stretch that allows one to view 10th and 12th avenue from a wheelchair-accessible platform above the city. There’s no shortage of activities near and on the high line, including amateur trapeze flying, swimming at the Chelsea pier, and visiting the Whitney Museum of Art.

Year-Round Fun in The Bronx

#1. New York Botanical Garden

An “Advocate for the plant world”, the New York Botanical garden was established in 1891 and takes up more than 250 acres of space, making it the largest in any city in the U.S. A National Historic Landmark, the garden features over 30,000 types of trees and hosts 100 Ph. D-level scientists currently engaged in 250 international collaborations in 49 countries! Committed to preserving and protecting New York and the world’s biodiversity, NYBG is an excellent chance to see a wide diversity of plants and flowers while also learning about the rich history and wide importance of horticulture. Activities include the family-friendly Edible Academy, The Wetland Train and the dining at Hudson Garden Grill.  Tickets for New York City residents start at $7 for students and seniors, while non-member adults will pay $15. Children and members get in free.

#2. Edgar Allan Poe Cottage

Quoth The Raven, the poet and author Edgar Allen Poe, famous for works such as The Tell-Tale Heart, Lenore and The Fall of the House of Usher, lived in The Bronx from 1846 to 1849, when he died under mysterious circumstances. While he wrote “The Raven” at a previous home in Manhattan, Poe, a Boston native, wrote several of his most famous poems while at this location, including The Bells, Annabel Lee and his short story, The Cask of Amontillado. The Poe Cottage is now a historic landmark and is on the National Register of Historic places, owned by NYC and run as a museum, open Friday through Sunday from 9am to 12pm and then from 1pm to 5pm. Just be wary of still-beating hearts beneath the floorboards! 

#3. The Bronx Zoo

Taking up more than 265 acres of space, the Bronx Zoo offers unparalleled opportunities to get up and close with wildlife in New York City, not counting pigeons of course. Opening in 1899, the Bronx Zoo houses over 4000 animals representing more than 650 species. Highlights include The Congo Gorilla Forest, Tiger Mountain, and the Aquatic Bird House & Sea-Bird Aviary. They even offer a seasonal Butterfly Garden experience, from April through October, where one can interact with the butterflies directly and get to know other animals in their biome. Date-Specific tickets are required, and parking can fill to capacity on peak attendance days so an alternate mode of travel is suggested during especially busy periods such as holidays.

Queens Destinations

#1. MoMA PS1

MoMa PS1 (or the Museum of Modern Art) was founded by Alanna Heiss, who now serves as curator, in 1976, and has been a powerhouse of contemporary art and culture in Queens ever since. MoMA PS1 is an artist-centered, community driven organization that hosts a wide variety of programming, such as the ongoing After The Fire mural project, or the upcoming dance / performance art project by London’s Onyeka Igwe, A Repertoire of Protest (No Dance, No Palaver). Best of all, admission is free to all New Yorkers; so be sure to check out the campus from time to time to see some of their ever-changing selection of exhibits and events. 

#2. Astoria Park

Featuring the oldest and largest pool in the city, Astoria park sits on the edge of the East River and takes up nearly 60 acres of land. Originally called William J. Gaynor park after the mayor at the time, and then East River Park, the Board of Alderman officially named the park “Astoria” in 1913. Located beneath the Robert F. Kennedy and Hell Gate Bridges in Queens, the park also features over a dozen tennis courts, several playgrounds, and a skatepark. The pool is, however seasonal, it’s open only whenever the New York City public school season is not in session, so mostly over the summer, although you can check the website for more specific dates yearly.  Also, note you’ll need to bring a combination lock for a locker, and food, glass bottles, electronic devices, and newspapers aren’t allowed in the pool; so you’ll need to leave those at home. 

#3. Louis Armstrong House Museum

After the passing of her husband, famed jazz musician and civil-rights legend Louis Armstrong, the late Lucille Armstrong stayed at their home on 107th Street in Corona, Queens working to preserve his legacy. This effort has resulted in The Louis Armstrong House Museum (LAHM), a National and New York Historic Landmark that holds exclusive archival material, private recordings, and other documentation on the life of the musician, along with live music performances and other programming. The house is open Thursday through Saturday only and has limited hours, so it’s important to schedule ahead to make sure to make the most of your experience, but once there be sure to take part in one of the daily guided tours that walk you through this piece of music history, “frozen in time”. 

Brooklyn Locations To Visit

#1. Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM)

Located in North Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Academy of Music has been a home for performance and art for over 150 years. With programming in theatre, dance, music, film and opera, there’s always something to see or do on the beautiful campus. A quick glance at their extensive calendar of events you’ll see how live installations are often placed alongside current films and live performances, making a day-long visit to BAM well worth the trip. With three separate venues, The Peter Jay Sharp Building, BAM Fisher and BAM Strong, there’s always plenty to see, and membership offers access to even more advantages and art. The work at BAM is often critically acclaimed and world-renowned, cementing it as an underground incubator of important new work and a showroom for the avant-garde. 

