Woodhaven Queens

Practice Areas

Bankruptcy Solutions

The purpose of federal bankruptcy legislation, sometimes known as Title 11 of the United States Code or the “Bankruptcy Code,” is to provide an opportunity for financial reorganization or a fresh start for legitimate debtors who are unable to fulfill their obligations.

Foreclosure Solutions

As you are undoubtedly aware, many homeowners are in arrears on their mortgages as a result of the 2020 recession brought on by the coronavirus. At first, most lenders had been understanding and would have granted a brief suspension of the late payments.

Debt Negotiations & Settlements

Clients regularly hire the Law Office of Ronald D. Weiss, P.C. to represent them in negotiations with banks, mortgage holders, credit card issuers, auto financing providers, landlords, tax authorities, and other creditors.

Mortgage Loan Modifications

The most common strategy used by our firm to prevent a house in severe mortgage arrears from going into foreclosure is a mortgage modification. Mortgage modification and other potential Retention Options are the potential goals of most homeowners in foreclosure because most people experiencing serious hardships with their mortgages are looking for “Retention Options

Credit Card Solutions

For consumers, credit card debt and other unsecured personal loans are the most common types of debt. There are a few legal options for handling credit card debt, including the following: Litigation, bankruptcy, and/or negotiated settlements are the three options.

Debtor Litigation Defense

Many of The Law Office of Ronald D. Weiss, P.C.’s clients face the possibility of litigation or collection activities from their creditors because they are accused of having debt that they are unable to pay or because they contest the existence, amount, or obligation of the debt.

Landlord Tenant Solutions

Landlord-Tenant Law is one of our firm’s areas of expertise; we defend landlords and tenants in a variety of legal proceedings before the Landlord-Tenant Court and the New York Supreme Court. When it comes to eviction and/or collecting large amounts of past due rent.

Distressed Real Estate

A. Pre-Contract When a seller (the “Seller”) sells real estate to a buyer (the “Buyer”), there are usually a number of important steps involved. A seller will first list their property on the market for sale. A real estate broker is frequently hired by the seller to help locate possible buyers for their property.

Student Loan Solutions

In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes,” as Benjamin Franklin famously said. This phrase has recently been amended by popular opinion to include student loans. Since most jobs these days require a bachelor’s degree, the amount of debt that Americans owe on their student loans

Tax Debt Solutions

Many people have trouble keeping up with their tax payments to the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance (“NYS”), which includes sales taxes, income taxes, payroll taxes, and other state taxes, as well as the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”), which includes individual income taxes.

Woodhaven, situated in the southwestern part of Queens, is a neighborhood renowned for its lush tree population and close proximity to the scenic hiking trails of Forest Park. Once referred to as Woodville, it boasts a blend of urban and suburban characteristics, featuring both low-density residential areas and commercial zones. Despite its urban setting, Woodhaven has managed to preserve a small-town atmosphere reminiscent of days gone by, attracting residents from diverse ethnic backgrounds.

Bordered by Park Lane South and Forest Park to the north, Richmond Hill to the east, Ozone Park and Atlantic Avenue to the south, and the Cypress Hills neighborhood of Brooklyn to the west, Woodhaven enjoys a strategic location within Queens. It falls under Queens Community District 9 and bears the ZIP Code 11421. Policing in the area is overseen by the New York City Police Department’s 102nd Precinct.

In terms of political representation, Woodhaven is encompassed by the New York City Council’s 28th, 30th, and 32nd Districts.

Jamaica Avenue, the bustling main artery of the neighborhood, traces its origins back to an ancient Native American trail known as the Old Rockaway Trail. The northern boundary of the Rockaway territory was marked by the terminal moraine of the Wisconsin glacier, forming the ridges of what is now Forest Park. Historically, Forest Park was inhabited by the Rockaway and Lenape Native Americans until the Dutch West India Company settled the area in 1635. Native Americans in the region utilized arrowwood stems found abundantly in Forest Park for crafting arrow shafts.

Woodhaven’s European settlement commenced in the mid-18th century, evolving into a small farming town centered around families like Ditmar, Lott, Wyckoff, Suydam, and Snediker. During the American Revolutionary War, British troops executed a silent night-march from Gravesend, Brooklyn, through the lightly guarded “Jamaica Pass,” located in Brooklyn, to outmaneuver General George Washington’s Continental Army and secure victory in the Battle of Long Island, Queens—the war’s largest battle post-Declaration of Independence.

Subsequently, Woodhaven gained prominence as the location of two renowned racetracks: the Union Course (1821) and the Centerville (1825). Union Course, situated in the area now bounded by 78th Street, 82nd Street, Jamaica Avenue, and Atlantic Avenue, was particularly notable for introducing the first skinned—or dirt—racing surface. The racetracks attracted significant crowds, with match races between horses from the North and South drawing audiences as large as 70,000.

