LIC's Avalon Riverview opens

Real Estate Weekly, Feb 20, 2002

A 372-unit luxury high-rise rental building -- Avalon Riverview -- has opened its doors in Long Island City, and is expected to play a major role in the revitalization of Queens West.

Avalon Riverview is Avalon Bay Communities' first residential development project in New York City, though the company has developed communities in the New York metro area, including Bronxville, New Rochelle, Edgewater and Jersey City.

"AvalonBay Communities focuses on developing communities in premier locations that are close to transportation, shopping and entertainment," says Tracey Appelbaum, vice president of development. "Avalon Riverview provides luxury housing with spectacular views just across the river from Manhattan, and will play a cornerstone role as Queens West becomes a vibrant new community."

Located at 2-01 50th Avenue, Avalon Riverview contains studio, one-, two-and three-bedroom homes. Six duplex floor plans are also available. Every apartment features parquet floors and corner or bay windows with full height glass or balconies that maximize East River and Manhattan views.

Luxury kitchens contain high-quality Shaker-style cabinetry, granite countertops and breakfast bars, ceramic tile flooring, high-end appliances and garbage disposals. (Riverview is one of the first buildings to offer garbage disposals, which have just become legal in New York City.) Full-size or stackable washers/dryers are standard in every apartment.

The lobby has a 24-hour concierge, large seating area, mailroom, package room, and storage for dry cleaning drop off and pick up. Other amenities include a Clubroom for entertaining or meetings; a half-acre landscaped roof garden with a puffing green and East River and Manhattan skyline views; and a state-of-the-art fitness center. A complete business center features Internet access, copier and fax and a conference room. Indoor parking is available with secured access to the garage from the street and the first floor lobby.

Avalon Riverview is located conveniently two blocks from the Number 7 subway and a five-minute ride to Grand Central Station. There is also easy access to the Queens/Midtown Tunnel, Long Island Expressway, Long Island Railroad and both LaGuardia and JFK airports.

Apartments are currently available for lease, and residents will occupy apartments April 1, though construction is not expected to be fully completed until the fourth quarter of 2002. Prices range from $1,635 for studios to $6,500 for three-bedroom duplexes and are expected to average approximately $2,970 per home. The first month's rent is free on select apartment homes. The leasing office is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., and can be reached by calling (212) 949-7800.