#2. Brooklyn Bridge Park

While the Brooklyn Bridge is an obvious choice for tourism when visiting New York City, the crowds and traffic constantly crossing the structure may make viewing it difficult from the walkway. For a different vantage point, another choice may be the Brooklyn Bridge Park which offers a stellar view of the bridge, and is a bit of an open secret amongst locals for its out-of-the way vistas, expansive piers filled with activities and programming, as well as a waterfront park. From the labyrinth on Pier 3, to the famous outdoor Jane’s Carousel, to the glamorous Empire Stores, the park has year-long activities perfect for anyone looking for a quiet stroll, a brisk kayak trip, or a casual throwdown at the ping-pong tables.

#3. Coney Island

The last stop at the bottom of the Q Train will take you to one of the most historic and iconic summer getaways in the city. From the boardwalk and amusement park rides, to the long hot beach, Coney Island is synonymous with New York Summer fun, and has been a staple in the city since 1895 when the first enclosed amusement park opened in the area. Some track the invention of the Roller Coaster back to 1884 Coney Island and LaMarcus Adna Thompson, where he built his gravity-based “Switchback railway” which would become the foundation for our modern rides. Some of Coney Island’s current featured attractions include the Coney Island Circus Sideshow, Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park and the New York Aquarium. Coney Island is also a famous filming location in New York City, with movies such as The Wiz, The Warriors and Requiem for a Dream filming on or near the beach.

The post 15 Cheap and Underrated Ideas For Spring Break in NYC appeared first on CitySignal.

Take a wander down Emerald Street or any of the other gems in the area –Ruby, Amber, or Sapphire Street – and eventually, you’ll encounter it. Deep and wide, the waters are not clean. Some keep kayaks or rafts parked nearby to help cross if needed, while others just avoid it entirely. It’s called The Hole.

The Hole: Located Between Brooklyn and Queens

 A strange fate sits at the end of the sparkly titled Jewel Streets, where normal pavement breaks down toward a deep, dark anomaly. The Hole is an enormous sinkhole that has come to dominate and shape the culture and livelihood of the small five-block neighborhood sitting on the Brooklyn Queens crossover. Aptly called “the closest thing New York has to a border town,” few willingly move to this area, and most who live there cannot afford to move out.  

Don’t Forget Your Kayak

Residents have learned to adopt a lifestyle most never dream of. Frequent flooding of the area keeps the ambiance murky and mucky. The five-block radius of The Hole sits 30 feet below average land grade, and without any drainage system to run into, rainfall and other groundwater trickle and collect into the streets of The Hole, filling a pit with no drainage point. Bad rains can cause septic tanks in the area to join the overflow, creating a toxic and putrid waste zone.

Residents have used kayaks and rafts to navigate the expansive pools taking up their neighborhood blocks. Constantly flooded and increasingly run-down from lack of access, this Wild West scenario has been called a “lost” neighborhood. But was it always that way?

Spring Creek Pond to Sinkhole

The area forming The Hole was first officially owned by Jonathan Forbell and the Krats family, when a small pond occupied the northern part of the property connecting through stream Spring Creek of the south. The water in the pools comes from a mixture of rain and groundwater. The water table is situated so close to the surface that water is unable to drain, causing streets to remain flooded. While flooding was historically always an issue for this area, it became significantly worse once the city paved all the streets, restricting water drainage even further. 

The homes of this neighborhood are not connected to New York City’s sewage system, mainly because the water table is too close to the ground level for gravity to allow the pipes to work properly. Residents living around The Hole use septic tanks and cesspools for their waste management, often to bad ends. This low-income neighborhood has little city support and many tanks have ruptured or leaked over the years, seeping into the ground below.  

For decades there has been talk of change. Proposals for sewer systems and lifting streets have been addressed various times over the years, with no success. Eventually, the neighborhood fell further into disrepair than few could fathom.

The Federation of Black Cowboys 

As if this Wild West tale isn’t wild enough, The Hole is also stomping grounds for both cowboys and horses. The Federation of Black Cowboys was formed in 1994 to “create greater understanding of African American culture and heritage” and does so through teaching and advocacy centered on Black involvement in American horse riding and ranching. The group formerly held residence in The Hole, where their horses were stabled in the area. Black Cowboys of New York City had a heyday in the 1980s, back when New York was home to the Black World Championship Rodeo, where cowboys gather to buck horses and catch steers. 

