A few weeks ago we shared the news that the Adams administration was trying to push ahead with a plan to begin an environmental review process for the triple cantilever this month -- in effect tying the hands of the future mayor and his administration and committing us to plans that neither our community nor local elected officials support. 

On October 30th, the BQE Environmental Justice Coalition sent a letter to the State asking that any environmental review be put off until the new year. Our letter followed a similar request by our elected officials. 

We learned this week that the EIS will not be happening this year. We are relieved and grateful that this misguided effort has been put aside. 

We're hopeful that new leadership at City Hall will result in a more collaborative, ambitious, and sustainable approach to the BQE. We will continue to press for a strategy that combines near-term safety repairs to the existing Triple Cantilever structure and collaboration with our communities on a far more comprehensive solution to the rest of the BQE’s problems.

We are grateful to the Department of Transportation for prioritizing street repair work across our neighborhood.  Wondering when your block is scheduled for repairs? The DOT posts a weekly schedule of their planned work.  We know the street closures (and intermittent bumpy roads) are an inconvenience but the final product is worth it.

New and lightly used hats, scarves, and gloves for all ages are also welcome.  All items can also be dropped off at CM Restler's office (410 Atlantic Ave) Monday through Friday between 9am-5pm through November 21.

The Service Collective is a fabulous local organization providing community service opportunities for kids and their families and many are drop-off!

This Thanksgiving Holiday, TSC has put together a list of activities to support those in need.  Volunteers need to create an account before signing up.  Learn more here.

Concerned about ICE's increasing presence across New York City?  On November 15 from 2-4pm, CM Lincoln Restler and CM Shahana Hanif will be canvassing local businesses, sharing vital resources with workers and business owners, and posting welcoming flyers on windows. Volunteers are needed to help this initiative.  You can sign up here. 

On Monday, November 17 at 10:00am, the City Council will hold a hearing on CM Restler's legislation to make Open Dining year-round. The bill would simplify the participation process and allow an expanded footprint for small restaurants.

Would you like to share what the return of open dining means to you? Neighbors and small businesses can testify online or in-person (250 Broadway on the 8th Floor, Hearing Room 1.)

As we reported last week, budget cuts to NYC Parks have meant that the Brooklyn Heights Garden Club has taken on all of the expenses (approximately $10,000) for this yearly initiative – costs which had previously been covered by the city.