WE are deep in the summer doldrums, which is a perfect time to resurrect a long neglected issue here in LIC: The empty lot that is 49-18 Vernon Boulevard. Except this time we’re going to present a challenge.
For those unfamiliar, this lot is on the north west corner of 50th Avenue. Aka the most heavily trafficked intersection in Hunters Point due to it’s being the location for both main entrances of the Vernon/Jackson subway station and the higher volume businesses in close proximity that the stations attract.
This lot has also been wrapped up in sidewalk-crimping construction scaffolding for almost a decade, which in addition to being a pedestrian nuisance, is also an eyesore and has been since at least 2016. It’s ongoing presence has been a conundrum too.
Given the prominence of the location, this oversight is too egregious and has simply been going on too long. With that, I call on our City Councilwoman Julie Won to take action. This is a city issue, and she is our local representative.
As the voice of LIC, we are making her aware of this long term blight, but only she has the power and her staff the knowledge to navigate the city bureaucracy in an expedited manner. Whatever construction permits have been issued have long expired, as there has been no work on this site in years. The city should have long ago put this property in foreclosure based on the continuous fines that I am sure are due. Once they are alerted the process should move along quickly based on the duration of this issue and the heftiness of the fines. Now all we need is the right person to make that call and continue the pressure. Tear down this scaffolding Julie Won!
Original Plan For 49-18 Vernon – see pic: 5-stories, 20 units, retail on ground floor (hello Starbucks)
Mayor Adams, DOB Commissioner Oddo Unveil Plan to Remove Unsightly Sheds, Scaffolding From NYC Sidewalks – out this week
Taste 88 Types of Noodles At LIC’s Newest Ramen Place – a new challenge in Dutch Kills for Cool Hand Luke
Vernon Boulevard Will Be Car Free This Saturday – north of 44th Drive that is
Anonymous says
July 27, 2023 at 7:34 pmI agree total waste of real estate Should be a parking lot for the 108th
Andy says
May 8, 2024 at 10:49 amProbably wouldn’t stop them from parking on the sidewalk though
Anon says
July 29, 2023 at 11:32 amThe huge empty lot on 47th Ave between Vernon and 5th street should also be addressed. It’s been like that for at least a decade i think. Such a waste….big enough for housing, retail and green space.
ASensibleMan says
July 30, 2023 at 10:18 amThinking that Julie Won will do anything, ever, other than go to photo ops (in a different dress each time; what do they pay her?) is ludicrous. She’s utterly useless.
Leslie says
August 1, 2023 at 9:54 amAgree. She can’t even repave Jackson Ave.