“We still exist, we still go to schools and educate the youth on the legacy,” said Kesha Morse, the federation president, who added that the organization still keeps four horses stabled privately in Queens. “The mission was not to just have horses and ride horses; it was to educate.”

The group received scrutiny around 2013 when several horses died at a stable managed by the organization. The Federation had been in charge of and kept horses at Cedar Lane Stables in Howard Beach since 1998 but nearly lost access after 5 horses died in a relatively short period of time. It was later determined many of the deaths were caused by private owner negligence and were not to the fault of the federation. They have since gone back to normal operations. From sinkhole to mob graveyard to horses, what doesn’t exist here?

Chronicles of the Lost Neighborhood

There is no doubt just as much lore as there is reality. The isolation of The Hole gives good cover for those wanting to perform illegal activities or evade the law.

“There was a lot of wars down here. There a lot of places to hide. People did what they wanted to do,” said local Mr. Earle during an interview with the New York Times.

By sitting in between two police jurisdictions- the 106th Precinct in Queens and the 75th Precinct in Brooklyn- but with no passable through streets, the area is complicated for law enforcement to patrol or protect, and much goes unnoticed.

“Most people are here because they were born here or they can’t afford to live anywhere else,” said Ms. Watt, president of Jewel Streets Civic Association said. “I’d love to move, but I can’t afford to, so for now, I’m stuck in The Hole.”

The Bodies Began to Appear

Eventually, the pool started to shed its own secrets. Starting in the early 1980s, bodies began to emerge. Some were found by playing children, others by their scent, victims of mob crimes were slowly uncovered through The Hole.

A number of victims related to the crimes of mob boss John Gotti were discovered in the area. In 1981 children discovered a severed hand, eventually linked to the Bonnano crime family and Alphonse “Sonny Red” Indeilicato. Another two bodies were later found through an anonymous tipoff- this time belonging to Philip “Philly Lucky” Giaccone and Dominick “Big Trin” Trinchera.

One reason The Hole remains a high crime point is due to its jurisdiction and lack of access. Waterlogged roadways give no real pass-through for residents or police, making the area difficult to patrol and easy to hide in. These are not the only bodies to have been found, leaving many residents to feel their neighborhood is not safe. Luckily, nowadays, there are cowboys nearby to call upon.

Back in 2011, The Hole reached silver screen fame through two local filmmakers, Courtney Fathom Sell and Billy Feldman, who created a short 9-minute documentary called The Hole. Winning best documentary at the Red Hook International Film Festival, the video can be streamed online and gives voice to this strange and mythical land.

THE HOLE from Billy Feldman on Vimeo.

The Jewel Street Project

Yet with all the strife here, there are people who believe good can come of The Hole. A proposed 2024 building project estimated at around $37 million would raise the neighborhood grade, repave a number of roads and install a new storm drainage system that would reconnect the neighborhood to the city’s main sewer network.

“We’re all trying to work together to come up with a master plan for this whole neighborhood, and that’s been very complicated and very expensive,” Vincent Sapienza, the chief operations officer at the Department of Environmental Protection, told the Gothamist, “Maybe if we can try to peel off a block here and a block there and get those solved in a shorter period of time, that’s the path forward.” 

The plan would include not only the flooded area but also just south, where drainage remains a major issue. 

“Engineers are currently advancing other long-term solutions – exploring both grey and green infrastructure options – which would be less costly and disruptive to the community,” said Edward Timbers, spokesperson for DEP, “We hope to have more information to share with the community in the coming months.” 

Contaminated soil has remained an issue and previously led to blocks against real estate and land development in the area. “Cobblestone Estates,” a major project that would have been promising for the area, was interrupted mid-development when property developers failed to secure proper permitting for handling contaminated soil.

Residents Call For Help

Many hope The Hole is facing a brighter future, but most remain skeptical. After years of water pumps, moats, and standstill wastewater, the humidity and air quality remain a constant health issue. 

While the surfacing of bodies is now a thing of the past, The Hole continues to be a dumping ground for other unwanted objects; residents often find dumped cars, trucks, and garbage.

Groups of residents have organized in protest, one offshoot sends letters to city agencies calling for attention to neighborhood issues, including heightened enforcement of illegal dumping. Other residents hope the vacant land nearby will be turned into a swamp or pond to trap stormwater, helping to offset the voracious flooding. And a few in a nearby neighborhood of Queens have dreams that the city will buy them out of their homes, freeing them from a flooded prison.

“I’m fed up,” said a resident named Rodriguez, “So why not buy me out? I’ll leave.”

The post The Hole, NYC: New York’s Soggiest Neighborhood? appeared first on CitySignal.

We’ve rounded up a list of the most affordable neighborhoods for one-bedroom apartments in NYC as of February 2023 to get you started. Without further ado, here are the options in the 5 boroughs of NYC.

