A Queens official has condemned the chaotic scene outside a former Rite-Aid store in Astoria that is now overrun by drunks, junkies and migrants. The Democratic deputy majority leader, State Sen. Michael Gianaris, who represents the district, has contacted both the NYPD and the mayor’s office about the 25,000 square-foot abandoned building.
The area has been transformed into a scene reminiscent of the post-apocalyptic TV show “Fallout” with a bizarre mix of toys, chairs, clothes, lights and bicycles decorating the space. The site was first occupied by middle-aged derelicts about seven months ago, drawing criticism from neighbors and officials alike due to its shockingly apocalyptic environment.
Sofas, tables, chairs, and mattresses can be seen on the pavement outside the building, with at least eight drunk individuals spotted loitering there during the week, drinking and laughing. At least two of them were unconscious and sprawled out on the ground.
City Hall has acknowledged the issue and stated that Mayor Eric Adams’ administration is taking a “multi-agency approach” to clearing such encampments. They have already taken action at the Astoria site, but problems remain with less furniture and trash in the area, and half as many drunks spotted compared to previous weeks.
However, issues persist, including drunk individuals using the Rite-Aid for their bathroom needs, which has led to pedestrians walking on the road instead of the sidewalk out of fear. Disgusted neighbors have expressed their anger at the degradation of a once pleasant spot in their community.
Rite-Aid closed the Astoria location due to poor sales and is now involved in bankruptcy proceedings, while the new owners of the building plan to expand it into a five-story mixed-structure comprising homes and retail space. The city’s Department of Buildings has raised objections to these plans, citing compliance issues among other problems, leaving the project’s future uncertain. In the meantime, complaints about the parking lot and encampment continue to pour in to 311.
