The booming Long Island City real estate market could provide a template for successful urban development, according to speakers at Long Island City Partnership’s second annual LIC Summit: Priorities Plans.
“In many ways, Long Island City offers a microcosm of all of the great things that are happening in New York City, as well as some of the challenges that are the inevitable side effects of this success,” said Seth Pinsky, executive vice president, Fund Manager, Metro Emerging Markets Public Affairs Director, RXR Realty.
“Given this, it is more important than ever that those who care about this dynamic, mixed-use neighborhood come together to discuss and evaluate both what is going right and where opportunities for improvement exist.”
Michael Phillips, president of Jamestown, added, “With the transformations taking place in Queens and the wave of new construction, energy is coming to the borough, making it one of the most exciting places to do business in the city.
“I am excited to join the LIC Partnership and my fellow panelists to discuss how we can continue to strengthen the business community in LIC and create an environment that nurtures the next generation of great innovators.”
Hundreds of professionals, including business leaders, City and State officials and LIC stakeholders, gathered yesterday at the Museum of the Moving Image for the summit.
Co-hosted by Modern Spaces and The Queens Courier, the event kicked off with welcoming remarks from Queens Borough President Melinda Katz and a special LIC presentation given by Elizabeth Lusskin, president of the LIC Partnership.
Attendees enjoyed a day of multiple panels, moderated by experts and leaders in their industries, which discussed the changing landscape of LIC and its impact on transportation, business, the residential community, tourism and culture.
“It’s an exciting time for Long Island City,” said Lusskin. “In LIC, commercial, residential, cultural, industrial, tech and manufacturing all come together to form a true city within the City. The LIC Summit gives local thought leaders, policy makers and stakeholders a great opportunity to discuss exciting plans and priorities in store for this rapidly changing area. I thank our guests and all of sponsors for their support and continued investment in LIC.”
Eric Benaim, founder president of Modern Spaces, said, “Long Island City is quickly becoming the hottest neighborhood on the market.
“The area’s progress and influx of new development speaks to the resources and improvements brought on by the LIC Partnership. With continued support, the area will soon become a major hub for transportation, business, culture and tourism, joining a burgeoning residential community that is already enjoying everything LIC has to offer.”
Said New York State Senator Michael Gianaris, “This Summit is a unique opportunity for all those excited about LIC’s exciting future to shape what it will look like in years to come. Though Long Island City has a lot going for it, there are many things we must do to improve our quality of life and business climate, ranging from improved transportation to safer streets to more school seats.”
