OANA is “sorely disappointed” by HQ2’s departure

Richard Khuzami, president of the Old Astoria Neighborhood Association

For many in the anti-Amazon camp, HQ2’s cancellation was terrific news.

But for those who supported the Amazon deal and the 25,000 jobs it was set to bring, the news was heartbreaking.

The Old Astoria Neighborhood Association believed in the latter. OANA, run by civic leader Richard Khuzami, issued a statement today saying it was “sorely disappointed in the demise of Amazon HQ2.”

“HQ2 would have been one of the greatest catalysts for our economic health in the last 150 years,” the statement reads, “anchoring a growing tech sector that could support the city for the foreseeable future.”

Khuzami was selected by city and state officials to the Community Advisory Committee and Community Partners Committee to give voice to local concerns.

However, OANA remains optimistic about the future of Astoria and Long Island City. From the location and logistics to the strong work ethic of the talent pool, there are many reasons why companies should and will choose to come to western Queens.

“Hundreds of start-ups, small and midsized companies, are coming to LIC/Astoria,” the statement reads, “and the future is bright.”

The civic organization acknowledged that there are still legitimate quality of life and cost of living issues that need to be addressed.

“We must make sure that the business community looks at our neighborhood as friendly to business and growth.”