Kaufman Astoria Studios is set to break ground this June on a $250 million expansion at 34-12 36th St, Astoria, bringing five new soundstages to Queens. The move cements Western Queens as a major production hub in 2024.

Kaufman Astoria Studios, a fixture in Western Queens since 1920, is kicking off construction on its biggest expansion yet this month at 34-12 36th St. The $250 million project will transform a parking lot and industrial parcels into five cutting-edge soundstages, increasing the studio’s overall footprint by 325,000 square feet and creating hundreds of union jobs.

Studio president Hal Rosenbluth told NYC Pulse, “Demand for production space in Queens is through the roof. With these new stages, we’ll make sure big projects don’t have to leave New York.” The expansion, designed by Gluck+ architects, also includes new offices, workshops, and landscaped outdoor areas open to the public on 35th Ave.

Astoria’s community leaders say the studio’s growth cements the neighborhood’s role in the city’s film and TV future. Council Member Tiffany Cabán, whose district includes the site, called the investment “a huge win for local freelancers, caterers, and everyone who keeps these productions running.” Kaufman plans to complete construction by late 2026, with the first shows filming in early 2027.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is the new Kaufman Astoria Studios expansion happening?

The expansion is at Kaufman Astoria Studios’ campus on 34-12 36th St, between 35th and 36th Aves in Astoria, Queens. The new stages will replace studio-owned parking and warehouse space on the block, steps from the M/R subway at Steinway St.

How many jobs will the expansion create for Astoria and Queens residents?

Kaufman Astoria Studios estimates the project will create over 500 union construction jobs and support hundreds of long-term production jobs once the stages open. Local businesses are expected to see increased demand from crews and productions.

When will the new soundstages and facilities open to productions?

Construction on the new stages is planned through late 2026, according to Kaufman. The first TV and film productions are expected to begin filming in the expanded facilities by early 2027, pending no major delays in construction or permitting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Kaufman Astoria Studios expansion taking place?

The expansion is happening at 34-12 36th St, Astoria, Queens, between 35th and 36th Avenues.

How much new space and how many soundstages are being added at Kaufman Astoria Studios?

The project adds five new soundstages and 325,000 square feet to the studio’s footprint.

When will construction on the Kaufman Astoria Studios expansion start and finish?

Construction is scheduled to begin in June 2024 and be completed by late 2026.

How many jobs will the Kaufman Astoria Studios expansion create?

The expansion is expected to create over 500 union construction jobs and support hundreds of long-term production jobs.

When will productions start filming in the new Kaufman Astoria Studios facilities?

The first TV and film productions are expected to begin filming in the expanded facilities by early 2027.

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