Bayside Could See Population Surplus With Preliminary Draft Maps

BAYSIDE, NY — A newly redrawn map of New York's City Council districts could increase District 19’s population by more than 6,000.

The draft map, released Friday by the city's Districting Commission, includes some significant changes to Bayside, which is represented by Councilwoman Vickie Paladino. Despite gaining ground in some areas, the district faces some losses in others.

Most notably, approximately 22 blocks between 47th Avenue to Northern Boulevard from 166th St. to Auburn Lane and 163rd to 167th streets between Northern Boulevard to Station Road, above Flushing Cemetery, would be absorbed by District 20.

Most of Flushing Bay would be in District 21.

Paladino’s district, however, would also make gains by encroaching on sections of District 23 and other parts of District 20.

District 19 would expand by approximately 17 blocks to 28th Road and 29th Avenue, which is currently in District 20. It would also increase by 17 blocks into what is now District 23, from Clearview Expressway to 214 Street between the Long Island Expressway and 56th Avenue.

The Council redistricting happens every 10 years to reflect population changes in the recent census. It isn't to be confused with the other redistricting process covering state legislative and congressional districts, which took effect this summer after a chaotic few months of legal battles and a court-ordered redrawing.

District 20 would make up some ground by shifting slightly downwards into District 24, as District 23 would take a chunk of the latter’s district by shifting southwest.

Paladino was not available at the time of this publication to respond to the changes made in the draft maps.

City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams said that the preliminary maps released are under review.

“It is critical for the public to provide input on these first drafts as part of the ongoing redistricting process,” Adams said in a prepared statement. “We strongly encourage all New Yorkers to participate, and we will continue working to ensure communities’ interests are prioritized and protected.”

To get feedback on the draft map, the Districting Commission will hold five more hearings at 4 p.m. on Aug. 15, 16, 17, 18 and 22. Members of the public can comment via Zoom, by email at publictestimony@redistricting.nyc.gov, or by mail at 235 Broadway, NY, NY 10007.