An Economic Snapshot of Northwestern Queens 2011
New York City's tradition as a melting pot of cultures is vividly on display in the Queens neighborhoods of Corona, Elmhurst, East Elmhurst and Jackson Heights, which have the highest concentration of immigrants in New York City.
This report finds that during the past decade the number of businesses in this part of Queens grew three times faster than the rate of business growth in the rest of New York City. Job growth was also stronger than in the rest of the city in the years leading up to the recent recession.
The neighborhoods, however, face challenges. Rapid population growth in recent decades has contributed to school overcrowding and a shortage of affordable housing. Household incomes are lower than in many parts of the city. The recession also hit these neighborhoods hard. The Willets Point Redevelopment plan promises significant private and public investment, and new job opportunities. It remains to be seen, however, how quickly the redevelopment project progresses and how these communities will benefit.
Office of the State Comptroller, New York City Public Information Office. (2011). An Economic Snapshot of Northwestern Queens. Retrieved from https://www.osc.state.ny.us/files/reports/osdc/pdf/report-13-2012.pdf