EAST ELMHURST — A much-needed middle school will rise on an empty lot on Astoria Boulevard, according to City Councilwoman Julissa Ferreras-Copeland.
The city plans to build the 600-seat school at 111th Street and Astoria Blvd. pending approval from the city council, Ferreras-Copeland said.
"Constructing schools to meet the needs of my community has been a challenge and a priority for me since day one," she said.
"Every student deserves a beautiful space to learn."
It's not clear how much the city paid for the 33,400-square-foot lot, but they put out a proposal for the site last fall.
After approval from the City Council, it will move into the design phase, Ferreras-Copeland said.
Parents praised the new school, which is in one of the most overcrowded districts in the city.
"As a mother of a fifth grader I am excited to hear about the new middle school coming to our neighborhood," said Lorinda Hooks, President of the East Elmhurst-Corona Civic Association.