Cheapest Places To Live NYC

Bay Ridge, Brooklyn

Average 1br rent: $2,000

The neighborhood of Bay Ridge in Brooklyn is a historic enclave that offers its residents a quiet and comfortable place to call home. 

And best of all, it is one of the cheapest places to live in NYC. Originally settled by Dutch farmers, the area has seen a great deal of redevelopment in recent years, with new housing and businesses popping up along its tree-lined streets. 

There’s something for everyone in Bay Ridge, from trendy cafes and restaurants to mom-and-pop shops and art galleries. 

The people who live here are warm and welcoming, making it easy to feel at home in this vibrant community with great schools and convenient commutes – great for families!

Sunnyside, Queens

Average 1 br rent: $2,500

Sunnyside Queens is a lively and vibrant neighborhood located in the borough of Queens, New York. It is known for its close-knit community and its diverse population. 

The area is home to many cultures. The streets are alive with activity throughout the day, as people make it to their destinations. Sunnyside has become known for its local restaurants and cafes that cater to all kinds of tastes. 

After dark, Sunnyside transforms into a bustling social scene where one can find bars and pubs that offer live music entertainment or karaoke nights. 

Sunnyside also offers a variety of outdoor activities such as biking trails and parks that allow residents to get out and enjoy nature from within the city limits. 

There’s never a dull moment in Sunnyside, making it one of the best affordable neighborhoods in NYC. 

Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn

Average 1br rent: $2,683

Bed-Stuy, also sometimes referred to as Bedford–Stuyvesant is an iconic, vibrant neighborhood in NYC renowned for its cultural diversity and rich history. 

It’s a melting pot of people from all walks of life, from young families to senior citizens, from those born and raised in the area to newcomers. 

With its grand brownstones, tree-lined blocks, and diverse population, Bed-Stuy is a neighborhood like no other. 

From trendy cafes and chic boutiques to local hot spots, Bed-Stuy has an abundance of great places to explore. 

Whether you’re looking for the best spot to grab a bite or just enjoying a stroll around the block, you will be sure to find something special when exploring Bed-Stuy.

Kew Gardens

Average 1br rent: $1,800

Kew Gardens can be found in Central Queens, about a 30-minute subway ride away from Midtown Manhattan. The neighborhood has been around since 1868 and was one of seven planned garden communities built in the 19th century to 1950. 

There are a lot of single-family, million-dollar homes in the area, but there are also plenty of spacious, cheap rental opportunities. Prime architectural styles are Dutch Colonial Revival, and Beaux-Arts styles, and buildings tend to have spacious apartments that are between four to ten stories and are a mix of both standard rentals and co-ops. A change to the neighborhood makeup has started to occur as homeowners are selling their properties to developers who in turn are building high-rise and flashy new developments. 

While the building make up has started to change, the Hispanic and Asian populations have grown since 2000, providing a haven for members searching for those communities. 

Residents of the area have access to Forest Park to the West and Maple Grove Cemetery, two places that allow New Yorkers to get a breath of fresh air.

Washington Heights

Average 1br rent: $2,200

Washington Heights is an enchanting neighborhood in New York City, located near the Harlem River and boasting stunning views of the Hudson River. 

It’s an incredibly vibrant area that offers a unique blend of culture, cuisine, and entertainment for both locals and visitors alike. Washington Heights also has several parks and green spaces for relaxation and recreation. 

Its close proximity to Manhattan means that locals can easily access all of the shopping, dining, cultural attractions, and nightlife the city has to offer. 

Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a night out on the town, Washington Heights has something for everyone.

Riverdale, Bronx

Median rent: $2,573

Riverdale is described as being often being confused for the suburb, and no, it’s not the TV show we’re talking about. In the 19th century, Manhattan’s notable figures would build their country estates in the area and later brought wealthy businessman who lived their year round. 

A mix of both single family homes, co-ops and rental buildings, Riverdale is a perfect example of a mix of city and suburbia. Residents get to be in close proximity to the Hudson River, Yonkers and the city.

Astoria, Queens

Average 1br rent: $2,675

Astoria is a historic and vibrant neighborhood in Queens, New York City. Situated along the East River, it is bordered by Long Island City to the west, Sunnyside to the south, and Woodside to the north. 

The area is known for its cultural diversity and history and popular attractions, including Astoria Park, The Museum of the Moving Image, and so much more! 

The neighborhood also has many local restaurants serving up a variety of cuisines from around the world. Not to mention – it’s affordable! 

Harlem, Manhattan

Average 1br rent: $2,600

Historically, Manhattan has never been the cheapest borough to live in NYC, but Harlem provides a little exception. Living in Harlem is a great experience. 

There are many things to do in the neighborhood, and it’s close to all of the amenities you could need. The people who live there are friendly and welcoming, and it’s a safe place to live. 

