By Chris Engelhardt
Community Board 1 approved an application last week to allow Mount Sinai Hospital of Queens in Astoria to expand its facilities, a decision that hospital officials and community leaders said would benefit the community for years to come.
CB 1 unanimously voted in favor of the hospital’s request for minor zoning variances June 18, as well as an application for the construction of a six-story addition on property on the west side of Crescent Street between 30th Avenue and 30th Road and partial renovations of the existing hospital building.
According to the proposed plan – designed by NK Architects and Davis Brody Bond LLP — expansions and upgrades are set for out-patient services as well as urgent care. In addition, the hospital will also expand its emergency department and observation unit, and will feature new imaging facilities and operating rooms.
CB 1 District Manager Lucille Hartmann said the board’s approval of the measure will ensure quality service and support for residents in Astoria, as well as those in nearby neighborhoods.
“This will better fit the community and also serve the hospital’s needs better,” she said.
Construction is slated to begin this fall. The expansion is set to be completed by 2016, with the hospital being fully operational by summer of the same year.
Reach reporter Chris Engelhardt by e-mail at cengelhardt@cnglocal.com or by phone at 718-260-4564.
