Jamaica Neighborhood Plan Approved: 12,000 New Homes and 7,000 Jobs Ahead

The Jamaica Neighborhood Plan has received the City Council’s approval, setting the stage for significant urban development that aims to produce nearly 12,000 new housing units in Jamaica, Queens. This extensive initiative includes plans for around 4,000 affordable homes and promises to stimulate the local economy by creating over 7,000 job opportunities.

The Jamaica Neighborhood Plan, developed over two years through community engagement, allocates substantial investment to improve local infrastructure and public spaces. Residents voiced the need for safer streets, improved sidewalks, and increased green spaces, which has resulted in plans for renovating six major parks, as well as establishing two new pocket parks along key corridors, including Archa Avenue and Mary Boulevard (Source: https://youtu.be/blYfF792ljE&t=751).

In addition to housing, the initiative aims to generate over 2 million square feet of commercial and community facility space. This effort seeks not just to expand the housing stock but also to enhance the local economy by facilitating job growth and supporting local businesses. The commitment includes over $412 million earmarked for capital and programmatic investments in Jamaica, reinforcing the area’s role as a vital transit hub (Source: https://youtu.be/blYfF792ljE&t=0).

The plan also incorporates measures to address flooding risks and improve public transport facilities. Infrastructure investments include enhancing the local sewer system and implementing stormwater management projects, alongside upgrades to public transportation hubs (Source: https://youtu.be/blYfF792ljE&t=258).

The Jamaica Neighborhood Plan stands out as it features the largest mandatory inclusionary housing (MIH) zone in the city, ensuring that a percentage of new housing remains affordable. This includes both rental and ownership opportunities designed to assist low- and middle-income families, thereby fostering community stability amid ongoing development (Source: https://youtu.be/blYfF792ljE&t=456).

City planners have confirmed that these developments align with the residents’ desires expressed during extensive public meetings, ensuring that the revitalization of Jamaica respects its diverse culture and community integrity (Source: https://youtu.be/blYfF792ljE&t=4063). As Jamaica embarks on this transformative journey, residents can look forward to a future characterized by increased housing options, robust local jobs, and enhanced public amenities that contribute to a vibrant neighborhood life.