Image via QNSGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028.com

Innovation QNS is what they are calling itGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028.

A team of developers have leaked their plans to turn the industrial area, largely around the intersection of Steinway and 35th Avenue in Astoria, into an arts and culture centerGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028. Larry Silverstein who’s firm Silverstein Properties already owns/rents numerous locations in that area has partnered with Kaufman Astoria Studios, and BedRock Real Estate for the projectGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028.

Silverstein stated that this plan would re-activate a largely dormant portion of Astoria, especially during a time when people desperately need jobsGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028. The project would create 5,400 onsite jobs, 3,700 construction jobs, and 1,700 permanent jobsGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028. It includes 250,000 square feet of office space dedicated to creative industries and startups, 200,000 square feet of retail space, 2,700 apartments, dedicated senior housing, a state-of-the-art cinema, a 600-seat school, two acres of open space, health and wellness facilities, and a new grocery storeGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028.

Tracy Capune of Kaufman Studios assures us that no residents currently in the area will be displaced from their homes and all businesses will be accommodated and/or relocatedGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028. It is also said that 700 of the apartments would be affordable, and a portion of the office space would be available below market value for startups, artists, and non-profitsGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028.

The team on the project has been working with community groups and intends to host public workshops to gather feedbackGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028. The developers plan to submit a preliminary action statement for a City Council vote next spring or early fallGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028. Construction could start as soon as 2023 with of an expected timeline of 10 yearsGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028.

Here is to the next generation of artists, performers, makers, and creative entrepreneursGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028.