The Fallout of MTA Construction on Bronx Businesses

The Sudden Arrival of a Giant Fence

In the fall, the MTA erected a massive mesh fence near the Van Cortlandt Park-242nd Street station, drastically altering the landscape of a once-thriving block in the Bronx. This fence, part of a restoration project, has effectively cut off the row of businesses from their customers. The sudden obstacle has not only obscured the storefronts but also deterred both foot and car traffic, signaling a downturn in business for the local shops and restaurants. The impact was immediate; business owners noticed a sharp decline in customers, with some reporting losses as high as 50% within months. The fence, meant to facilitate construction, has instead become a barrier to commerce, leaving business owners struggling to stay afloat.

A Stark Decline in Revenue

The financial toll on these businesses is stark and undeniable. Owners like Lou Porco, whose Broadway Joe’s Pizza has been a community staple since 1969, are grappling with the reality of reduced sales. Porco has had to cut employee hours and is uncertain about the future, expressing fears that the prolonged construction may force him to close. Gary Singh, owner of Shah Halal Food, shares similar concerns. Having invested his life savings into the business just eight months before the fence went up, Singh is now facing a 50% drop in patronage. The visible absence of customers has also led to a rise in homelessness in the area, as the blocked-off corridor provides refuge for vagrants, further deterring potential visitors.

Construction Delays and MTA’s Lack of Communication

The initial promise of a six-month project has stretched into a multi-year ordeal. The MTA’s decision to halt construction after only two weeks, followed by a two-year extension, has left business owners frustrated and disillusioned. The discovery of a sewer beneath the planned elevator site led to a change in plans, yet the MTA chose not to relocate the project, leaving the fence in place. This lack of progress and communication has deepened the crisis. Business owners report being kept in the dark about the project’s status, exacerbating their financial and emotional distress. The abrupt announcement of a water shutdown further adds to their woes, with authorities providing little explanation or support.

The Rise of Homelessness and Its Impact

As the fence stands, it not only blocks customers but also inadvertently creates a haven for homelessness. The seclusion offered by the fence has led to an increase in vagrancy, with reports of harassment, theft, and vandalism against the remaining businesses. Workers, such as Danny from Shamrock Wines and Liquors, recount daily struggles with individuals who take advantage of the area’s reduced surveillance and accessibility. The decline in police presence due to the construction further emboldens such activities, creating a hostile environment for both business owners and the remaining customers.

Personal Stories and Struggles

The stories of Lou Porco, Gary Singh, and others paint a vivid picture of the human cost of the MTA’s actions. Porco’s worry about being able to continue his business is palpable, while Singh’s despair over the loss of his new venture is heart-wrenching. The emotional and financial strain is evident in their accounts. Abuekr Algazali, owner of a deli and a Mexican restaurant, faces the harsh reality of discarding unsold food, a testament to the lack of customers. His financial struggles are compounded by personal burdens, including his wife’s health issues. Algazali’s plea for the MTA to create fence openings has gone unanswered, leaving him in a dire situation.

A Community’s Call for Action

Amidst the chaos, the community is calling for change. Customers like Michael Walker, though few in number, voice their frustration with the MTA’s handling of the project, urging action to either expedite construction or remove the fence. Business owners highlight the need for MTA accountability and support. The community’s plea is one of urgency and desperation, seeking interventions that could potentially salvage the remaining businesses and restore the area’s vibrancy. This crisis serves as a stark reminder of the ripple effects of poorly managed infrastructure projects and the enduring spirit of communities fighting against the odds.