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Willets Point - Queens - NYC

I’ve only just begun my explorations of Willets Point. I will be returning in the near future for a dedicated tour of the neighborhood, so please keep checking the Updates page and my YouTube channel!

Within the sprawling neighborhood of Flushing, in northern Queens is the district of of Willets Point. Downtown Flushing is to the east, across Flushing Creek, while Flushing Meadows - Corona Park is to the south. The Grand Central Parkway forms the eastern border with North Corona, while LaGuardia Airport is to the north, across the waters of Flushing Bay.

Willets Point slideshow (Coming Soon):

The Neighborhood

Willets Point is a unique and often overlooked neighborhood located in Queens, New York City. Situated in the northern part of the borough, Willets Point is known for its distinct industrial character and its proximity to major attractions, such as Citi Field, home to the New York Mets, and the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, where the US Open is held.

Here are some key aspects of the Willets Point neighborhood:

1. Industrial Landscape: The most prominent feature of Willets Point is its vast industrial landscape. The area is home to numerous auto repair shops, scrap yards, and small manufacturing businesses. The neighborhood has a gritty, working-class feel, with many auto mechanics plying their trade and heavy machinery scattered throughout the streets.

2. Flushing Meadows-Corona Park: Just to the south of Willets Point lies Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, one of the largest and most iconic parks in New York City. The park is home to various attractions, including the Queens Museum, the Queens Botanical Garden, and the Unisphere, which was featured in the 1964 World's Fair.

3. Sports and Entertainment: Willets Point is adjacent to Flushing's bustling sports and entertainment district. Citi Field, a major league baseball stadium, is home to the New York Mets and hosts various events and concerts throughout the year. The USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center is just a short walk away, attracting tennis enthusiasts from around the world during the US Open.

4. Redevelopment Plans: For years, there have been discussions and plans for redeveloping Willets Point. The area has long been considered underutilized, and proposals have been made to transform it into a mixed-use neighborhood with residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. This has sparked debates and concerns among local business owners and residents about the impact of such changes on their livelihoods and the neighborhood's character.

5. Transportation: Willets Point is accessible by several transportation options. The neighborhood is served by the 7 train, providing easy access to Manhattan and other parts of Queens. Additionally, it's conveniently located near the Van Wyck Expressway, making it accessible by car.

6. Community and Challenges: The Willets Point community has historically faced challenges related to environmental concerns due to the industrial nature of the area. Issues like inadequate infrastructure, flooding, and subpar road conditions have been ongoing concerns for residents and business owners. As redevelopment plans move forward, the neighborhood's population and character may undergo significant changes.

In conclusion, Willets Point is a neighborhood that stands in stark contrast to the vibrant diversity of Queens. Its industrial landscape, proximity to major sports and entertainment venues, and ongoing discussions about redevelopment make it a neighborhood with a unique identity and a complex future. While the neighborhood may undergo changes in the coming years, it remains a significant part of Queens' diverse urban fabric.

Highlight Gallery (Coming Soon)

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All photography provided by Samuel Walters