Parking Space Controversy Surrounds Rally in Forest Hills Gardens

Residents of Forest Hills Gardens were unexpectedly required to move their vehicles from the area on Sunday in preparation for a rally featuring prominent mayoral candidate Zoran Mamdani, along with Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

Local residents expressed frustration over an impromptu parking ban instituted by the New York City Police Department just 24 hours before the event at Forest Hills Stadium, which was organized in support of the Democratic Socialists.

In a statement released on Saturday, the 112th Precinct of the NYPD informed residents: “Due to the nature of tomorrow’s event at Forest Hills Stadium, please remove all vehicles from the stadium area by 9 am.” However, it didn’t specify that this was related to a political event featuring Mamdani, Sanders, and Ocasio-Cortez.

Jenna Kabuto, a resident of the area, criticized the last-minute notice as “totally unacceptable.” She questioned why the community wasn’t informed sooner, especially since a public gathering permit had been issued. “Where does the planning and coordination take place?” Kabuto remarked.

Another resident, Max Londoner, condemned the situation, calling it a “mess.” He asked, “Are you kidding me? What about people who aren’t at home?” He further expressed concern about the appropriateness of hosting such events at Forest Hills Tennis Stadium, particularly so close to Election Day.

This parking ban could worsen relations among local residents, the city, and the stadium itself. Just last week, the Forest Hills Garden Corporation filed a federal lawsuit against the city, claiming that police had “unconstitutionally” occupied private property during summer concerts to boost the stadium’s revenue.

The organization, which has around 4,000 members, is seeking compensation for this alleged occupancy. In response to current events, the NYPD stated that they would enhance their presence around the stadium to ensure safety for all involved.

Kabuto mentioned to the Post that the lawsuit is precisely related to this issue, claiming, “They are occupying our streets again.” She expressed that such actions have put her in a difficult position.

Sunday also marked the beginning of early voting for local elections. Mamdani is running against Republican rival Curtis Sliwa and former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who is taking an independent approach.

Tickets for the sold-out event at the stadium, dubbed “New York is not for sale,” were gone quickly, with the venue capable of holding up to 15,000 attendees. Last month, Sanders hosted a similarly themed event at Brooklyn College, where Mamdani was present as a guest.