South Jamaica, Queens

South Jamaica, Queens is a residential neighborhood located in the borough of Queens in New York City. It is part of Queens Community Board 12, which also includes Hollis, St. Albans, Springfield Gardens, Baisley Pond Park, Rochdale Village, and JFK International Airport.

History

South Jamaica is named for its location south of Jamaica, the major original European settlement in Queens. The "Jamaica" in these names is derived from the Lenape word Yameco, meaning "beaver", which was traded in the area. South Jamaica developed as a residential neighborhood with the building of the Long Island Rail Road in the mid-19th century, and the area was incorporated into the Greater New York City in 1898.

Geography

South Jamaica is located in southeastern Queens, bounded by the Van Wyck Expressway to the west, the Long Island Rail Road to the north, Rochdale Village to the east, and Baisley Pond Park to the south.

Demographics

South Jamaica is a predominantly African American neighborhood, with a significant number of Caribbean American residents. The area is known for its cultural diversity, with numerous ethnic groups residing in the neighborhood.

Transportation

South Jamaica is served by several New York City Subway lines, including the , , and trains. The neighborhood is also served by several bus routes operated by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority.

Education

South Jamaica is part of the New York City Department of Education's District 28. The neighborhood is home to several public and private schools, including August Martin High School and York College.

Notable people

Several notable individuals have hailed from South Jamaica, including rapper 50 Cent, NBA player Rafer Alston, and civil rights activist W. E. B. Du Bois.

See also

• List of Queens neighborhoods
• History of New York City