Grant City: A Hidden Gem on Staten Island

Grant City, situated on the East Shore of Staten Island, New York City, is bordered by Dongan Hills to the north and New Dorp to the south. To the west, it is separated from Todt Hill by a high cliff along Richmond Road. Originally known as Frenchtown due to its significant population of French residents, the community was renamed Grant City in honor of U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant by John C. Thompson, a builder. This renaming occurred despite the unpopularity of the Civil War on Staten Island, which witnessed anti-draft riots in July 1863.

Grant City’s streets pay homage to historical figures such as Lincoln Avenue, Fremont Avenue, Adams Avenue, Colfax Avenue, and Greeley Avenue, reflecting the area’s rich history and the community’s efforts to commemorate American leaders. Significant development occurred in Grant City during the 1950s, marked by the construction of numerous small, one-family homes. This growth accelerated following the opening of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge in November 1964, which enhanced access to the island from Brooklyn.

In August 1990, an F0 tornado caused widespread damage in Grant City, particularly along Fremont Avenue, where trees over 100 years old were toppled.

Notable Attraction in Grant City

St. Christopher’s R.C. Church: Originally bought as a mail-order building from a Sears and Roebuck catalog in the late 1950s, the large church that stands there today was built in 1990 and blessed in 1991.

Educational Opportunities

Here are some of the key educational institutions in Grant City:

• P.S. 52 John C. Thompson, George L. Egbert I.S. 2. 
• New Dorp High School.

Grant City Demographics

Population and Diversity: Grant City boasts a diverse population, reflecting various ancestries. While Italian and Ukrainian ancestries are notably present, the neighborhood also showcases a range of cultural backgrounds.

Residential Makeup: The housing landscape in Grant City is a blend of owner-occupied and rented properties, with a mix of homes constructed between 1940-1969 and 1970-1999, providing diverse options for residents.

Occupational Distribution: In terms of employment, Grant City showcases a varied occupational profile. A significant portion of the working population is engaged in executive, management, and professional occupations, while others work in sales and service roles, contributing to the neighborhood’s economic diversity.

Transportation Options in Grant City

Staten Island Railway (SIR): Grant City benefits from a station on the SIR line, facilitating rail service to various parts of Staten Island and offering connections to the Staten Island Ferry for convenient access to Manhattan.

NYCT Buses: The Grant City area is serviced by several bus routes, including the S51 and S81, providing connections to different parts of Staten Island and enhancing local transportation accessibility.

Taxis and Rideshare: Residents and visitors in Grant City have access to multiple taxi companies and rideshare options like Uber and Lyft, ensuring flexible transportation choices within the neighborhood and beyond.

Ferries: Public transportation connections enable easy access to the Staten Island Ferry from Grant City, offering a direct link to Manhattan for commuters and travelers.

Biking and Walking: Grant City features walkable sidewalks and streets, complemented by the availability of Citi Bike bike-sharing stations in the area, promoting eco-friendly transportation alternatives for residents and visitors.

Private Vehicles: Residents of Grant City enjoy convenient access to major roads and highways, including the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, facilitating travel between Staten Island and Brooklyn, as well as other parts of New York City.

In summary, Grant City provides a comprehensive array of public transportation options, including rail, bus, and ferry services, along with access to taxis, rideshare services, biking, and private vehicles, ensuring convenient and diverse transportation solutions for its residents and visitors.

Shopping and Dining in Grant City

Grant City in Staten Island offers a vibrant shopping and dining scene, catering to the diverse tastes and preferences of residents and visitors alike. The neighborhood boasts a variety of local businesses, shops, and eateries, providing an array of options for shopping and dining experiences. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal at a cozy diner, a quick bite at a charming café, or a night out at a trendy restaurant, Grant City has something to offer for every palate.

Additionally, the neighborhood’s commercial presence ensures that daily conveniences are within easy reach, with grocery stores, specialty shops, and boutiques providing residents with all the essentials they need. From exploring unique boutiques to savoring delicious cuisines from around the world, Grant City provides an exciting destination for shopping and dining adventures on Staten Island.

Real Estate Trends in Grant City

In recent times, the real estate market in Grant City has exhibited fluctuations. Key trends include changes in the median sale price, with a notable decline observed in Q1 2023 followed by a slight increase in January 2024. Similarly, the price per square foot experienced fluctuations during this period.

Transaction volume also saw variations, with a growth in the number of assets sold in Q1 2023 compared to the previous year, while January 2024 witnessed a decrease in the number of homes sold. Grant City was characterized as a seller’s market in September 2023, indicating higher demand than available inventory, leading to homes typically spending around 102 days on the market before being sold.

Conclusion

Grant City is known for its historical significance, residential charm, and strong sense of community. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a visitor, Grant City offers a distinct blend of comfort, convenience, and neighborly atmosphere. Its rich history adds depth to the neighborhood’s character, while its residential appeal makes it an attractive place to live.

With a focus on community engagement, Grant City fosters connections among its residents, creating a welcoming environment for all. Overall, Grant City stands out as a hidden gem in Staten Island, providing a unique and inviting experience for those who call it home or explore its streets.