A few points on One Hunters Point.

Directly Above The Midtown Tunnel

So this building on Borden Ave, One Hunters Point. Let’s just say I live near the construction site. According to the website and the hype etc, the condos seem like they’ll be the standard lux coming through LIC – perhaps even decently constructed. The developers had an extra obstacle to deal with while erecting the building – the Mid-town tunnel runs underneath part of the lot. They couldn’t build directly on the tunnel (someone’s thinking), but close enough that plans were scrutinized, and one can only hope this means intelligent engineers were actually hired. Of course, that has nothing to do with the interior finishings on the apartments…

I know these guys went around the block trying to buy everyone’s air rights…they definitely managed to get some since the building is 13 stories… and they got them at a steal if the $100/sf rumor is true.

So here’s something no one else will probably tell you: if you’re buying in this building, try to get a unit towards the back, away from the rail yard. Facing the rail yard 1) you don’t really have an interesting view unless you have some altitude, and 2) the rail yard idles a diesel engine all day from about 7am-6pm.

If you don’t know what that sounds like… you’re about to find out. It’s a remarkably loud, sustained, low-toned, vibrating drone. People facing the yard are going to get that sound full on from right across the street until someone figures out how to get them to shut it off, or the rail yard to close/move (haha – that’s a joke of course). For those buyers who are 9-5ers, it shouldn’t impact you so much. But if you work from home in any capacity… maybe invest in a nice stereo system.

Incidentally, that LIRR station services the very curious route of LIC –> Jamaica, Queens… it would be at least worth the drone if it went directly to Penn Station. The one perk is that we LIC’rs can use the rail’s limited service to get to JFK around 5pm M-F. Woohoo.

Anyway, back to One Hunters Point. The developers also had a party at PS1 congratulating themselves and their initial sales figures. LIC is definitely kicking strong in the market these days, and I’d say despite all the controversy and lack of grocery store, it’s still a decent investment. (Albeit not necessarily a bargain.) So kudos to you One Hunters Point buyers. I wish you great journeys to JFK or wherever else the LIRR droning into your living room decides to take you.