Jamaica, New York

Jamaica is a neighborhood of Queens, a borough of New York City in the state of New York. The name Jamaica refers not to the island nation, but rather is most likely derived from an Algonquin or Lenape word for "beaver." Jamaica is a densely populated area, with nearly 217,000 residents and has long been a market and transportation center for the Queens area, particularly along the main thoroughfare, Jamaica Avenue. Jamaica Station, completed in 2003, provides access to several subway lines, the Long Island Rail Road, and Airtrain connection to John F. Kennedy International Airport.

When Dutch settlers established their new community of Rustdorp near Beaver Pond in 1656, the trading trail that would become Jamaica Avenue had long been in use by Native American groups. Renamed Jamaica by the British in 1664, the town was the seat of Queens County from 1683 to 1788. A church and a courthouse were built, along with grist and saw mills, and a tannery. Agriculture and hunting were the chief occupations, however, and produce and goods were traded and transported along the highway, which connected Queens to Brooklyn. By the mid-to-late 19th century, the main avenue had become a toll road, and railroad, elevated streetcar and horse car lines increased transportation options. Inexpensive commuting and residential development drew workers from the city, and the population boomed. Jamaica became a center for retail and commerce, opening the first self-service supermarket in 1930. In the 20th century, Jamaica has also developed in the education and health-care industries. York College, part of the City University of New York, opened its Jamaica campus in 1971, and Chapin Home for the Aging, founded in 1869, has had a presence in Jamaica since 1912. Although the late 20th century saw a decline as major retailers moved out of the area, recent rezoning plans and construction of mixed-use commercial buildings such as One Jamaica Center are helping to revitalize the neighborhood.

Jamaica's active construction and transportation industries have put workers at risk for asbestos exposure and asbestos-related diseases such as mesothelioma. We provide information about mesothelioma treatment options in and around Jamaica at the bottom of this page. Mesothelioma attorneys may also be able to assist you if you or a loved one were exposed to asbestos in Jamaica.

Large Jobsites in Jamaica where Asbestos Exposure Occurred

The Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance has compiled information obtained from a number of sources to identify the following large job sites in Jamaica where asbestos exposure was known to have occurred. These sites are listed below. Click on them to get more detailed information.

Other Jobsites in Jamaica where Asbestos Exposure Occurred

These additional jobsites in Jamaica, NY have been identified as harboring asbestos containing materials. These sites, at one point in their history, were known to have exposed a variety of tradesmen to asbestos. We will be documenting in more detail how asbestos exposure occurred at these sites in the future on this web site.

Mesothelioma Cancer Centers Near Jamaica, NY

For your convenience we have compiled a list of mesothelioma cancer centers that are located within a 100 mile radius of Jamaica, NY. Please click on a cancer center link to obtain more information about the clinical programs offered, professional designations, areas of expertise and how to contact the center.

Mesothelioma Doctors Near Jamaica, NY

For your convenience we have compiled a list of mesothelioma doctors who are located within a 100 mile radius of Jamaica, NY. Please click on a doctor link to obtain more information about his/her background, areas of expertise, professional affiliations and office locations.