Walk-in interviews will be held on Thursday, April 23 from 11 AM – 2 PM for a free, full-time 8-week Green Construction & Energy Efficiency Training Program (May 4 – June 30). Important: Only open to residents of these zip codes: 11101, 11102, 11103, 11104, 11105, 11106, 11369, 11373, 11377. You must bring proof of address to attend. The program offers hands-on training, industry certifications, and job readiness for those serious about a career in construction and energy efficiency

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Join us along with Friends of Whitey Ford Field to help clean Whitey Ford Field as part of the citywide initiative Pitch in For Parks. Cleanups will take place on two days: Saturday, April 25 from 10 am to 1 pm and Saturday, May 2 from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm. Register To register, please click here.

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After years of advocacy, a neighborhood-wide rezoning in Astoria and Long Island City is finally moving forward. Queens Community Board 1’s decision to begin outreach and study the current zoning framework marks a meaningful shift and a chance to address long-standing inconsistencies. For over a decade, OANA has called for a comprehensive approach rather than piecemeal rezonings tied to individual projects. A coordinated plan can better align housing, infrastructure, and economic development while creating clearer, more predictable rules. As the process begins, OANA will engage residents and stakeholders to help shape recommendations. Done right, this rezoning can balance growth with quality of life and ensure Astoria remains a vibrant, accessible community. Read the op-ed here. The op-ed was also published in the National Herald.

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The Shore Towers Condominium near Astoria Park has unveiled a newly redesigned lobby that blends modern upgrades with its original architectural vision. The refreshed space features terrazzo floors, travertine walls, and warm walnut wood accents. The design draws inspiration from midcentury modern icons like the Seagram Building and Lever House which emphasizes clean lines and a sense of openness. Residents and visitors are now welcomed by an open entrance with contemporary art, modern lighting, and a seating area with a fireplace overlooking the river. Project leaders aimed to honor the building’s 1989 origins while creating a more elevated, world-class entry experience. The result is a thoughtful update that reflects both Astoria’s evolution and the enduring appeal of midcentury design. Read more here: https://qns.com/2026/04/shore-towers-condominium-astoria-lobby-redesign

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The MTA recently announced planned public workshops for the proposed Interborough Express (IBX), a major transit project that would connect neighborhoods across Brooklyn and Queens. These workshops are designed to give the public a direct role in shaping the project. Attendees will be able to learn about the latest updates, ask questions, and provide feedback that could influence factors such as locations, train design, and overall priorities. The IBX has the potential to significantly change how people travel between boroughs and is the latest development in the discussion around creating alternatives to traveling through Manhattan to get to Brooklyn or Queens. For communities like Astoria and LIC, this could mean faster commutes, improved access, and new opportunities, but also raises important questions about infrastructure and neighborhood impact. That’s why we are encouraging our readers to attend these workshops: your voice can make a difference. The MTA is actively seeking input from residents, local organizations, and business owners to help guide the future of the project. These workshops are only the fist step, but Public input at this stage can play a meaningful role in shaping a project that will impact New York City for decades to come. Learn more about the workshops and public hearings here: www.mta.info/project/interborough-express

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Participatory budgeting is back in Astoria with $1 million in public funds allocated to be spent across the community. Beginning April 11 through April 19, neighbors who live, work, or attend school in District 22 can vote on a range of local projects through an initiative led by Tiffany Cabán. To participate simply review the proposals and choose up to the projects that you think we should be supporting. The ballot includes a wide mix of community-driven ideas. On the expense side, proposals range from free citizenship classes and weekly meal programs to youth theater, afterschool enrichment, and immigration legal assistance. Other initiatives focus on workforce development, digital access, and park programming for seniors. Capital projects, which involve larger infrastructure investments, include upgrades to school facilities, playground improvements, new technology for classrooms, and safety enhancements along key corridors like Steinway Street and Astoria Boulevard. There are also proposals to modernize libraries, build STEAM labs, and repair recreational spaces such as tennis courts in Astoria Park. Voting can be done in person at schools, libraries, community events, or the district office, as well as online at vote.pbnyc.org. The goal is straightforward: put real decision-making power in the hands of the community and ensure funding reflects local priorities. This is a great chance for Astoria residents to shape the future of the neighborhood.

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DSNY is rolling out a new rule requiring all buildings with 1–9 residential units to use official NYC trash bins starting June 1, 2026. We’ve been talking about this for a while, but the date is finally here. The official bins are designed to be rat-resistant and more secure, hoping this leads to fewer loose garbage bags on the street. The standard bin costs under $50 and is available for pickup at your local Home Depot or for delivery through services like DoorDash, Instacart, and Uber Eats. Some homeowners may qualify for a reimbursement through the NYC Department of Finance, particularly those receiving the STAR property tax benefit. DSNY will also host virtual info sessions throughout the spring for residents who want more details. OANA encourages residents and property owners to plan ahead and comply before the deadline. Learn more here: https://bins.nyc Virtual Info Session Dates Thursday, April 16 at 6:00 PM Thursday, April 30 at 6:00 PM Thursday, May 14 at 6:00 PM Thursday, May 28 at 6:00 PM Thursday, June 11 at 6:00 PM Thursday, June 25 at 6:00 PM

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Rivercrest is hosting a St. Baldrick’s fundraiser on May 2 to support childhood cancer research and bring neighbors together. The event will feature kids activities, raffles, a silent auction, a live DJ, and head shaving. Participants who shave their heads will receive complimentary draft beer and wine. Organizers are seeking donations, raffle items, and community support. If you have anything to contribute please reach out to them! Learn more here: https://www.stbaldricks.org/events/rivercrest2026

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Join us for our next meeting on April 29 at 6:30 PM, which will be held virtually. We’re excited to feature Adam Gordon, Managing Partner of Wildflower Ltd, the new film and TV production studio in Astoria developed in partnership with Robert De Niro. Additional presenters will be announced soon. Stay tuned for more details! Watch on Facebook Watch on Youtube

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Astoria Residents: our streets are not bad but there is still room for improvement! Now you can help make our roads better if you see any potholes or other issues: The Queens Borough President’s Office is actively collecting reports of unfilled potholes across the borough as part of an ongoing effort to speed up repairs. If you spot one, please share the exact location, a brief description, and a photo if possible so it can be forwarded for repair. Your input helps make our streets safer for everyone. To report a pothole, you can email: tchubinidze@queensbp.nyc.gov

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