Legacy of Queens teen lives on at Laurelton street corner

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Carl David Richardson Jr. graduated from St. John’s Prep in Astoria. Photos courtesy of Johann Richardson

Carl David Richardson Jr. graduated from St. John’s Prep in Astoria. Photos courtesy of Johann Richardson

By David Brand

More than six years after his death, a Springfield Gardens teen lives on in the impact he had on friends and family, the work of the foundation created in his honor and, now, in the New York City street map.

The city formally designated the corner of Merrick Boulevard and 228th Street as Carl David Richardson Foundation Way at a special ceremony Saturday. His mother, Johann Richardson, said the dedication cements her son’s legacy as a tutor, a caring friend and a beloved family member.

“Losing a child is never easy, but I used to cry and say, ‘They’re going to forget about him,’” said Richardson’s mother. “Now six years later, we’re doing this and he will never be forgotten.”

Carl was stabbed to death during an argument in a barber shop in 2014. After his death, the Richardsons formed a foundation to educate people on how to resolve conflicts peacefully. The CDR Foundation funds conflict resolution, intervention programs and workshops.

Carl graduated from St. Johns Prep High School in Astoria in June 2012. He enrolled in Nassau Community College in 2013 to study liberal arts. He also worked at an H&M in the Sunrise Mall.

Carl David Richardson’s family hold she street sign designating the corner of Merrick Boulevard and 228th Street in his honor.

Carl David Richardson’s family hold she street sign designating the corner of Merrick Boulevard and 228th Street in his honor.

His dream was to be an occupational therapist and he began volunteering at PS 46 in Bayside.

Borough President-elect Donovan Richards said Carl will serve as an inspiration for younger generations.

“A young man who came from their community, who had so much promise but unfortunately was taken from us too early,” Richards said. “Young people going to this corner store when school opens up are going to walk by this sign everyday and they’re going to learn about Carl David Richardson Jr. and the foundation that was built in this community.”

He called on residents to fight against injustice, not against their neighbors.

“We gotta learn to love one another instead of turning on each other,” Richards said. “Let’s fight against inequality. Let’s fight against police brutality.