In 1835, a Connecticut Yankee named John R. Pitkin developed the eastern region as a workers’ village and named it Woodville. By 1853, the village had its own newspaper, and the residents petitioned for a local post office, leading to the change of the name to Woodhaven to avoid confusion with another Woodville located upstate. The village further developed when Charles Lalance and Florian Grosjean established a tin factory in 1863, transitioning Woodhaven into a manufacturing community.

Despite these developments, the surrounding area remained primarily farmland until the turn of the 20th century. The local newspaper, the Leader-Observer, has been documenting Woodhaven’s history since 1894.

Based on data from the 2010 United States Census, Woodhaven had a population of 56,674, showing an increase of 2,525 (4.7%) from the 54,149 reported in 2000. Covering an area of 853.08 acres, the neighborhood had a population density of 66.4 inhabitants per acre.

The racial composition of Woodhaven was as follows: 17.3% White, 6.1% African American, 0.4% Native American, 17.4% Asian, 0.0% Pacific Islander, 2.4% from other races, and 2.8% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino individuals comprised 53.5% of the population.

Community Board 9, which encompasses Kew Gardens, Richmond Hill, and Woodhaven, had a total population of 148,465 as of NYC Health’s 2018 Community Health Profile, with an average life expectancy of 84.3 years. Most residents are youth and middle-aged adults, with 22% falling between the ages of 0–17, 30% between 25 and 44, and 27% between 45 and 64. The proportion of college-aged and elderly residents was lower, at 17% and 7%, respectively.

Regarding socioeconomic indicators, the median household income in Community Board 9 was $69,916 as of 2017. In 2018, an estimated 22% of Woodhaven and Kew Gardens residents lived in poverty, with 8% unemployed. Rent burden, or the percentage of residents struggling to pay rent, stood at 55%, higher than boroughwide and citywide rates. Despite these challenges, Woodhaven and Kew Gardens are considered high-income relative to the rest of the city and are not experiencing gentrification.

Woodhaven is characterized by its ethnic diversity, with a majority Hispanic/Latino population, alongside small numbers of African Americans and a growing Asian American community.

Woodhaven is predominantly a residential semi-suburban neighborhood, with commercial areas primarily concentrated along Jamaica Avenue, a prominent west–east thoroughfare that effectively divides the neighborhood. Additionally, commercial zones extend along Atlantic Avenue, which forms the southern border of Woodhaven.

In terms of geography, southern Woodhaven is generally flat, with the lowest elevation measuring just under 30 feet (9.1 meters). As one moves northward, the terrain gradually rises, reaching approximately 105 feet (32 meters) in northern Woodhaven as it nears the expanse of Forest Park. Within Forest Park itself, there are numerous hills adding to the area’s varied topography.

Residential

In the northern part of the neighborhood, homes predominantly feature Victorian and Colonial architectural styles, with many properties boasting ages exceeding 120 years. Even in the southern section, Victorian-style houses are prevalent. Overall, Woodhaven is often regarded as a more affordable option compared to many other areas within the city.

Commercial

Jamaica Avenue is lined with numerous stores and restaurants, many of which are small and locally owned. Among these, Lewis of Woodhaven stood as one of the oldest establishments, with two locations, until it closed in 2004. Despite this closure, many longstanding businesses continue to thrive in the area.

Neir’s Tavern, dating back to 1829, is often cited as one of the city’s oldest bars. Initially owned by the Neir family until 1967, it experienced a period of decline before shutting down in 2009. However, new owners revived the tavern in 2010. Despite efforts by Woodhaven residents and preservationists, it has yet to receive official recognition from the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission.

Other notable establishments along Jamaica Avenue include Popp’s Restaurant, operating since 1907; Manor Delicatessen, established in 1914; and Schmidt’s Candy, which first opened its doors in 1925 and is currently managed by the granddaughter of its founder.

Woodhaven hosts an annual motorcycle parade on Woodhaven Boulevard, which serves as a tribute to the bravery of war veterans. During this event, donations are collected for the Salvation Army, and holiday toys are gathered for needy children. Additionally, an annual street fair is held on Jamaica Avenue, featuring live music and various activities for children. This fair celebrates the diversity of Woodhaven’s residents, showcasing the different backgrounds from which they originate.

The neighborhood has been a breeding ground for various creative talents, including writers, artists, musicians, actors, and filmmakers. Woodhaven has even been recognized as one of the epicenters of New York City’s metal landscape, alongside Greenpoint, due to the presence of a recording studio in the area. Notably, there is a tattoo and piercing parlor in Woodhaven run by women, which gained attention after being featured in the documentary Feminine Ink.

