As a Queens native and Flushing resident, my own feelings about Flushing Commons are mixed. On one hand, I’m thrilled at the possibility of having all of the amazing amenities that the complex will offer (packaged in responsibly and sustainably constructed buildings!) just a few steps from my door. On the flip side of the coin, I am terrified at having to wade through even more crowds and the horror that I anticipate the already jam-packed 7 train commute will be like.
In terms of the traffic and parking issues that the Commons present, I am secretly tickled pink that Flushing may be even less accessible by car because it will force more people to take public transportation to get here. To be fair, though, I don’t know if I’ll be singing the same tune if my friends that drive start visiting me less because they don’t want to deal with having to sit in traffic and finding parking. Last but not least, I’m also pretty excited that Flushing may become a New York City destination of choice (and not just for food tourism). At the same time, I hope that the neighborhood can retain its diversity and very affordable prices that I currently enjoy!
This project sounds amazing. Is it already approved for construction? If/when will it be complete? I, too, am looking forward to Flushing going from a run-down ethnic food spot to a green, cultural NYC destination.
As a native Flushing resident, I too have mix feelings about this project. I’m excited that there’s a sustainable project that’s gaining Flushing some positive PR but I’m not excited about the residential component being luxury condos They may be eco-conscious but I do not think they are socially conscious. The juxtaposition of a luxury condominiums across the street from low income housing projects, to me seems a bit socially inconsiderate. I do not think they have picked the right location for this project. Not to mention, the anchor retail stores are Target and BJ’s which will ruin all the small independent businesses in the community. (whatever is left of it)
Kudos to the architects for thinking of sustainability, but boo to the developers and re-gentrification.
I think it is extremely irresponsible to call this a “green” complex when it includes 1600 parking spaces in the heart of a transit-rich neighborhood.