June 15, 2025
As a realtor who’s watched Long Island City (LIC) evolve over the past decade, I can tell you this: the cranes aren’t going anywhere anytime soon.
Long Island City continues its rapid transformation into a high-density, high-demand district — and the latest wave of projects proves that developers are doubling down on both residential and commercial opportunities.
Let’s walk through what’s coming:
1. 42-74 Hunter Street — A Modern 10-Story Residential Build
Right in the heart of LIC’s residential zone, this once-vacant lot is getting a major facelift. A sleek gray-paneled building with floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies is rising, with an anticipated completion date of summer 2027.
There will be ground-floor retail, which is always a good sign for walkability and local convenience. If you’ve got buyers looking to move into LIC in a few years, this is one to keep on the radar.
2. 43-05 Crescent Street — Boutique Rentals with Contemporary Flair
This 9-story building near Crescent Street and 43rd Ave is going vertical soon. With 39 rental units averaging 684 sq ft and 200 sq ft of retail space, it’s clear this project is catering to renters looking for something modern but manageable.
Anticipated to wrap up by March 2026, the building design features a sleek glass curtain wall and rounded corners — LIC’s signature modern aesthetic.
3. 42-19 24th Street — A Towering 40-Story Addition
Demolition has just wrapped, and soon, LIC will welcome a 456-foot residential tower with 216 rental units. It’s a major vertical leap and adds another high-rise to the growing cluster near Queens Plaza South.
Although renderings haven’t dropped yet, the scale alone suggests a mix of market-rate rentals with some luxury appeal.
4. The Packard Motor Building — Commercial Revival in Full Swing
Not all the action is residential. The Packard Motor Building is getting a full upgrade courtesy of Related Fund Management. After being acquired for $61 million in 2022, the building is being expanded and renovated to total 325,000 sq ft.
Expect modernized office space, new elevators, and a revamped entrance — a solid sign that commercial confidence in LIC is alive and well.
The Bigger Picture:
With strong transit access via Queensboro Plaza, Queens Plaza, and the 33rd Street-Rawson Street stations, these developments continue to cement LIC as a premier mixed-use hub in NYC. It’s no longer just about skyline views — it’s about lifestyle, access, and long-term value.
If you're a buyer, investor, or developer eyeing Queens, now is the time to dig deeper into LIC’s opportunities. Between new rentals, refreshed commercial space, and infrastructure upgrades, the neighborhood’s not just growing — it’s maturing.
Disclaimer: This content is meant for informational purposes only and is not intended to be construed as financial, tax, legal, or insurance advice.