You’ll find everything you need here, from restaurants to shopping to nightlife. From cultural attractions and historical landmarks to vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine, there’s something for everyone. 

If you’re looking for a great place to call home, Harlem is a great choice! 

Cheapest Borough to Live in NYC

North Shore, Staten Island 

Average 1br rent: $1,800

If you don’t mind a bit of a commute – including a ferry ride – you might consider adding Staten Island, the cheapest borough in NYC, to your browsing list. The North Shore of Staten Island is made up of multiple neighborhoods but is most notably known for housing West Brighton, New Brighton, St. George, Tompkinsville, Clifton and Port Richmond. 

A few-minute bus ride will get you from your apartment to the Staten Island Ferry that runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. From there, you’ll be brought to the south of Manhattan where you can access the rest of the island via a transit method of your choice. You also have easy access to the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge where you can take a bus to get to South Brooklyn.

Residents love that Staten Island is so close to nature, with easy access to hiking trails and fishing spots in nearby Clove Lakes Park. There is also the benefit of being close to shopping as Empire Outlets is right off the ferry stop in St. George. You’re far more isolated from Manhattan than in other boroughs of New York, but some people prefer the space that allows them to disconnect. 

Need a helpful place to start your search in your budget? We leaned heavily on RentHop’s Stats & Trends page to get an idea about what was out there. Moving to NYC (or relocating in NYC) can be challenging and daunting, but don’t fret, hundreds of other people have been in the same boat as you.

The post 9 Most Affordable NYC Neighborhoods appeared first on CitySignal.

It’s buildings like these that make NYC so exhilarating. Each year, new construction projects go up in the city, creating landmarks and changes to the skyline. They command our attention, often through not-so-subtle means, and have the strange power to make us feel anew about the city we thought we knew so well.

6 Buildings Changing the NYC Skyline

In 2022, several buildings debuted in NYC, adding to the already awe-inspiring skyline. Some were lucky enough to bypass NYC’s rigorous development process, while others had to battle it out to stake their claim in the city.

Below are six of New York City’s most impactful structures completed in 2022, each with its unique effect on the city’s skyline and community as a whole.

1) “TRIO,” 27-19 Thomson Avenue (Long Island City)

In 2001, the Department of City Planning rezoned 37 blocks at Long Island City’s core. This undertaking provided Queens with an incredible opportunity for revitalization and growth. It saw the repurposing of LIC’s old warehouses, many of which have been converted into luxury residences. But it also called for new construction to take place, an initiative that would transform the Queens skyline from an industrial no man’s land to an urban oasis of gleaming skyscrapers.

TRIO, which stands at 10 stories and sits on Thomson Avenue, is a 2022 addition that’s no less impressive when compared to its much taller neighbors, including the 67-story Skyline Tower. Trio’s trapezoidal glass façade, with a two-tone scheme of charcoal and off-white, befits the ever-evolving LIC skyline. Designed by Andres Escobar, who’s known for blending modern elements with classic forms, the building offers 30 residences, each one boasting condo-level finishes like quartz countertops and porcelain tiles, plus radiant heated floors and Toto Neorest Automatic toilets to top it off.

Of the 30 residences, 11 joined the affordable housing lottery program spearheaded by NYC Housing Connect. To be eligible, applicants must earn around 130% of the area median income, a range varying from $88,835 to an upper limit of $187,330. These income thresholds have reignited yet another round of affordable housing debates, with some online users taking to NewYorkYimby.com to express their discontent over the city’s use of the term “affordable.”

2) “96+Broadway,” 250 West 96th Street (Upper West Side)

Manhattan’s Upper West Side is more than its timeless brownstones, tree-lined streets, and stroller culture. Thanks to buildings like 96+Broadway, the neighborhood is now a destination for those seeking a contemporary urban experience. Designed by Danish architect Thomas Juul-Hansen, this 23-story condominium topped out in 2022, rising from the remains of a Gristedes supermarket (pronounced gri-STEE-deez for the uninitiated) that had been a fixture in the area for decades.

Standing at the intersection of 96th Street and Broadway, where the Upper West Side meets Morningside Heights, 96+Broadway’s façade is a modern take on the classic pre-war buildings that have long characterized the area. The structure is clad in limestone and steel, with country-style windows that give the building an almost industrial edge while still paying tribute to its historic surroundings. Bronze-finished balusters, white oak flooring, and several Juliet balconies add to the building’s classic aesthetic.

Although 96+Broadway is under the city’s voluntary inclusionary housing program, which means it would receive an extra 3.5 square feet of allotted space for every 1 square foot of affordable housing included in the final product, only one of its 131 units has been officially designated as “affordable.” The other 130 are on the market for upwards of $1 million.

