EDC issues request for expressions of interest for Rockways courthouse building

The New York City Economic Development Corporation issued a request for expressions of interest for the long-vacant Rockaway Courthouse in Queens, in the Hammels section of the Rockaways, according to a statement from the agency today.

The 24,000 square-foot limestone building is close to public transportation and was weather-proofed by the city in 2007, the statement said. The EDC is seeking innovative ideas for the reuse of the structure that are “compatible with the existing neighborhood,” and can “ultimately improve the overall quality of life for the community.”

The site is currently zoned R4-1, which allows for small residential and community uses. Any zoning changes, and the associated costs, would be the responsibility of the user, the statement said. The building is located at 90-01 Beach Channel Drive.

This project will be undertaken in conjunction with the Rockaway Task Force, a group of elected officials and community members that Mayor Michael Bloomberg convened in 2010 to find new ways to serve the Rockaways community.

“This great community resource has been on my radar for several years… [The project] will become the latest addition to the continuing Rockaway renaissance that has brought new housing, recreational and retail development in recent years,” Helen Marshall, Queens Borough President, said in the statement. — Guelda Voien