The New Jamaica Avenue

Years ago, Woolworth, May’s Department store, and Macy’s occupied Jamaica Avenue, affectionately referred to as “the Ave” by locals. After awhile, lower-priced stores such as Conway, Price Mart, 99 cent discount stores and Pretty Girl made up the shopping strip. While these stores still exist, other stores such Jimmy Jazz, Mony, and PayLess make up the majority of the shopping district. Currently, big chains like the Gap and Old Navy are operating near the movie theater on the Jamaica Avenue shopping strip. Stores such as Nine West, Home Depot, and Radio Shack are also making their way onto the busiest shopping centers in Queens. These changes are part of the rezoning effort by the City of New York for South Jamaica, Queens.

According to the PlanNYC website, developers are planning to make South Jamaica an “Airport Village.” With the AirTrain located towards the beginning of Jamaica Avenue, near the LIRR, this will allow tourists to spend their money in Queens rather taking the train to Manhattan. Many residents of South Jamaica think of this idea as a convenience for them also. MaryAnn Louis, a 20-year-old college student enjoys the fact that her “favorite shoe store, Nine West, is going to be so close to home.” Instead of going to Green Acres Mall or Queens Center Mall, both more than a half hour away, she can take a five-minute cab ride to Jamaica Avenue.

Article on the changes:www.therealdeal.net/issues/APRIL_2006/1143732822.php

PlanNYC Website:www.plannyc.org/QN-12