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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PR- 320-03
November 7, 2003

MAYOR MICHAEL R. BLOOMBERG ANNOUNCES ACQUISITION OF OLD ELMHURST TANK SITE FOR PUBLIC USE

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg today announced that the City would acquire six acres of land from KeySpan Corporation for public use space in Elmhurst Queens.  The Mayor made the announcement on his radio show, “Live From City Hall With Mayor Mike and John Gambling” on WABC. Joining the Mayor on the radio show to make the announcement were United States Congressman Joseph Crowley, State Senator Serph Maltese and Councilmember Dennis Gallagher.

“Every day, this administration is looking for opportunities to improve neighborhoods throughout the five boroughs,” said Mayor Bloomberg.  “Increasing open space, encouraging appropriate economic development and working with the communities are the foundation of our plans to revitalize New York City’s neighborhoods.  Today, I am pleased to announce that we have negotiated an agreement with KeySpan Energy that we expect to result in a new park for the residents of Queens.”

KeySpan agreed to accept an offer from the City to buy the site at a bargain sale price; the details of the purchase are still being finalized.  The site, the former home of the “Elmhust Tanks,” is bounded by 57th Avenue, Grand Avenue, 80th Street and the Long Island Expressway, will be used for the benefit of the community and will not be developed as a big box store.

“I want to commend Mayor Bloomberg, and the work of all the elected officials at the Federal, State and City levels for their efforts in trying to turn the Elmhurst-Maspeth gas tanks site into a community space a reality,” said Congressman Crowley.  “Instead of looking at asphalt and being subjected to more traffic, these children and families will now have the opportunity to take advantage of an open community space, which will improve the quality of life for the residents of Maspeth, Middle Village and Elmhurst.” 

“I am thankful for the Mayor's intercession with Keyspan,” said Councilmember Gallagher “This step by the Mayor will enhance and improve the quality of life for the people I represent.”

“KeySpan appreciates the dialogue we have had with the community and the leadership of Mayor Bloomberg,” said Robert B. Cattell, Chairman and CEO of KeySpan Corporation. “This is the right outcome for all involved.”







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