3) 45 Park Place (Tribeca)

One of two buildings on this list that faced foreclosure before being completed in 2022 (the other being 291 Livingston Street), 45 Park Place, is the work of SOMA architects and ultra-lux interior designer Piero Lissoni. Located steps away from the Chambers Street subway station, this 42-story condominium stands out with its sculptural glass façade, which evokes a sense of movement and flow.

The building offers 50 condominiums, ranging from one-, two-, and three-bedroom lofts to three- and four-bedroom homes that take up an entire floor. Residents enjoy a suite of amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center with a yoga studio, a children’s playroom, and a 50-foot indoor pool spread across deep green marble floors.

The property was recently featured in the Tribeca Citizen’s “Unfinished Business” piece, where it joined the likes of 65 Franklin, 65 West Broadway, and 317 Broadway as buildings with a troubled history and/or stalled construction. The article took shape after the author had received several inquiries from Tribeca locals as to what was happening with the partially finished 45 Park Place and the other “holes in the ground” throughout the neighborhood. 45 Park Place has yet to be completed as of late 2022, but its notable presence stand stall offering yet another luxury address to Tribeca’s high-end real estate landscape. Some of the lots have also yet to show signs of progress.

4) 291 Livingston Street (Downtown Brooklyn)

Nestled minutes away from the hustle and bustle of Barclays Center is 291 Livingston Street, a 22-story hotel tower that has been completed — for the most part — in 2022. The project fell into financial difficulties shortly after plans were filed in 2018: Ownership defaulted on a $29.7 million mortgage, according to New Jersey-based news outlet Local Today, with real estate lender Acres Capital seeking to terminate its equity interests while the property stood at 80% completion.

Despite the hotel’s uncertain future, one thing’s for sure: 291 Livingston Street has become one of the most eye-catching buildings in the Downtown Brooklyn skyline. Designed by Gene Kaufman Architect, the 100-key hotel boasts a zebra-striped façade on one side and sleek concrete slabs on the other. The structure offers a unique sense of verticality, with its slender frame towering 189 feet in the sky.

From its inception, the hotel was set to feature a ground-level beer garden and a metal-framed glass canopy welcoming guests into the lobby. These features would have solidified the project’s stark transformation from a Wendy’s fast food joint to a boutique hotel in the heart of Brooklyn. Whether or not they’ll be included in its grand opening remains to be seen.

5) “Front & York,” 85 Jay Street (DUMBO)

You know those “Fast Pass” transponders you get at the amusement park to skip the long lines and go straight to the attraction? 85 Jay Street is Brooklyn real estate’s version of that. Because no rezoning or special permissions were required for its construction, the project has circumvented public negotiations that often slow down large-scale developments in the city. These include affordable housing availability, pledges for union labor, limited parking arrangements, and other community-driven initiatives.

With no hiccups to deter its progress, this mixed-used complex known as Front & York is poised to leave an indelible mark on DUMBO’s landscape. Spanning a full block from Front Street to York Street and Jay Street to Bridge Street, the site consists of 320 rental apartments and 408 condo units, making up the largest residential building in the neighborhood.

Furthermore, residents are treated to the largest indoor pool in DUMBO, a full-size indoor basketball court, a separate floor dedicated to fitness and wellness activities, and a private park. But those who end up living here may need to get over the fact that it was built on 72,000 cubic yards of formerly contaminated soil. The city’s Department of Environment Conservation remediated the soil through its Brownfield Cleanup Program, however, making it suitable for occupancy in 2022.

6) “The Brooklyn Tower,” 9 Dekalb Avenue (Downtown Brooklyn)

In an early 2022 post, we reported on the nearly completed 9 Dekalb Avenue, which made its way to our list of five extraordinary skyscrapers reshaping NYC’s skyline. The building made history on October 28, 2021, when it topped out at 1,073 feet, becoming the tallest building in Brooklyn and the tenth tallest in the city.

The Brooklyn Tower, as it’s also known, is like something out of a sci-fi movie. Its deconstructed octagon look shines with Neo Art Deco elements of stone, bronze, and steel. Along the roofline, protruding beams give the effect of a gold crown atop the structure, which can be seen from many miles away. It’s no wonder why the building’s design firm, SHoP Architects, won the American Prize for Architecture in 2022: the project was (and still is) an absolute marvel.

9 Dekalb houses 150 condo residences above the 53rd floor and 425 apartment rentals below. It also contains the Dime Savings Bank of New York, a landmark structure founded in 1859 and celebrated for its exquisite Beaux-Arts architecture. Amenities include a “Sky Lounge” on the 66th floor, an outdoor pool deck, a library, a movie theater, and several fitness studios.

