Zoning's Impact on Astoria: A Long-Time Resident's View

Where in NYC do you live, and how long have you lived there?

Well I was actually born here but got my own place 5 years ago and live with my boyfriend now.

How do you define zoning?

I'm not sure, I think it is something that affects housing and businesses in a certain area. (We explained zoning to Zoey)

How do you think zoning has affected Astoria?

I would say negatively, all the new places are so expensive and ugly. I feel like it is a result of poor zoning policy in the area, since there is no affordable homes or well-made buildiings.

Have rent increases changed your desire to stay in the area?

For a while no, but now we are really feeling the increases. Ideally we would want to stay in Astoria because it is very close to the city by train and just has great charm, but if the rent keeps going up we will have to move.