It's no secret that the economic fallout of the coronavirus pandemic is decimating small businesses across New York City. A recent survey by the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce found that fully half of Brooklyn businesses could not pay full rent in November. In Brooklyn Heights, the problem is clear to anyone shopping or strolling on Montague Street, where the growing number of empty storefronts makes the situation painfully clear. As devastating as this year has been, it has also brought hope. The crisis has prompted an exciting evolution of commercial streets throughout Brooklyn with enhanced pedestrian and bike access, permanent outdoor dining and retail, and a new level of cooperation across stakeholders. Vanderbilt Ave, Smith Street, and 5th Avenue lit up with outdoor dining, retail, and pedestrian activity. The BHA has been involved for decades in efforts to support a healthy and vibrant Montague Street. While the pandemic is a real obstacle to many immediate remedies, the BHA, working in cooperation with the Montague Street Business Improvement District and others is using this time to develop a comprehensive plan to revitalize our commercial streets once our city and our neighborhood can "get back to business." Here's where YOU come in. We're asking you to take this short online survey now! Your input will help guide our vision and inform our actions. We will share the data with the community, the BID, local landlords and business owners and elected officials.
As a special incentive, the owners of the The Heights Cafe and Dellarocco's have donated a $50.00 gift card that can be used at either restaurant. We are so grateful! The winner of the gift card will be drawn at random from the responses we receive. Please complete the survey by December 18th. And thank you! PS: Please consider a contribution to our Annual Fund - see below. |