Kingston Area History – The Brooklyn Invasion and Gentrification

Kingston, NY: A Look at the Changes Between 1995 and 2023

Kingston, New York is a city with a rich history dating back to the 17th century. It was once the capital of New York State, and it still retains much of its historic charm. However, the city has also undergone a number of changes in recent years.

One of the most noticeable changes is the rebirth of the Midtown Business District. The Midtown area had long been rundown and neglected. However, in recent years, there has been a concerted effort to revitalize the area. New businesses have opened, there has been a lot of investment in new infrastructure and it is the hub of many arts and cultural events. As a result, the midtown area is now a vibrant and exciting place to live, work, and visit.

The Arts

Another major change in Kingston is the growth of the arts scene. In the early 90’s, there were a few small art galleries and theaters in the city. However, in recent years, the arts scene has exploded. There are now dozens of galleries, theaters, and performance spaces in Kingston and surrounding area. The city is also home to a number of festivals and events that celebrate the arts.

In addition to the growth of the midtown area and the arts scene, Kingston has also seen a number of other changes in recent years. The city has become more diverse, and there has been a growing focus on sustainability. Kingston is now a LEED-Gold certified city, and it is committed to reducing its environmental impact.

Changes to the Real Estate Market

The real estate market in Kingston has also undergone a number of changes in recent years. In the past, the market was relatively quiet with homes selling for relatively low prices. However, in the past two decades, the market has become increasingly competitive, with home prices rising sharply especially since COVID. This has been due in part to the city’s growing popularity as a destination for young professionals and retirees.

Gentrification

Gentrification has also been a major issue in Kingston in recent years. As the city has become more popular, there has been an influx of new residents with higher incomes. This has led to the displacement of some longtime residents, who can no longer afford to live in the city.

Impact of the Changes

The changes that have taken place in Kingston have had a mixed impact on the city. On the one hand, the revitalization of the midtown area and the growth of the arts scene have made Kingston a more attractive place to live and visit. On the other hand, gentrification has led to the displacement of some longtime residents, and the rising cost of living has made it difficult for some people to afford to live in the city.

Overall, the changes that have taken place in Kingston in recent years have been both positive and negative. The city has become more vibrant and exciting, but it has also become more expensive and exclusive. It remains to be seen how the city will continue to evolve in the years to come.