Several business proprietors in the Bronx are voicing their dissatisfaction as their store windows are becoming partly obscured because of MTA construction work.
Metal fences and cement barriers obstruct numerous shops on Broadway close to Van Cortlandt Park, largely obscuring the stores’ signage and removing available parking spaces.
As stated by an MTA representative, the initiative at the Van Cortlandt Park-242nd Street Station was initiated towards the end of October 2024 and is slated for conclusion in 2026. The team is currently working on adding an elevator and refurbishing the more than hundred-year-old raised platform.
An MTA representative stated that the construction work continues, though they are reassessing the situation following the discovery of an additional sewer line not included in the initial plans. They went on to say that such occurrences are not unusual.
A representative from MTA issued a statement indicating, in part:
Since last spring, we’ve collaborated intensively with local communities and businesses, and we’ll keep working together to reduce both the size and height of the barrier. This collaborative effort aims to ensure the project is completed according to plan and within budget.
“There’s no access”
One business affected by the construction is Broadway Joe’s Pizza.
Louie Porco mentioned that the pizzeria has been under his family’s ownership since his dad started it back in 1969. Despite enduring through many years, the eatery now faces challenges as Porco expressed worry regarding the financial health of the business following the nearby construction project.
“Things were going well with business until the construction started. Since then, it has dropped by 35%,” Porco mentioned.
Similarly affected by the construction challenges is Aubakr Algazali, proprietor of Gourmet Market and Bagel Deli. He mentioned having to close his second outlet on the same street mere weeks after it began operations because of the MTA construction work.
“I shut it down. The business was only operational for three weeks before closing. Now I’m facing rental payments without income since it’s not operating. Additionally, we still have outstanding rent and debts to cover,” explained Algazali.
Porco wishes for some action soon to restore businesses to their usual state.
“The primary concern here is having more parking spaces. Scale it back a bit; it’s overly large and inaccessible. Folks have to circle around just to reach us,” stated Porco.
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