That Made In New York Film Production Tax Credit Is At Least Partially To Blame . . .

After making inroads with 9/11 first responders and the City Council, The Church of Scientology spreads its influence up to 125th Street:

Harlem, beware! The neighborhood long weary of gentrification may soon have to deal with the likes of Tom Cruise, John Travolta and Kirstie Alley.

The Church of Scientology, known for its celebrity devotees, is making a big push to expand its empire along 125th Street, purchasing three properties there last week, and planning a major recruitment drive in the neighborhood.

The Rev. John Carmichael, president of the church in New York, declined to give details about the purchase, but reports put the total sales price at $10.2 million.

Carmichael said the three buildings — 228 through 232 E. 125th St. — will house a main Scientology complex and a community center that will offer literacy programs and drug counseling.

Two of the properties were formerly owned by St. Samuel Church of God in Christ, which moved a block away.

The church will be exempt from property tax in New York City, Carmichael said, and added that the church has no plans to buy any more property on that block or in the neighborhood.

“It’s 50,000 square feet in all,” Carmichael said. “It’s a pretty generous space.”