Parker Towers demolishing fountain

From Forest Hills Post:

Parker Towers, the large 1960s development sandwiched between Queens Blvd and Yellowstone Boulevard, has long been known for the giant fountain in the middle of the courtyard.

The fountain has traditionally been a focal point since it is surrounded by the three 22-story high-rises that make up the complex.

The fountain, however, is now being demolished. According to a spokesman for the Parker Towers, the demolition began yesterday and will be complete in two weeks.

The plan is to replace it with greenspace. Construction will begin in a few weeks and is estimated to be finished in a few months.

However, according to local historian and Forest Hills resident Michael Perlman, residents are not pleased with this decision and neither is he.

Adios, La Mesa Verde

"A resident contact me about the impending destruction of the interior garden of this should-have-been-landmarked apartment complex.

In 2008, a Request for Evaluation was submitted to landmark Henry Atterbury Smith’s “La Mesa Verde Apartment” built in 1926 in Jackson Heights. It was rejected. I have attached an historical summary.

In 2008, the property owner cut down the trees and applied to make the interior garden (that already had a driveway through it) a parking lot. Now, six years later, then sent the attached “Notice of Application” to the rental tenants. We are down to the 11th hour. I have also included some photos of the development.

Thought this would be of interest. The residents have to vote by about April 15th…" - Anonymous