Upcoming in 2023 and Beyond

It’s time to cast our gaze on the future, as 2023 and beyond will bring with it an array of significant construction projects that are set to take off in New York City.

Take a look at some of the buildings expected for development, completion, or occupancy in 2023 and beyond:

• Flushing Commons Phase II, 136-35 39th Avenue, Flushing, Queens
• Mandarin Oriental Residences Fifth Avenue, 685 Fifth Avenue, Midtown, Manhattan
• The Cortland, 555 West 22nd Street, Chelsea, Manhattan
• ONE11 Residences at Thompson Central Park, 111 West 56th Street, Midtown, Manhattan
• 45-03 23rd Street, Long Island City, Queens
• Sutton Tower, 430 East 58th Street, Sutton Place, Manhattan
• 460 Tenth Avenue, Hudson Yards, Manhattan
• 300 West 30th Street, Penn District, Manhattan
• 45 Broad Street, Financial District, Manhattan
• The Matteo, 323 East 79th Street, Yorkville, Manhattan
• 450 Washington Street, Tribeca, Manhattan

Final Thoughts

NYC’s ever-changing skyline is a testament to its capabilities, an expression of its boldness and drive. From commercial properties to residential structures, these buildings represent a snapshot of hope, resilience, and progress. The ones on this list are but a few of NYC’s most notable buildings completed in 2022, setting the stage for what potentially awaits us in 2023 and beyond.

So look up and listen. NYC’s buildings are telling stories. And we can’t wait to see what they will say next.

The post The 6 Most Impactful NYC Structures of 2022 appeared first on CitySignal.

Staten Island Sins

Staten Island, the forgotten borough, has had more than its fair share of fascinating cases of true-crime horror, from The Nimer Murders to the murder spree of Salvatore Perrone. But perhaps no name is as famous or feared as that of convicted kidnapper Andre Rand, who is currently serving several consecutive life sentences for several murders and kidnappings in the city. The borough’s most notorious serial killer, in 2004, he was convicted of abducting Holly Ann Huges from her Port Richmond neighborhood on the East Shore in the early 80s. But his terrible misdeeds stretched back earlier, all the way to 1972 with the disappearance of at least six other people, although he was never formally charged for their disappearance. 

In August 1987, the body of a 12-year-old Westerleigh resident, Jennifer Schweiger, was found in a shallow grave on the grounds of what is now the College of Staten Island; but the jury only convicted him on kidnapping charges, not murder.

It’s unknown how many more victims Rand has, and he shows very little remorse for his actions. Rand is a prolific writer known for sending out several Mother’s Day missives “to all the ladies of Staten Island who supported ‘prosecutorial vincitvness’ against an innocent person.’  In 2001, while in prison, he released a series of letters to The Advance, a newspaper, the earliest of which was written back in 1994. The letters include an argument against nuclear proliferation, autobiographical stories of his youth, and a detailed sketch of a small aircraft. The quiet neighborhood where Rand lived in what is now West Brighton only blocks away from the famous Staten Island Zoo, with listings such as this 3 Bedroom on Marion Street only a few minutes walk away from Rand’s previous home.

Bad Clams in Manhattan

Located at 129 Mulberry Street, Umberto’s Clam House in Little Italy was the location of one of the most sensational assassinations of a mob boss, when Joey “Crazy Joe” Gallo was murdered only weeks after getting married. After celebrating his birthday with his wife, his sister, child, and bodyguard at the Copacabana, Gallo and his entourage were found dining at the Clam House, Joey ordered the shrimp and scungilli salad. While they ate, a quartet of gunmen arrived and open fire at the family, fatally wounding Gallo but not before they were able to turn the butcher table on its side to provide shielding for the rest of his family. Gallo stumbled to the front door, cursing at the gunmen as they fled before collapsing into a puddle of his own blood in the street: a scene straight out of any mafia movie. 

This was a particularly brazen attack as the hit had been conducted while Gallo was celebrating his birthday and was with his family at the time, and was a marked escalation in the conflict between the Five Families of New York. “Crazy Joe” had started a war against his bosses for control of the family and paid for it with his life. His death started another war when his crew broke off from the rest of the Colombo Family, leading to a series of ten gangland slayings before they eventually rejoined, making it one of the bloodiest mafia wars in the city’s history. 

The restaurant had only been open for two months before the 1972 hit, but Umberto’s Clam House is still open, serving as a historical landmark and tourist attraction for true-crime fans, mafia aficionados, and clam lovers alike. Want to live where the mafia used to frequent? Right around the corner is 181 Hester Street, where you can snap up a 1 bedroom apartment and feel like the mob boss that you are.

