Schools
Avella Slams Proposed Site for New School in Bayside
Senator says school would cause traffic, parking and quality of life problems for residential neighborhood.
State Sen. Tony Avella, D-Bayside, has blasted a proposal to construct a new school along 48th Avenue in Bayside.
The city’s School Construction Authority is eyeing a spot on 48th Avenue between 210th and 211th Streets where Keil Brothers is currently located.
Avella said the proposed site is situated in the middle of a residential neighborhood that already includes P.S. 31 a few blocks away.
“Frankly, this proposal makes no sense,” the senator said. “The school will literally be facing the backyards of homes. This is a quiet residential neighborhood that already has an elementary school a few blocks from this site. A school at this location will significant alter the quality of life of residents, including creating considerable traffic and parking concerns.”
Community Board 11 voted down the proposal on Monday night following a presentation by the School Construction Authority. But the City Council will ultimately have the final say on whether the school is built at the site.
Christopher Persheff, a site selector for the agency, said the school’s construction was meant to combat overcrowding at local schools.
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