The former St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, now known as All Saints Episcopal Church, boasts a parish hall dating back to 1907. Designed by architect Robert F. Schirmer, the church itself was constructed between 1926 and 1927 in the Late Gothic Revival style. This architectural gem was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2001. Adjacent to the church lies the Wyckoff-Snediker Family Cemetery, a separate historic site.

St. Anthony’s Mansion, later converted into St. Anthony’s Hospital, once occupied a seven-acre plot on Woodhaven Boulevard between 89th and 91st Avenues. This hospital played a significant role in advancing pulmonary and heart treatments, but it was demolished in the late 1990s. Today, the site, now known as Woodhaven Park Estates, has been marked with a historical plaque.

Another notable landmark is the Beaux-Arts Fire Command Telegraph Station, located at the intersection of Woodhaven Boulevard and Park Lane South within Forest Park. This structure, featuring an octagonal shape topped with a cupola, has served the fire department since 1928.

One of the oldest homes in Woodhaven, situated at 87-20 88th Street, was originally located on Jamaica Avenue. Built around 1910, the entire house was relocated to its current address on 88th Street in 1920 due to the construction of the BMT Jamaica Line. This house holds historical significance, as it was associated with Albert Voigt, a German immigrant, and was the site of the first house numbered in Queens under the Philadelphia Plan.

Neir’s Tavern, established in Woodhaven in 1829, is one of the oldest bars in the United States, with a long and storied history. Rumored to be haunted, the tavern has been in almost continuous operation since its founding, except during Prohibition.

The Crystal Manor Hotel building, situated at Woodhaven Boulevard and Jamaica Avenue, remains largely unchanged in its brick exterior after more than a century. Once a refined hotel catering to businessmen, it stands as a testament to the neighborhood’s rich architectural heritage.

Woodhaven also has literary and cultural significance. Betty Smith, author of “A Tree Grows in Brooklyn,” wrote much of the book in the area, although the story is set in nearby Cypress Hills. Additionally, the Woodhaven Post Office features a New Deal mural by artist Ben Shahn. Dexter Park, where the Brooklyn Royal Giants, a professional Negro Baseball League team, once played, is commemorated with a plaque. Lastly, the Lalance & Grosjean Tin Manufacturing Factory contributed to the design world, with some of its products featured in MOMA exhibitions on 20th-century design.

Kew Gardens, Richmond Hill, and Woodhaven fall under the jurisdiction of the 102nd Precinct of the NYPD, headquartered at 87-34 118th Street. In 2010, this precinct ranked 22nd safest out of 69 patrol areas for per-capita crime.

As of 2018, the rate of violent crimes per capita in Woodhaven and Kew Gardens, with a non-fatal assault rate of 43 per 100,000 people, is lower than that of the city as a whole. Additionally, the incarceration rate of 345 per 100,000 people is lower than the citywide average.

Comparing crime rates over time, the 102nd Precinct has seen a significant decrease in crime since the 1990s, with a reduction of 90.2% across all categories. In 2018, the precinct reported 2 murders, 24 rapes, 101 robberies, 184 felony assaults, 104 burglaries, 285 grand larcenies, and 99 grand larcenies auto.

As of 2018, certain health indicators in Woodhaven and Kew Gardens reflect both challenges and areas of strength. While preterm births are more common in this area compared to the citywide average, births to teenage mothers are less frequent. The uninsured population in Woodhaven and Kew Gardens is slightly higher than the citywide rate. However, the concentration of fine particulate matter, a dangerous air pollutant, is lower than the city average.

In terms of lifestyle factors, the percentage of smokers in Woodhaven and Kew Gardens is lower than the city average. However, rates of obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure are slightly higher than the citywide averages. Additionally, a higher percentage of children in this area are obese compared to the citywide average.

Despite these challenges, a significant portion of residents in Woodhaven and Kew Gardens consume fruits and vegetables daily, and the majority rate their health as good, very good, or excellent. However, there is a higher ratio of bodegas to supermarkets in this area compared to the city as a whole.

The nearest major hospitals serving Woodhaven and Kew Gardens are Long Island Jewish Forest Hills and Jamaica Hospital.

Forest Park, the third largest park in Queens, bears witness to the ancient geological history of Long Island. Formed by the retreat of the Wisconsin Glacier some 20,000 years ago, the park’s landscape showcases the hills that emerged in the wake of the glacier’s movement, particularly to the north of Woodhaven. Originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Rockaway, Delaware, and Lenape, the area saw the arrival of Dutch settlers from the West India Company in 1634, leading to the establishment of towns and the displacement of indigenous peoples.

