DEFINING THE BOROUGH OF QUEENS, NY THROUGH ITS PEOPLE
2.3 million people. As many as 138 languages spoken here. Over 125 different neighborhoods.
Northwestern Queens: Astoria Heights
Astoria Heights is a middle class sub-neighborhood of Astoria, also known as “Upper Ditmars”. The neighborhood is bounded by Hazen Street and Astoria to the West, LaGuardia Airport to the East, Bowery Bay to the North, and Astoria Boulevard and the Grand Central Parkway to the South.
Pictured is the entrance of the Francis R. Buono Memorial Bridge, or the Rikers Island Bridge, located off of Hazen Street. Before the bridge opened in 1966, access to Rikers Island was by ferry only.
The Riker-Lent Homestead, 78-03 19th Road is believed to be the oldest remaining dwelling in New York City still used as a residence.
The History section is in collaboration with Steve Vazquez of Queenscapes.