Sunnyside and Woodside are residential neighborhoods in Western Queens. Direct access to the 7 train and proximity to Midtown — about 15 minutes away — have made these neighborhoods subject to rapid change. Recently, this development has intensified with a trend of luxury apartment construction. These apartments are characterized by glass facades, dark colors, plastic materials, rooftop pools and marketing as luxury units. While such apartments have been developed for years in Long Island City, they are relatively new to Sunnyside and Woodside.
These apartments differ greatly from the existing infrastructure in Sunnyside and Woodside. The neighborhood’s traditional apartments are mostly brick and reflect their age and history, embodying the working-class identity of both neighborhoods. The new apartments differ in almost every aspect, sparking considerable debate among residents.
Several of these developments have been completed, with more planned. Examples include a seven-story residential building at 43-34 53rd St. with 24 units and the Arcadia Woodside Condo at 40-22 61st St. with 76 units over seven floors, both finished within the past two years. A six-story, 19-unit apartment is currently under construction at 46-11 Queens Blvd., and an eight-story, 61-unit development is being planned at 43-12 50th St. All are marketed as luxury. Developers, including those of Arcadia Woodside Condo and Highline Residential, claim to blend with Woodside’s culture. On their website, they state: “Residents of Arcadia Woodside Condo can enjoy the best of both worlds — Woodside offers a diverse cultural experience and a rich heritage.” A unit at Arcadia recently sold for $789,144.
The developments have drawn mixed reactions from longtime residents, though most feedback is negative. Some object on aesthetic grounds. Landon Lopez, a 17-year resident of Sunnyside, said: “I don’t think they look good at all or fit with the aesthetic of the neighborhood.” Others raise economic concerns. Shalem Hughes, a 21-year resident of Woodside, said: “There was already a strain on infrastructure in the neighborhood — schools and the 7 train. So they’re adding people to systems that can’t support them.”
Overall, the developments draw mixed reactions. Some argue the growth will bring unprecedented economic development to Woodside and Sunnyside. Others contend it will eventually destroy the neighborhoods they know and love. Much will be decided by residents, but developments will continue.