From the “Cityscapes” series. 

There is little indication of its past, but 150 years ago the narrow strip of land on the East River waterfront was the most exclusive neighborhood in Queens. As the city grew, the sumptuous estates and public promenade were replaced by factories, a gas plant, and by Big Allis - the Con Edison generating power station that provides the Queens waterfront with its most unattractive feature. More recently, artists escaping high prices established studios throughout Long Island City and were followed by businesses and residents. The old neighborhood is once again in transition. Big Allis still casts its shadow.