Queens News

"> ">

St. John's University Raises Record $5.5M in NYC

St. John's University raised a record $5.5 million for student scholarships during its annual President's Dinner, held October 29 at the New York Hilton Midtown. The fundraising total exceeded the previous $4 million record and brought the event's cumulative contributions above $60 million since 1998. More than 700 guests registered for the gathering, which recognized alumni and supporters whose contributions help students facing financial barriers to higher education. Five members of the university community received Spirit of Service honors. The event also featured students sharing how scholarship assistance has helped them continue their studies and pursue professional goals.

"> ">

James Gray Film Series Comes to Queens Museum

Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria, Queens, will present James Gray's New York, a seven-film series running November 7–22, 2026, celebrating the city's cinematic history through films selected by the Queens-born director. The program includes Gray's The Immigrant and a special November 12 preview of his new crime drama Paper Tiger, followed by an in-person appearance by the filmmaker. Other selections include Midnight Cowboy, Force of Evil, Raging Bull, The French Connection and Side Street. The series explores New York's neighborhoods, immigrant experiences, crime and cultural identity through films spanning several decades. Screenings will take place at the museum in Astoria, with advance tickets and program information available at movingimage.org.

"> ">

Van Wyck $1.4B Upgrade Opens New Airport Lanes

For years, New Yorkers and visitors traveling to and from John F. Kennedy International Airport have faced frustrating traffic delays on the Van Wyck Expressway, where heavy airport traffic, merging vehicles and years of construction have contributed to slow-moving commutes and unpredictable travel times. Now, new high-occupancy vehicle lanes have opened in both directions as part of a $1.4 billion modernization project designed to ease one of Queens' most persistent transportation bottlenecks. The lanes accommodate buses, taxis, for-hire vehicles and private cars carrying at least two people, including the driver. Redesigned entrance and exit ramps are also intended to reduce traffic backups, while upgraded drainage systems aim to prevent flooding-related disruptions. With major highway construction substantially complete, the improvements are expected to provide smoother, more reliable access to JFK, although actual reductions in travel times have yet to be measured.

"> ">

MTA Launches $1.9B A and C Subway Signal Upgrade

Subway riders traveling between Brooklyn and Queens are set to benefit from a major infrastructure investment aimed at addressing one of New York City's persistent transit problems: delays caused by aging signal equipment. The MTA has begun a $1.9 billion modernization of the A and C subway corridors, replacing technology dating to the 1930s with a computerized system that can better manage train movements. Funded through congestion pricing revenue, the project covers 42 track miles and 23 stations used by approximately 350,000 passengers each weekday. Construction will begin with track and switch replacements in Queens, while the full modernization is scheduled for completion in 2032. The investment is intended to support more frequent and reliable subway service.

"> ">

NYC AI Jobs Institute Aims to Train 40,000 by 2032

As artificial intelligence changes the skills employers seek, New York is investing in ways for residents to enter technology careers without relying solely on traditional industry pathways. A new AI Jobs Institute in Long Island City will combine workforce training, employer connections and support for entrepreneurs, with a goal of reaching 40,000 New Yorkers by 2032. Operated by the nonprofit Pursuit, the initiative is backed by $10 million in public investment and partnerships spanning technology, finance, education and philanthropy. The Queens facility is expected to be fully occupied in mid-2027 and will also house a center focused on helping underrepresented entrepreneurs develop businesses. The initiative reflects growing efforts to connect technological change with economic opportunity.

"> ">

York College to Launch Evening Nursing Program in 2027

For New Yorkers interested in nursing careers, finding time for college while maintaining a job or supporting a family can be a major obstacle. York College in Jamaica, Queens, is introducing a new evening nursing program beginning in spring 2027 to provide an alternative to traditional daytime study. The CUNY institution has educated nursing students for more than four decades, with graduates working in healthcare facilities locally and beyond. The new option will combine evening coursework with clinical experiences, creating additional scheduling flexibility for qualified students pursuing a nursing degree. York College has not yet announced application dates or detailed enrollment requirements, but prospective students can contact its Department of Nursing for information as the launch approaches.

"> ">

NYC Red Light Cameras Now at 600 Intersections

New York City has completed the expansion of its Red Light Camera Program, installing cameras at 600 intersections across all five boroughs, Mayor Zohran Mamdani and NYC Department of Transportation Commissioner Mike Flynn announced. The expansion reaches the maximum number of intersections permitted under current state law. According to NYC DOT, red light running has declined by more than 80% at camera locations, while injuries from rear-end collisions have fallen nearly 60% and injuries from T-bone crashes have decreased 70% since installation. The city selects camera locations based partly on crash and injury histories. Officials say the expanded program will strengthen efforts to prevent dangerous driving and improve street safety.

"> ">

Jackson Heights Gets $33.8M for First Community Center

Governor Kathy Hochul announced a $33.8 million investment supporting the development of Jackson Heights' first community center and community swimming pool through the Variety Boys & Girls Club of Queens. The project includes $10 million in state funding, $9.3 million from the New York City Council and additional federal, state and private contributions. Planned for 70-02 34th Avenue, the facility will feature a gymnasium, basketball courts, a theater and recreational spaces, with programs serving children, families and seniors. Proposed services include after-school activities, early childhood education, workforce development, health and wellness, and arts programming. The center is expected to serve up to 10,000 children when completed, although a construction completion date was not provided.

"> ">

Elmhurst Hospital Earns Lung Cancer Excellence Honor

NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst has received renewed recognition from GO2 for Lung Cancer for its efforts to improve lung cancer screening and patient care in Queens. The hospital's Lung Cancer Screening Program provides low-dose CT scans, patient navigation and follow-up services to help identify cancer at earlier stages. Staff also participate in community outreach events, educating residents about screening eligibility and helping them schedule appointments. According to the hospital, nearly 1,000 patients have participated in the program since its launch. Elmhurst joins a national network of more than 350 recognized centers that share resources and practices aimed at improving lung cancer care. The designation highlights the hospital's efforts to expand access to preventive services.