The GatewayJFK Business Improvement District is proud to announce two significant milestones that mark a transformative new chapter for the organization: the appointment of its most diverse and representative Board of Directors to date, and the award of a $75,000 grant from NYC Small Business Services (SBS)—the largest in GatewayJFK’s history.
The FY26 Single District Small BID Support Grant, awarded by SBS, will empower GatewayJFK to expand its programming and implement high-impact initiatives, including district-wide beautification, new signage, and quality-of-life improvements that directly support businesses and residents in the district.
“This is more than just a financial boost—it’s a vote of confidence from the City in the direction we’re heading,” said James Johnson, Executive Director of GatewayJFK. “With a newly energized board that reflects the true diversity of our community, we’re taking bold steps to make GatewayJFK cleaner, safer, and more connected. When you drive to get to JFK International Airport, we want to make sure you feel the presence of the GatewayJFK Business Improvement District.”
To celebrate and strategize for the future, the new board convened at the iconic TWA Hotel at JFK Airport—a symbol of historic innovation and a fitting backdrop for GatewayJFK’s revitalized mission.
Debbie Cross, Chair of the Board, commercial property owner, and the first woman ever elected to lead GatewayJFK, shared: “The new board of the GatewayJFK BID is energized and committed to driving positive change within our district. Since our recent restructuring, we have implemented a range of initiatives aimed at revitalizing our area, fostering economic growth, and enhancing the overall quality of life for our residents and business owners. Our board members bring a wealth of experience and diverse perspectives, allowing us to approach challenges with innovative solutions.”
New York City Council Majority Whip Selvena N. Brooks-Powers, who chairs the Council’s Transportation Committee and serves on the Small Business Committee, praised the momentum: “The Gateway JFK Business Improvement District is a critical economic driver for Southeast Queens, and I’m proud to see this strategic investment from SBS fueling its continued growth. With a revitalized board bringing fresh leadership, bold ideas, and a deep commitment to community impact, Gateway JFK is poised to make the district stronger, cleaner, and safer than ever before. This is more than just a funding milestone — it’s what I hope will be a turning point, and I look forward to continuing our collaboration as Gateway JFK delivers meaningful results for businesses, workers, and residents across the community.”
Assemblymember Khaleel Anderson, whose district includes the GatewayJFK area, added: “I am optimistic our neighbors at the GatewayJFK BID are off to a grand new start. This $75,000 investment from SBS is a new step forward. I am excited to see what GatewayJFK BID has in store and the work we can accomplish for Assembly District 31 in this new chapter.”
GatewayJFK has also been working closely with Ty Hankerson, Chief of Staff to New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, to secure additional funding and resources to combat illegal dumping in the BID. This advocacy builds on a growing public-private collaboration aimed at tackling persistent quality-of-life issues in Southeast Queens.
Navin Jaimangal, Vice Chairperson of GatewayJFK and a longtime commercial property owner, echoed the enthusiasm: “As a new board member and commercial property owner for 20 years, I am excited about the direction of the board and the new voices that are being heard. It’s all hands on deck from here.”
Veronica Hicks, 2nd Vice Chair and residential homeowner emphasized the importance of representation: “As a board member and residential homeowner, I welcome the diversity and the positive direction the board is going in. Thank you to our Executive Director and his administration for their dedication and hard work. It’s important to have influence where you own property.”
Tom Grech, President and CEO of the Queens Chamber of Commerce and ex-officio member of the GatewayJFK board, added: “We are very happy to learn of some funding to the GatewayJFK BID from SBS,” said Tom Grech. “As an ex-officio member of the board, this is a great time to have increased focus on the organization with new leadership and now funding.”
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. stated: “Fueled by the historic $20 billion redevelopment of Kennedy Airport, Southeast Queens is in the midst of an economic renaissance. I’m grateful to NYC Small Business Services for partnering with us to fuel that growth through this vital $75,000 grant,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr.
“I look forward to working with GatewayJFK, NYC SBS and all our partners to continue boosting Southeast Queens and enhancing economic opportunities of all kinds here.”
