FOREST HILLS, Queens – A tree‑lined corner of Ascan Avenue and Ingram Street was officially renamed Spider‑Man Way on Monday, turning a beloved fictional address into a real‑world landmark. The dedication ceremony drew families, local business owners, and fans of the web‑slinging hero who has been linked to the neighborhood since the 1960s.
Community celebration
Children ran through the crowd, waving homemade signs and reciting the famous line, “With great power comes great responsibility.” Nick Lowe, editor of the Spider‑Man comic series, praised the event, saying, “Seeing all these kids running around here, it’s magical that this character created in 1962 still means something today.”
Local voices
Jack Shi, owner of the two‑story house at the fictional 20 Ingram Street, welcomed the visitors. “Gentle, kind, brave, everyone likes it,” Shi said, noting how the address has become a point of pride for the neighborhood.
A young fan expressed personal devotion, “I watched every single movie, and he’s really good and I am going to be him for Halloween.” The enthusiasm reflected a broader sentiment that the superhero represents the everyday person.
Political support
State Assemblyman Sam Berger, representing the area, highlighted the cultural significance of the dedication. “For decades Spider‑Man has been synonymous with Queens and Forest Hills in particular,” Berger said. “We want to be the heroes we see swinging into action.” His remarks underscored the role of local heritage in fostering community spirit.
Creative legacy
Catalina Kaloferov, a longtime resident, added that the character’s appeal cuts across generations. “Spider‑Man and Peter Parker represent everyone because everyone can wear the mask,” she explained, emphasizing the inclusive message that resonates with families.
Mark Ditko, nephew of co‑creator Steve Ditko, reflected on the artistic origins, noting, “The DNA of Joe Simon, Jack Kirby and Ditko collided, and Spider‑Man was born. I have to believe that no one would imagine what he would eventually become.”
Why the dedication matters
The street naming serves as a reminder that popular culture can strengthen local identity. By honoring a fictional address that has become a real point of pride, the city acknowledges the power of storytelling to bring neighbors together. The ceremony also provides a family‑friendly event that aligns with the community’s values of imagination, responsibility, and shared heritage.
As the crowd dispersed, many lingered to take photos of the new street signs, ensuring that Spider‑Man Way will be a lasting fixture on Queens maps and in the hearts of Forest Hills residents for years to come.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
