<strong>Queens Residents Rally Against Proposed Rezoning Plan at Heated Public Hearing</strong>
<strong>Hundreds of Queens residents</strong> gathered at a public hearing last night to oppose a proposed rezoning plan that could significantly alter the character of several neighborhoods. The plan, spearheaded by city officials, aims to increase housing density near major transit hubs to address <strong>New York’s housing crisis</strong>.
<strong>Residents voiced concerns</strong> about the potential displacement of long-time families and small businesses, as well as the strain on already-overburdened infrastructure. <em>“This plan is being pushed through without considering the people who live here,”</em> said <strong>Grace Kim</strong>, a community organizer from Flushing. <em>“We need affordable housing, but not at the expense of our community.”</em>
<strong>City planners</strong> argue that the rezoning is essential to meet the growing demand for housing and to combat skyrocketing rents. <em>“Our goal is to create more equitable housing opportunities while preserving the unique character of these neighborhoods,”</em> said <strong>Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer</strong>.
<strong>The hearing</strong>, held at <strong>Queens Borough Hall</strong>, became heated at times, with residents chanting slogans and holding signs reading <em>“Save Our Neighborhoods.”</em> The <strong>city council</strong> is expected to vote on the proposal in the coming weeks, with revisions likely based on community feedback.
