Jewish American Heritage Month

Posted By admin on November 30, 2021

REGO PARK, Queens The story of the triangle-shaped lot along Queens Boulevard began 80 years ago. Over the years, a movie theater became a synagogue and a restaurant turned into a bank, and then a local diner.

A clock tower on the corner has become a beacon to Rego Park. Some neighbors dont want to see it disappear.

The land owner and developer has filed plans to demolish the building and is asking the city to rezone it. New plans include a 15-story residential complex with commercial space on the ground floor.

The building is not landmarked. The proposal requires city approval.

A public hearing was held this monthwith Community Board 6. Thats the first step in the process.

Therecommendation will be reviewed by the Queens Borough President, and then the citys Planning Commission, and finally, City Council will make thedecision.

Michael Perlman is chairperson of Rego-Forest Preservation Council. He lives nearby and it has been a favorite spot for his family, friends and community.

This means something to so many people. For our developers and politicians to ignore us, its unfair and a travesty, he said.

Someof the businesses have found new homes. The owners of the diner have another restaurant down the boulevard.

Perlman says the fight for the building and clock tower goes on. A petition set up by the preservation council currently has nearly 4,000 signatures.

A representative for the land owner and developer did not have any additional comment.

The company website says the new structure could be open by 2024. The review process routinely lasts six months or more.

Read the original here:

Neighbors rally to save historic diner and building in Queens - WPIX 11 New York

Category: Synagogue
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