Clifton/Concord
The Staten Island Railway, which cuts across the island from Tottenville to the Staten Island Ferry, makes stops in Clifton and Concord, which are generally considered the same neighborhood. Little surprise then that the area is a popular place to live for anyone who works in Manhattan. (Added bonus: many homes here have excellent views of Manhattan’s skyline.) The population is diverse and includes a large number of Liberian immigrants. You’ll find a wide array of places of worship as well as assorted ethnic eateries.
It’s a community that offers lots of activities, lifestyle resources and outdoor spaces. The Carter Center on Broad Street features a state-of-the-art technology center and sports facilities like basketball courts, as well as athletic and educational classes and workshops. Clove Lakes Park, a popular picnic destination in the warmer weather, is a quick bus ride away. Also, the neighborhood runs up to Eibs Pond Park, a protected wetlands area that’s home to lots of wildlife and plants. The Staten Island Children’s Museum and the botanical gardens, both in Snug Harbor, are a short drive away. Also, there are several ports in the area, like the Homeport, a decommissioned US Naval Base where military vessels still dock when they come to town.
Convenience is the name of the game when it comes to shopping. Nearby is Hylan Boulevard, a vibrant thoroughfare lined with expansive plazas featuring familiar chain stores, like CVS and Stop & Shop, Kmart and TJ Max, independent businesses, from apparel shops to tattoo studios and hair salons, and some of the island’s most popular old-school Italian eateries. Many residents also shop at the Staten Island Mall, which is about a 30 minute drive. It’s home to chain stores like Macy’s, H&M, Sears, Sephora and Gymboree, as well as high end retailers like Armani Exchange and Michael Kors.
Staten Island University Hospital is the primary healthcare facility for the neighborhood. PS 51 (elementary) and Concord High School are the main public schools for local residents. Wagner College is located on the neighborhood’s outskirts.