Community Organizations
From The Peopling of Astoria, Queens
The Greater Astoria Historical Society
Chartered in 1985, the Historical Society is a cultural non-profit organization that hosts walking tours, field trips, presentations and lectures to preserve the past of Long Island City and to promote its future longevity. Its mission statement, which can be read in full at http://www.astorialic.org/about/about_p.php ardently emphasizes the preservation of Astoria’s rich history. The society lobbies for the preservation of historical sites or buildings including the successfully saved Sohmer Piano Factory.
Long Island City Alliance
This organization, frequently in collaboration with The Greater Astoria Historical Society, unites Long Island City residents including Astorians in protest to unwanted city development. The LICA on its official website http://www.licalliance.org/pages/position_p.php boasts of successfully influencing the office of Amanda Burden, Chair of the New York City Planning Commission in favor of limiting the construction of oversized buildings, purported to have added to neighborhood garbage and crime. The Alliance further addresses all issues affecting the quality of life of its residents.
Long Island City Business Development Corporation
Founded in 1979, this non-profit local development corporation works to improve the economic climate of Long Island City by assisting small private businesses and encouraging general business growth throughout its city. To view its 286 company members please visit their official website: http://www.licbdc.org/licbdc/home
The Central Astoria Local Development Coalition
Formed in 1979, this non-profit preservation coalition conducts activities to prevent the demolition of the neighborhood physically, historically and economically. Funded both through private and government programs, the Coalition assists owners of residential buildings and business organizations in addition to providing “cultural enrichment to the community”. For more information please visit their official website: http://www.centralastoria.org/index.html
Astoria Waterfront