The groundbreaking ceremony for the second phase of Flushing Commons was held on the 16th, attended by several elected officials, developers, and community representatives. The second phase will include residential, commercial, and office space, as well as a new public plaza and a brand-new Flushing YMCA. (Photo by Dai Cihui)

According to information released by the development team, the second phase of the project has a total area of ​​over 600,000 square feet, including a new YMCA headquarters of 66,000 square feet, approximately 132,000 square feet of retail and dining space, 123,000 square feet of office space, and an 18-story residential tower with 156 units.

Helen Lee, Executive Vice President of F&T Group, said that Flushing’s downtown area is densely populated and commercial, and has long lacked sufficient public space. She hopes that the new plaza and outdoor theater will become a place for residents to gather and hold community events after completion.

The new YMCA headquarters is a key focus of Phase Two of the project. Sharon Greenberger, President and CEO of the Greater New York YMCA, stated that the Flushing YMCA is about to celebrate its 100th anniversary and is currently one of the most frequently used YMCA locations in the city. The new facility features an eight-lane, 25-yard swimming pool, which will be the largest YMCA pool in the city upon completion. The new arena meets high school competition standards and is approximately 40% larger than the existing arena, and will also include space for community activities and table tennis.

City Councilwoman Sandra Ung, a former board member and current member of the Flushing YMCA, stated that she has long observed seniors, families, children, and new immigrants using the facilities. She said this project, after years of coordination and involvement from multiple city council members, has finally entered the construction phase. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards added that as Flushing continues to see increased residential and commercial development, public spaces and community services should be expanded accordingly.

State Assemblyman Ron Kim recalled that after immigrating to the United States with his family about 40 years ago, his father took him to the Flushing YMCA to learn to swim and play tennis. He said that for many immigrant families, the YMCA is not just a sports venue, but also an important space for children to integrate into the community.

Greenberg stated that the main structure and shell of the new YMCA building are expected to be completed in the spring of 2028, followed by interior work, with a target opening in 2029. The first phase of Flushing Plaza has already completed residential, commercial, and office spaces; the second phase, once construction begins, will add the large public plaza and community facilities originally planned.

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