The strip park became a focal point for the evening since the community can now see a "concrete" example of Queens West's work. Ways of focusing attention on neighborhood issues, such as protesting, writing letters, and scrutinizing public officials with regard to the Queens West project, were offered by attendees. Suggestions by other community residents included a survey, distributed throughout the neighborhood.
It was announced that the purpose of the September 6th Public Hearing was to officially record the comments of community members regarding the proposed use of eminent domain proceedures by Queens West. The serious issue of condemnation was brought home when a resident said "the project itself will someday create the need (to acquire more property). They will need a school or a hospital."
Some 49th Avenue residents and business owners, whose properties are adjacent to the park, discussed their increasing security problems, many stating that people were climbing over the wall, at all hours, onto their properties. Since this group has numerous project-related problems, the Coalition offered to meet with them separately to discuss these issues and ways to resolve them. Other problems, such as the loss of the 51st Avenue view corridor, the lack of drinking fountains, and the miniscule tot lot in the park were also addressed.
For those who want to communicate their concerns to Queens West, elected officials, or to other project-related organizations an address list is available. To receive a copy, please call the Coalition office. The Coalition will continue to host community meetings, and will invite elected officials, Queens West representatives, and the press, to future meetings.
To contact the Hunters Point Community Coalition
Call or write:
Hunters Point Community Coalition