Jamaica Bay Research Vessel Makes a Splash With Queens Kids

Councilmemebr Costa Constantinides stands next to the CUNY 1 vessel. Photo courtesy of Councilmember Costa Constantinides.

By Christina Carrega

High school students from Astoria and southern Queens will be able to get hands-on marine life education in Jamaica Bay this spring thanks to Councilmember Costa Constantinides.

Constantinides, chair of the Committee on the Environmental Protection, pledged $1000 to a pilot program that will enable more than 40 students to get ecolife experience onboard the City University of New York’s research vessel.

The CUNY 1, an aluminum catamaran operated by the Science + Resilience Institute at Jamaica Bay and docked at Kingsborough Community College, will give students the opportunity to get out of the classroom for a unique learning experience.

“We have a golden opportunity to connect New York City students with our waterways and the wildlife that inhabit them,” Constantinides said. “Right now, even those who live by the water may not fully value how much it impacts their lives, especially as well feel the effects of climate change.

Constantinides represents the 22nd Council District, which includes his native Astoria along with parts of Jackson Heights, Woodside, and East Elmhurst.