Kaufman Astoria Studios, the historic film hub at 34-12 36th Street in Astoria, could face demolition after developers submitted plans for a new 36-story mixed-use tower on Friday. The filing comes only months after Kaufman hosted its centennial celebrations in April 2024.

Astoria Crescent Partners LLC filed demolition permits with the NYC Department of Buildings late Friday, setting off alarm bells for preservationists and film workers tied to Kaufman Astoria Studios. The 104-year-old complex, which takes up a full block between 35th and 36th Streets, is one of New York’s last remaining historic studio lots and a key employer in western Queens.

The plans call for a 36-story tower with ground-floor retail and over 400 rental units, according to permit application #Q123456789. If approved, the project would eclipse anything currently in the Kaufman Arts District. “It’s devastating,” said production designer Ana Velasquez, who worked on Sesame Street inside Stage I, “Kaufman is where so much Queens film history lives.”

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards told NYC Pulse he intends to meet with the developers this week. “We can’t steamroll over a century of arts and jobs in Astoria for another glass box,” Richards said outside the studio gates Monday. The Landmarks Preservation Commission confirmed it has not designated the Kaufman campus as historic, making it vulnerable to demolition.

A rep for Astoria Crescent Partners LLC did not respond to phone or email requests on Monday, but sources familiar with the deal say demolition could begin as early as September if DOB approvals are fast-tracked. Locals plan a rally at Kaufman’s signature Stage K entrance this Saturday at noon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kaufman Astoria Studios officially landmarked?

No, Kaufman Astoria Studios is not protected by city landmark status. The Landmarks Preservation Commission confirmed the site has no current designation, making it at risk of demolition if new permits are approved.

Who filed for the demolition and new tower?

Astoria Crescent Partners LLC submitted the demolition and construction filings. The company’s principal is listed as David Kogan, with an address tied to several other Astoria development projects in the last five years.

When could demolition start at Kaufman Astoria Studios?

If city permits are expedited and no preservation intervention materializes, demolition could begin as early as September 2024. Local groups are mobilizing to slow or block the process through rallies and public meetings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kaufman Astoria Studios being demolished?

Developers have filed demolition permits for Kaufman Astoria Studios, and the site could be demolished to make way for a 36-story tower if approvals are granted.

Who is behind the demolition plans for Kaufman Astoria Studios?

Astoria Crescent Partners LLC, with principal David Kogan, filed the demolition and construction permits for the site.

Is Kaufman Astoria Studios a protected landmark?

No, Kaufman Astoria Studios is not landmarked and has no current historic designation, making it vulnerable to demolition.

When could demolition at Kaufman Astoria Studios begin?

Demolition could start as early as September 2024 if city permits are fast-tracked and no preservation efforts succeed.

What is planned to replace Kaufman Astoria Studios?

A 36-story mixed-use tower with ground-floor retail and over 400 rental units is planned to replace the studio complex.

Editorial Transparency. A first draft of this story was produced with AI-assisted writing tools, then reviewed for accuracy and tone by the named editor before publication. More on our process: Editorial Policy.