The Red Circle Slayer of Queens 

The Red Circle Slayer terrorized the quiet community of Hollis Hills in Queens, New York, throughout the late 1920s and early 30s, and although a suspect is currently behind bars, no one is sure if it’s the right man. The popular patch of woods where the first attacks took place was filled with booze, used condoms, and underwear; a popular spot for young lovers at the time. The killer attacked young couples and lovers who found themselves within his unfortunate gaze, often while out “necking” or making out in their cars. His first victims were Lewis Weiss, 20, a clerk at a steel company, and Frances Hajek,19, who worked at her family’s bakery.

Separate similar incidents earlier in the decade were attributed to the 3X Murderer who taunted police and had victims near the site of the Red Circle slayings, although this did nothing but murky the waters of a new, potentially dangerous killer on the loose. 

Due to a number of bad leads, unreliable witnesses, and false admissions of guilt, the killer, who was known for placing a red circle painted in lipstick on the foreheads of victims, has never been confirmed. But in 1938, Walter Wiley, a career criminal with a long rap sheet, could not come up with an alibi for the night of Hajek’s death. While a jury was ultimately unable to indict Wiley on murder charges, he was put behind bars for unrelated robberies and spent 40 years behind bars, effectively ending the Red Circle Slayer’s reign. Locals, although, were less reassured; perhaps there’s a serial killer living amongst the quiet Queens community after all these years. For those amateur sleuths or those who simply want to do a little necking in a picturesque New York neighborhood, this three-bedroom, second-floor apartment is in a beautiful, safe location, but only minutes away from the Red Circle site.

The Hole of Brooklyn

John Gotti, or the Teflon Don, is one of the most famous names in popular media when it comes to the Italian Mafia. Before passing away in prison at the age of 61 while serving a life sentence, he was the leader of one of the most notorious crime families in New York, the Gambinos. After seizing power by ordering the murder of Paul Castellano, who was the head of the family at the time, he became a famous public figure. Gotti was known for his expensive taste and less-than-scrupulous business practices, earning him an additional nickname; the Dapper Don. But the Dapper Don had some dark secrets, not including the bodies that his “operations” would inevitably pile up; and he needed a place to dump them. Enter The Hole.

This ten-block stretch between East New York and Howard Beach is directly on the border of Brooklyn and Queens, and today is almost unrecognizable as “New York City” from a traditional standpoint. The neighborhood is at a lower elevation than the surrounding area, resulting in a noticeable dip, earning it its name. The Hole is also named so for another reason, as it was one of the largest mass graveyards for the mob, and a personal favorite of John Gotti. Residents of The Hole have recovered so many bodies from the area that they can be used as landmarks, and they continue to be found even as recently as 2004 when the bodies of Dominick “Big Trin” Trinchera and Phillip “Philly Lucky” Giaccone were exhumed. THe area now serves as a base for a branch of the Federation of Black Cowboys. While living in The Hole is a bit risky, the area frequently floods due to its low elevation; those who want to live near this grim reminder of mob history will be happy to know there are many listings near the neighborhood, such as this fully furnished 2 bedroom duplex only blocks away from where bodies were found.

The Son of Sam in The Bronx

David Berkowitz, also known as the Son of Sam, lived at 35 Pine St, Yonkers NY after being brought up in the Bronx. After the death of his adoptive mother, he became a loner before joining the army in 1971, distinguishing himself as a marksman. After his return to New York he worked as a security guard, all while being haunted by the voices in his head, demons he would later claim, who were spurning him on toward murder. He took his first victims in 1975 on Christmas Eve, when he attacked a young Michelle Foreman and another unidentified woman with a hunting knife. Foreman was 15 years old at the time. Berkowitz moved to Yonkers in 1976, where the demons in his head took the form of the neighborhood dogs and eventually Sam’s neighbors themselves; it wasn’t long before he continued his spree.

With victims in four of the five boroughs, not including Staten Island, the entirety of New York felt the terror of the .44-caliber killer, so named because of the bullets used to tie the murders to a single killer.

After sending a series of letters out to previous landlords, neighbors, and other affiliates, local police were alerted to a potential candidate for The Son of Sam and reported it to the NYPD’s special Omega Task Force tasked with nabbing the killer, but these tips ultimately went unheeded because of the sheer number of false leads. It wasn’t until an eyewitness came forward to report that she’d seen Berkowitz with a gun only moments before she heard gunshots in Brooklyn that he was finally apprehended by the police.

When his Yonkers apartment was searched, they found satanic graffiti drawn on the walls and diaries detailing over 1,400 arsons he was also allegedly responsible for. Berkowitz ultimately rescinded his claims of demonic influence and stated he instead was lashing out in anger at a world he felt had rejected him. True crime fans who want to see and hear the demons that drove Berkowitz mad can find availabilities at the 42 Pine Street apartments just a few doors down from his Pine St resident, though his building is now privately owned, dark tourists aren’t guaranteed welcome.

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