hillside innitiatives
BABSHA intends to re-envision what it means to communicate the stories that began and arrived at Jamaica-Hillside.
Storefront illustrations are essential to district marketing.
Our goal is to create versatile storytelling that’ll propel our community to feel not only familiar but connected to businesses that they’ve heard of but never walked into.
All illustrations by @abontii.art
The 169th Hillside Plaza Proposal
Let's create a new space for the community
Hillside, Jamaica, NY, is a culturally diverse community, home to many hardworking and often under-recognized local businesses. To support economic growth, strengthen neighborhood identity, and enhance public space, we propose the development of a pedestrian plaza between 169th Street and Homelawn Street.
This plaza will create a welcoming and safe gathering space that encourages community connection, cultural expression, and active public life.By transforming the street into a pedestrian-friendly zone, the project aims to increase foot traffic, boost sales for local businesses, improve walkability, and reduce air and noise pollution.
Designed to serve residents of all ages, the plaza will function as a community hub, promoting social engagement, small-business visibility, public health, and neighborhood pride.
Illustrations by: Mayisha Sohel (@abontii.art)
