Port Richmond, Staten Island: Dive into Local Life

Port Richmond, located on Staten Island’s North Shore, is a neighborhood with a population of 16,383. Bordered by Kill van Kull to the north, Clove Road to the east, Forest Avenue to the south, and the Bayonne Bridge to the west, it has a history dating back to the late 1600s and early 1700s. The area is known for its authentic Mexican cuisine, good schools, and transportation options, making it a diverse and friendly community. Port Richmond is one of the oldest neighborhoods on Staten Island and has historical sites reflecting its colonial past.

Map of Port Richmond

Port Richmond’s History

Port Richmond traces its roots back to Giovanni da Verrazzano’s arrival in 1524. Initially an independent village, it thrived as a vital transportation and industrial center on the island during the 19th century. The establishment of Dutch influence by Henry Hudson in 1609 and the subsequent mixed Dutch and French settlement at New Dorp laid the foundation for the community. A cemetery in Port Richmond, serving as the burial ground until 1696, became a focal point around which the village grew.

The Dutch Reform Church, built in the early 18th century and reconstructed in 1824 after a fire, stands as a testament to Port Richmond’s Dutch heritage. The village officially incorporated in 1866, aligning with neighboring Staten Island villages.

Despite its historical significance, Port Richmond’s role as a transportation and industrial hub diminished significantly over the years. Today, it stands as a reminder of its rich past, with the Bayonne Bridge constructed in 1931 and the cessation of ferry service in 1962 marking key milestones in its evolving history.

Demographics of Port Richmond

There are 16,383 residents in Port Richmond, Staten Island, with a median age of 37. The neighborhood is diverse, with a racial makeup of 40.2% White, 16.8% African American, 3.9% Asian, and 1.9% of two or more races. The gender distribution is 48.39% males and 51.61% females. In terms of citizenship, 72.42% are US-born, 16.25% are non-US-born citizens, and 11.33% are non-citizens.

Attractions in Port Richmond

Faber Pool and Park

Faber Pool and Park is a popular recreational area located in Staten Island. The park offers various amenities, including playgrounds, courts, a skate park, and an outdoor swimming pool. The pool, which measures 140 feet by 75 feet, is one of the oldest and largest public pools on Staten Island, having opened on July 15, 1932. The park is situated at Richmond Terrace and has received a high rating for its facilities and location. The outdoor pool is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., with a break for cleaning between 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. This recreational area provides a place for the community to enjoy the outdoors and engage in various activities.

Lenny’s Creations

Lenny’s Creations is a unique art gallery and gift shop located at 16 Rector St, Staten Island, New York. It features custom sculptures of various sizes, made of raw metal. The establishment has received positive ratings and is known for its distinctive offerings, making it a must-visit destination for the entire family. The gallery showcases custom-made sculptures and is a popular attraction in Staten Island, offering a one-of-a-kind artistic experience.

Living in Port Richmond

This neighborhood offers residents an urban suburban mix feel, and most residents own their homes. The area has a diverse population, with many restaurants, coffee shops, and parks, making it a good place for families. The public schools in Port Richmond are above average, and the neighborhood provides good access to public transit, with a transit score of 66.

The area is also known for its accessibility, as daily errands do not require a car. However, the neighborhood has received mixed ratings in terms of crime and safety, housing, and cost of living. The median home value in Port Richmond is $454,652, and the median rent is $1,656. The neighborhood is served by the MTA New York City Transit Staten Island bus system, with several bus stops in the area. Overall, Port Richmond is considered a diverse and family-friendly neighborhood with good access to amenities and public transit.

Education in Port Richmond

Port Richmond is home to several schools. Here are some of them:

Port Richmond High School

• Location: 85 St Josephs Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10302
• Phone: 718-420-2100
• Website: Port Richmond High School
• Programs: Pathways in Technology – Computer Science, Pathways in Technology – Medical Science, Culinary Arts Academy, Collegiate Academy Honors Humanities Institute12

P.S. 20 Port Richmond

• Location: 161 Park Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10302
• Phone: 718-442-4110
• Website: P.S. 20 Port Richmond

P.S. 68 The Port Richmond School for Visionary Learning

• Location: 1625 Forest Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10302
• Phone: 718-816-3377
• Website: P.S. 68 The Port Richmond School for Visionary Learning

These are just a few of the schools in the area. For more information about other schools in Port Richmond, you can visit the NYC Department of Education’s website.

Future Development in Port Richmond, Staten Island

The future development in Port Richmond includes the opening of affordable housing units and ongoing efforts to revitalize the area. A new affordable housing development at the intersection of Castleton and Port Richmond avenues contains 48 units, with a focus on providing housing for households earning 60% of the area median income. 

The area also presents diverse development opportunities, and there are ongoing initiatives to conduct a zoning analysis, guide future development, and address longstanding zoning and transportation concerns along the Richmond Terrace corridor. Additionally, the Port Richmond-Mariners Harbor Brownfield Opportunity Area (BOA) study is being conducted to assess development opportunities in collaboration with the New York State. These efforts indicate a focus on both residential and economic development in the area.

Conclusion

Port Richmond is Staten Island’s story in action. From its colonial beginnings to today’s diverse community, the neighborhood is a snapshot of resilience and growth. Explore the local scene, immerse yourself in cultural events, and witness the authentic vibe. Port Richmond isn’t just a place; it’s a dynamic experience. And with future developments in the pipeline, there’s more to come. Dive in and be part of the real, raw energy that defines Port Richmond, Staten Island.