Pleasant Plains, NY

On Staten Island's south shore lies the neighborhood of Pleasant Plains. 

Established in the 1860s as a railroad stop, this community remains centered around its historic train station over 150 years later. Winding roads are lined with trees, offering a relaxed ambiance perfect for families.

Population

Pleasant Plains has a population of approximately 5,000 residents. Most residents live in the neighborhoods located around the original railroad station.

A breakdown of the demographics shows there is diversity in age ranges. Around 30% are younger families with children under 18 years old. Another 30% fall between ages 35-55, representing working adults. Seniors make up 20% of residents who are 65 years or older. The final 20% are young professionals between 18 to 35 years old.

Age Range	Percentage of Population
Under 18 years	30%
18 to 35 years	20%
35 to 55 years	30%
65 years and over	20%

 Most families have lived in the neighborhood for multiple generations. Newer residents appreciate the family-friendly streets and parks nearby.

History 

Pleasant Plains started as a station stop along the Staten Island Railroad line in the 1860s. It was named by railroad officials seeking to develop the rural area into a community.

One of the most significant historical sites was Mount Loretto, founded in 1883. Irish immigrant Father John Drumgoole established an orphanage and farm there to help the many homeless children in New York City following the potato famine and Civil War.

With its self-sufficient farm, Mount Loretto could house almost 2,000 orphans. Father Drumgoole's charitable work significantly impacted the local community.

After World War I, residents worked to build the Pleasant Plains Soldiers and Sailors Monument honoring the 493 local men who served. Community leaders Joseph Seguine and Albert McGeehan organized fundraising for the monument, designed by sculptor George Brewster. 

Quality of Life

Residents enjoy a high quality of life in Pleasant Plains thanks to its affordability and accessibility. Housing is very reasonable compared to other areas of Staten Island, with the median home price around $525,000. 

An excellent job market nearby also enhances quality of life. With major employment hubs like the Staten Island Mall, ferry terminal, and train station all close by, most find work conveniently close to home. Short commutes allow for more family and leisure time.

Health

Pleasant Plains residents have access to excellent healthcare facilities:

• Staten Island University Hospital South Campus provides comprehensive medical services.
• The South Campus Urgent Care Center offers after-hours treatment for non-life threatening injuries.
• Mount Sinai Staten Island provides quality inpatient and outpatient care.
• Richmond University Medical Center specializes in rehabilitation.
• Staten Island Mental Health Society addresses behavioral health needs.

Safety

The neighborhood enjoys a fairly safe environment, with a crime rate slightly below the borough average.

Property crimes like burglary and theft are most prevalent. Violent incidents are less common.

The local police precinct patrols the area and responds quickly to calls.

Still, residents take precautions like locking doors and windows when away. Walking alone at night carries more risk, so buddying up provides added security.

The community also looks out for one another. Anyone spotting suspicious behavior immediately alerts authorities. This neighborhood watch-style approach strengthens safety in numbers.

Transportation

Getting around the neighborhood is convenient thanks to multiple options. Pleasant Plains residents can drive, take public transit, or participate in carpooling.

Amboy Road and Richmond Avenue handle major traffic flows, becoming quite busy during rush hours. Street parking fills up quickly too on busy days.

But public transportation caters well to commuters. The SIR station provides rail access into the city. An assortment of local and express buses serve stops along Amboy Road and Bloomingdale Road. The S55, S56, and S59 lines are popular.

For those traveling to Manhattan, the Staten Island Ferry runs every 15-30 minutes.

Shopping and Dining

Though primarily residential, the neighborhood offers sufficient options to fulfill daily needs. Shops and eateries line the main drags of Amboy Road and Richmond Avenue.

Several supermarkets supply grocery staples, from Pleasant Plains Fruit & Produce to the Stop & Shop anchoring the Pleasant Plains Shopping Center. This plaza and others house a mix of stores like pharmacies, hardware outlets, and service providers.

When larger purchases are required, the Staten Island Mall lies three miles away with over 200 retailers and department stores from Macy’s to Nordstrom. Residents can get all their shopping and dining done in one fell swoop there.

Education

Private school options provide religous and secular environments. Staten Island Academy attracts families seeking a top non-denominational secondary education. Faith-based choices include the co-ed Saint Joseph By the Sea and all-boys Monsignor Farrell high schools from the Catholic system.

Right in Pleasant Plains resides the main campus of South Richmond High School. This special education facility tailors its program for students’ unique needs.

For younger grades, area families have excellent public options close to home. Elementary levels start at P.S. 3 and P.S. 6, serving ages 5 through 11. P.S. 34 completes middle school preparation.

Catholic elementary alternatives within the neighborhood include St. Joseph/St. Thomas and Our Lady Help of Christians schools

Points of Interest

• Mount Loretto Unique AreaThis 194-acre park was once part of the orphanage established by Father Drumgoole. Today it offers hiking trails, birdwatching and scenic woodland views along one mile of shoreline. Its natural beauty provides a tranquil escape.
• Amboy PlazaRight by the SIR station, this shopping center makes daily needs easy to access. Stores like Waldbaum's supermarket and shops cover everything from groceries to gifts. Residents appreciate the convenience.
• Bricktown Shopping CentreFor larger purchases, this center just outside Pleasant Plains houses chains like Target and Home Depot plus restaurants. The variety of options saves trips to other areas.
• Outerbridge CrossingThis 1928 bridge was a major development, connecting the South Shore to New Jersey via the Richmond Parkway. It enhances mobility for both work and play outside Staten Island.
• Nearby ParksSmaller green spaces dotted across Pleasant Plains provide activities. Larger recreational areas like Clove Lakes let nature lovers unwind amid scenic trails and wildlife.