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Issue 011 • April 2026


The Downtown Jamaica Partnership manages, beautifies, and promotes Downtown Jamaica, Queens, also known as DJQ. Got an event or promotion coming up? Send us the details so we can share it on our website, social media, and this newsletter.

We're Hiring!


We are looking for a Marketing, Events and Communications Manager. Join our team and help shape the future of Downtown Jamaica!


Upcoming Events

Mobile Hours with BP Richards

April 20, 2026, 12 PM - 2 PM

Queens Public Library at Arverne 3-12 Beach 54th St, Arvene NY


Need help with government services or want to connect with Borough President Donovan Richards' office? His constituent services team is hosting mobile hours at the Arverne branch of the Queens Public Library. Meet the team, share your issue, and get the assistance you need. RSVP required.

Press Fast Forward Exhibition Opening

April 24th, 6PM

161-04 Jamaica Avenue


JCAL invites you to the opening reception of Press Fast Forward, a new art exhibit exploring how technology shapes creativity, identity, and imagination in an age of digital acceleration. Curated by William Bentley, the exhibition features painting, photography, textiles, and mixed media from 11 artists reflecting on the shift from analog to digital, from dream to reality. Meet the artists and view spectacular work that's joyful, haunting, and thought-provoking.

Concert: Riddim Section with Chembo Corniel

April 29th, 8PM

153-10 Jamaica Avenue


JCAL's music series continues with a highly anticipated Riddim Section concert headlined by Wilson "Chembo" Corniel, one of the best hard-hitting, versatile percussionists around. Riddim Section is a monthly concert series exploring the music of the African, Caribbean, and Latin American diasporas. Mantanzas. Don't miss this celebration of rhythm and culture at Jamaica Performing Arts Center.

Second Lives: The Changing Buildings of Jamaica, Queens

May 2nd, 11AM

The walk starts at the Jamaica Center Station


Join a walk exploring the “second lives” of Jamaica, Queens’ buildings, led by Deborah Rojas, Principal of Rojas AP. From theaters turned churches to hospitals transformed into housing, this guided walk uncovers how familiar spaces reflect the neighborhood’s evolving community, economy, and institutions. RSVP is required and space is limited, so don’t miss this chance to experience Jamaica’s history hidden in plain sight.

Museum in Motion: Art History in Jamaica

May 2nd, 1PM

Meeting Location will be Emailed


Join a walk exploring 50 years of art history in Jamaica, led by Emily Verla Bovino and Meral Agish of York College CUNY alongside local artists from the Southeast Queens Artist Alliance. Beginning at York College and tracing the legacy of the borough’s first art museum, this walk highlights public art, cultural spaces, and the neighborhood’s creative evolution. RSVP is required and capacity is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot!



Community Resources

OMNY Tap and Ride Transition

MetroCard sales ended on December 31, 2025, marking the full transition to OMNY's contactless Tap and Ride system. You can still use the balance on your existing MetroCard until it expires, but all new purchases and refills must be done through OMNY cards, phones, or contactless credit/debit cards. OMNY cards can be reloaded with cash or coins at subway vending machines or participating retailers like Walgreens and CVS. 




Business Resources


NYS Projects Pop-Up Series: MWBE Opportunities

April 16, 2026, 9 AM - 1 PM

Helen Marshall Cultural Center 120-55 Queens Blvd Kew Gardens, NY


Learn about MWBE and small business opportunities with major New York State projects happening in Queens, including Hard Rock/Metropolitan Park, MTA Queens Borough Based Jail, RailWorks Transit, Resorts World, and Roy Wilkins Park. Connect directly with project teams and discover how your business can get involved.

Boots to Business Reboot Online, New York, NY

April 16 & 17 8:30AM-12:30PM

Online


Boots to Business Reboot is an entrepreneurial education and training program offered by the U.S. Small Business Administration for veterans of all eras, Active Duty Service members (including National Guard and Reserve), and their spouses. The course provides an overview of entrepreneurship and applicable business ownership fundamentals to help military-connected entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses. Eligible participants receive valuable training at no cost.

JFK Terminal 4 Annual Job Fair

April 22, 2026, 10 AM - 2 PM

JFK Terminal 4 Arrivals Hall


Looking for a career opportunity at JFK? Terminal 4 is hosting its Annual Job Fair with companies like Delta, ABM, Hudson, HMSHost, Swissport, and more who are actively hiring. Meet with diverse partners and explore positions across hospitality, retail, operations, and customer service. Bring multiple copies of your resume and be ready to learn about each company's culture. Public transportation is encouraged.

GDJC MWBE Accelerator Accepting Applications


Greater Jamaica Development Corporation is accepting applications for its 10-month MWBE Accelerator program. Learn to scale your business, win contracts, and connect with corporate mentors and decision makers. Eligible businesses must have two years of operations and be formally registered.

Promote your Business with a DJQ Banner

Sponsoring a DJQ banner is a great way to boost your business's visibility across Downtown Jamaica. With banners displayed throughout the district, your business will gain exposure to thousands of daily visiors, commuters, and residents.


Meet Me in Jamaica: An Oral History Project


If there's anything that's constant in NYC, it's change - and DJQ is no exception. Sharing our stories is one way to preserve our history. We're gathering memories and stories about Downtown Jamaica Queens and we want to hear yours!