New fence set to replace eyesore

Area residents have been complaining about the garbage-strewn lot for at least two years. Councilman Dan Halloran (R-Whitestone), whose office is nearby, and state Sen. Tony Avella (D-Bayside) both have been working to resolve the problem.

Halloran announced last Friday that he had met with Singh, who promised to replace the construction fence within a week. Halloran was also able to get Queens Buildings Commissioner Ira Gluckman to agree to his request to permit the new fence, which is two feet higher than allowed under the zoning rules.

Singh and the councilman hope the height will prevent dumping and trespassing.

“One of the problems is that this lot has changed hands several times recently,” Halloran said. “The new owner is anxious to be a good neighbor and we are pleased to work with him on behalf of the community.”

Singh decided against putting in a slatted fence because it would attract graffiti. He said he will also continue to clean the commercial lot.

In February, Avella and North East Flushing Civic Association President Peter Brancazio pressured the city to have the lot cleared after a decade of dumping. Junk there included a truck, debris, a kitchen sink, pieces of wood and other refuse.

Avella has formed a task force of area civic groups to help identify similar offending sites and push the city to take action.

Plans for the property are pending, but Halloran and Singh agreed to sow wildflower seeds there so neighbors will have something nice to look at this summer. “Our neighbors deserve some beauty, instead of a ghastly eyesore,” the councilman said.