Today, Forest Park boasts the distinction of hosting the largest continuous oak forest in Queens. Within its expansive grounds, visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including the historic Forest Park Carousel, which earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places in 2004. The park also offers recreational amenities such as playgrounds, Strack Pond, barbecue areas, a bandshell, a nature center, a dog run, and hiking trails. Additionally, Forest Park provides therapeutic horseback riding programs tailored for individuals with special needs.

Adjacent to Forest Park, Dexter Park once stood as a baseball field occupying 10 acres in Woodhaven, situated just east of Franklin K. Lane High School. Notably, Dexter Park was equipped with the first engineered lighting system for night games, a pioneering innovation installed in 1930.

As of 2018, Woodhaven and Kew Gardens exhibit a lower rate of college-educated residents compared to the broader city. While 34% of residents aged 25 and older possess a college education or higher, 22% have less than a high school education, and 43% are high school graduates or have attained some college education. In contrast, 39% of Queens residents and 43% of city residents boast a college education or higher.

However, there are positive trends in academic achievement among students in Woodhaven and Kew Gardens. The percentage of students excelling in math witnessed a substantial increase from 34% in 2000 to 61% in 2011, with a similar upward trajectory observed in reading achievement, rising from 39% to 48% during the same period.

Moreover, Woodhaven and Kew Gardens demonstrate lower rates of elementary school student absenteeism compared to the city at large. Only 17% of elementary school students in these neighborhoods missed twenty or more days per school year, a figure lower than the citywide average of 20%. Additionally, the graduation rate among high school students in Woodhaven and Kew Gardens exceeds the citywide average, with 79% graduating on time, compared to the citywide average of 75%.

In 1836, Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) cars were initially drawn by horses along Atlantic Avenue. These cars operated at street level, much like buses, stopping at major intersections where passengers would often embark or disembark while the car was in motion. The 1848 LIRR schedule referenced intersections named Union Course, serving the racetrack, and Woodville, located farther east. As electrification progressed, the LIRR established permanent tracks, and the Union Course station commenced operations on April 28, 1905. By 1911, the platform was expanded to accommodate four tracks, leading to the closure of Atlantic Avenue to other traffic in most areas. This expansion effectively divided the community, serving as the border between Woodhaven and Ozone Park.

Elevated transit service to Williamsburg and Lower Manhattan commenced in 1918 with the operation of the BMT Jamaica Line above Jamaica Avenue. Surface track service on Atlantic Avenue, along with seven stations between Jamaica and Brooklyn, ceased on November 1, 1939. It was replaced by underground tracks and a single underground station between Jamaica and Brooklyn in 1942, restoring Atlantic Avenue as a continuous roadway. The Woodhaven Junction station, located at 100th Street on the LIRR’s Atlantic Avenue Branch, provided rail service to Jamaica station and Brooklyn (Atlantic Terminal) until its closure in 1977. This station was heavily utilized by beachgoers and commuters, who transferred to the aboveground LIRR station for trains to Rockaway Beach and Far Rockaway. The Woodhaven Junction station was decommissioned when this section of the Rockaway Beach Branch was abandoned in 1962.

Presently, MTA Regional Bus Operations routes Q11, Q21, Q24, Q52 SBS, Q53 SBS, Q56, QM15, and BM5 serve Woodhaven, while the New York City Subway’s J and Z trains operate along the Jamaica Line. Some transit advocates in Queens are advocating for the reopening of the Rockaway Beach Branch of the LIRR, potentially including the Brooklyn Manor station in Woodhaven at Jamaica Avenue and 100th Street. An alternative proposal suggests leaving the naturally reforested tracks untouched or converting them into a rail trail akin to Manhattan’s High Line.

Neir’s Tavern, located on 78th Street, gained cinematic fame when it was featured in the 1990 Martin Scorsese film “Goodfellas.” In a memorable scene, Mafia members flaunt their ill-gotten gains, including mink coats and pink Cadillacs, after robbing the airport. This scene was immortalized at Neir’s Tavern, where an historical marker now stands outside the establishment. In 2017, Jamaica Avenue and 80th Street served as the backdrop for a scene in the Woody Allen movie “Wonder Wheel,” starring Justin Timberlake and Juno Temple. Additionally, the opening scenes of the 1984 film “The Flamingo Kid” were filmed at 96th Street and Jamaica Avenue. Notably, Franklin K. Lane High School in Woodhaven was the filming location for the school scene in “Spider-Man: Homecoming,” featuring Tom Holland.

Television shows have also utilized Woodhaven as a filming location. “The Americans” filmed scenes at the Forest Park Bandshell, while “Person of Interest” utilized the Forest Park Carousel for certain scenes. Moreover, there are anecdotes suggesting that legendary actress Mae West once graced the stage at Neir’s Tavern, performing in an entertainment hall located upstairs.

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