Kew Gardens, a neighborhood in Queens, New York, presents a mixed picture in terms of safety and crime rates. According to CrimeGrade.org, Kew Gardens is rated D- for overall safety, placing it in the 13th percentile. This means that 87% of neighborhoods are considered safer, and 13% are more dangerous. The rate of crime in Kew Gardens is approximately 28.48 per 1,000 residents in a standard year. The southeast part of the neighborhood is generally regarded as the safest area. The likelihood of being a victim of crime varies within the neighborhood, with a higher chance in the west and a lower chance in the southeast.
Violent Crimes Statistics In Kew Gardens
Violent crime in Kew Gardens also receives a D- grade, indicating a higher rate compared to the average US neighborhood. The violent crime rate is about 2.844 per 1,000 residents per year. Similar to overall crime, the southeast part of Kew Gardens is viewed as safer for violent crime. The rate of violent crime per resident might seem inflated due to the day-time population, which includes visitors to the area’s retail establishments and recreational areas. It’s important to consider both crime rate and total crime maps when assessing safety.
Despite the crime statistics, Kew Gardens maintains several positive aspects. The neighborhood boasts a variety of well-performing primary and secondary schools, with P.S. 99 being a notable public school. Additionally, the neighborhood has a higher percentage of college-educated adults compared to the city average, which can be an indicator of a stable community.
Community Projects In Kew Gardens
In addition to the crime and safety statistics, Kew Gardens, Queens, NY, has several community initiatives and projects that contribute to its overall quality of life and safety. The Kew Gardens Civic Association (KGCA), established in 1914, actively works to improve and maintain the community. This includes engaging with politicians, public officials, and other community stakeholders on various projects. Their efforts have ranged from fighting for the borough-based jail to preserving local bridge stores and addressing issues with the Umbrella Hotel. The association’s broad membership includes homeowners and cooperative and condominium corporations, indicating a strong community involvement in local governance and initiatives.
Furthermore, the area has seen significant infrastructure developments, such as the Kew Gardens Interchange Project. This project, completed in late 2022, received recognition for its innovative use of technology in transportation. It involved revamping a heavily traveled corridor in Queens, improving travel times, safety, and connections to major destinations like John F. Kennedy International Airport and LaGuardia Airport. This development has been beneficial for reducing congestion and enhancing overall safety in the area.
Additionally, the Kew Gardens Community Center plays a vital role in the neighborhood. Established in 1996, it serves as a hub for community activities and services. The center initially began as a senior center and has since expanded its offerings to include various educational and recreational programs for all ages. This includes a peer-led education model for older adults, theater and museum trips, and hosting events for local organizations. The center’s role as a focal point for community engagement contributes positively to the neighborhood’s social fabric.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Kew Gardens faces challenges with crime rates higher than many other neighborhoods, it also offers a community with quality education and a significant proportion of educated residents. As with any urban area, it’s essential for residents and visitors to stay informed and take appropriate precautions.
Born and raised amidst the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple, I’ve witnessed the city’s many exciting phases. When I’m not exploring the city or penning down my thoughts, you can find me sipping on a cup of coffee at my favorite local café, playing chess or planning my next trip. For the last twelve years, I’ve been living in South Williamsburg with my partner Berenike.