Renovate Jamaica Avenue to improve the public realm and pedestrian experience, install community-driven public art, and explore a Walk of Fame

Jamaica Avenue Streetscape and Pedestrian Improvements, the main capital project on Jamaica Ave, is funded for $78M and includes two of the featured projects from the 2023 Jamaica NOW Streetscape Plan: the Jamaica Avenue Retail Corridor and the 153rd Street multi-modal hub. This project will reconstruct Jamaica Avenue between Sutphin Boulevard and 168th Place and replace the red brick pavers with standard sidewalks. This project will add bus bulbs, curb extensions, raised crosswalks, transit and streetscape furnishings, lighting, green infrastructure, wayfinding, public art and other place-making amenities, and increased pedestrian open space to reinforce Jamaica Avenue as the distinctive retail and cultural artery of Downtown Jamaica. This builds on work DOT has done on the same stretch of Jamaica Ave to add distinctive light fixtures that strengthen the identity of the Avenue.

The capital project has just kicked off, and the design process will be led by DDC in coordination with DOT and multiple City agencies including DCLA which will lead the Percent for Art artist selection. DOT is in discussions with DCLA to develop workshops and facilitate charettes to engage the community and local cultural stakeholders for feedback during the Percent for Art selection process.

Additionally, DCLA and The Department of Transportation (DOT) will meet with and advise neighborhood partners interested in creating a Walk of Fame on Jamaica Ave that honors the cultural, artistic, and civic impact of individuals from Jamaica and Southeast Queens. Once a proposal is developed, the Public Design Commission (PDC) will review proposals against established guidelines for the strategic installation of markers to commemorate people, places, and events significant to New York City's history and unique identity.

Funding: $78 million