An abandoned Rite Aid building in New York City’s Astoria neighborhood has become a refuge for homeless migrants and drug users, posing serious safety risks to the community. Located at 47-07 Broadway, the 25,058-square-foot structure has turned into a haven for middle-aged men, many of whom do not speak English.
The roof of the building is cluttered with an array of items, including flags, bicycles, and garbage. Furniture has also been set up, where the new “residents” lounge. A local woman, speaking anonymously, described the scene as having a “real ‘Mad Max’ vibe.”
Neighbors have reported numerous safety concerns, including public drunkenness, drug transactions, and urination. One individual was seen flashing an eight-inch knife when approached by reporters, while another grabbed what seemed to be a loose table leg.
The building’s proximity to William Cullen Bryant High School adds to the danger. Reporters witnessed a man urinating in front of a group of teenagers, prompting outrage from the community. A lifelong resident called the situation “f*cking preposterous,” and another woman described it as “absurd and dangerous.” She noted that children play on a pile of wood near the building, which contains exposed nails.
Since January 2024, the city’s non-emergency line has received 163 complaints related to the building. These include 69 reports of a homeless encampment, 36 complaints about public drinking, and 11 reports of public urination. City officials claim the site was cleaned on June 8 and that the men were offered services, but residents are not convinced of any lasting change.
A frustrated neighbor remarked, “There’s always a drunk passed out here — ambulance, every other day here to pick one or two up.” The frequent need for emergency services strains city resources and raises concerns about the availability of these services for other emergencies.
Residents continue to call for more effective action from city officials to address the ongoing issues and restore safety and order to their neighborhood.
