STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — A simple question asking “What does Staten Island need more of?” sparked one of the Staten Island Neighbors community’s largest discussions this week, generating hundreds of comments as residents shared everything from serious concerns about quality of life to lighthearted suggestions and nostalgic wishes.
What began as an open-ended conversation quickly evolved into a snapshot of what many Staten Islanders feel the borough is missing.
While opinions varied widely, several themes appeared repeatedly throughout the discussion, highlighting the issues and amenities residents believe would improve life across the Island.
Kindness and Community Topped the Conversation
One of the earliest and most-supported responses wasn’t about a business or development at all—it was simply “Empathy.” That comment quickly prompted a broader conversation about kindness, compassion, and how neighbors treat one another.
Other residents echoed similar sentiments, suggesting Staten Island could benefit from more consideration, civility, and respect between neighbors, while others argued that many Staten Islanders are already considerate, illustrating the differing perspectives within the community.
Residents Share Ideas for Businesses and Entertainment
Many comments focused on businesses and attractions residents would like to see added to the borough.
Suggestions ranged from more activities for children and families to bowling alleys, restaurants, entertainment venues, and additional shopping options. Some residents jokingly suggested more pizzerias and banks, while others expressed nostalgia for businesses that have disappeared over the years.
The discussion reflected both practical ideas and humorous responses, creating a conversation that resonated with longtime residents and newcomers alike.
Transportation and Infrastructure Were Common Themes
Transportation also became a major topic throughout the discussion.
Several residents suggested expanding highway infrastructure, including proposals for additional HOV lanes and long-discussed roadway connections they believe could help reduce congestion throughout the borough. Others debated whether those projects are realistic or likely to happen in the future.
Traffic has remained one of Staten Island’s most frequently discussed quality-of-life issues, making transportation suggestions among the most common responses.
Community Conversation Included Humor and Debate
Like many Staten Island discussions, the conversation blended serious ideas with humor.
Some commenters offered playful suggestions, while others debated topics ranging from development and infrastructure to immigration and the borough’s changing identity. The variety of responses reflected the diverse opinions that make up Staten Island’s community and kept the discussion active throughout the day.
Why It Matters
Questions like these often reveal more than simple wish lists.
They provide insight into what residents believe would improve daily life, whether that’s safer streets, better transportation, stronger community connections, more family activities, or additional local businesses.
The discussion also demonstrated how a single question can generate hundreds of ideas, creating an ongoing conversation about the future of Staten Island and the priorities that matter most to the people who live here.
Join the Community Discussion
What do you think Staten Island needs more of?
Hundreds of Staten Islanders have already shared their opinions, from serious suggestions to humorous answers. Join the conversation and let us know what you think.
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