The EBBID is a constant target of criminals who dump refuse and debris in the streets of the community. The EBBID has contracted with a company to remove the waste after a dump-out has occurred. This company patrols the EBBID’s streets on a regular basis in an effort to keep the streets and the general area clean. The program started in June 2002 and, since its inception, has removed 400 tons of debris from the area’s streets, sidewalks and open areas.
Another program designed to enhance the appearance of the EBBID is the Brush Removal Program. This new program started out as a partnership with the New York City Department of Probation’s Community Shield Program and the Brooklyn District Attorney’s office. A team of workers patrols the area and removes wild brush which grows on the district’s empty lots. The program both keeps the area cleaner and keeps out pests and rodents that inhabit overgrown lots.
Graffiti continues to be a problem in the EBBID, as large industrial buildings are inviting for young people looking to leave their “mark.” In response to expressed concerns about this problem by EBBID members, the EBBID has worked with New York’s Area Maintenance Program to remove any and all graffiti. Under this program, property owners who request the service are assigned a team of graffiti cleaners to remove the paint. As a result of this program, the EBBID has virtually been graffiti-free.
To keep down the population of pests and rodents, the EBBID maintains a pest control program. The program involves baiting and placing traps in strategic areas of the EBBID, especially where rodents have been sighted and have caused significant problems. Rodent infestation has especially been a problem along Sutter Avenue, as the EBBID has received numerous complaints from residents in this area. After the placement of approximately 690 baited traps and due to the positive effects of the Brush Removal Program, the rodent problem has been dramatically reduced.
This is one of the most critical roles the EBBID plays on behalf of member businesses. By playing a middle man role between business owners and various city and state agencies, the EBBID helps businesses manage the rules and regulations that are imposed by government. Whether it is citations issued by the Department of Sanitation, permits issued by the Department of Buildings, or road construction disruptions caused by the Department of Transportation, the EBBID helps businesses bring their questions and concerns to the right people in government, as well has deal with government officials on the businesses’ behalf.
The EBBID provides real estate acquisition assistance both to EBBID businesses that have land or building for rent or sale and to outside businesses that express an interest in relocating to the EBBID. The EBBID will soon be using the real estate relocation on-line service offered by the New York City Department of Small Business Services.
The EBBID sponsors a number of programs designed to promote community development in the East New York area. The EBBID has provided scholarships to local high school graduates who would like to pursue a college education, supported local sports programs, sponsored SAT preparation courses, and sponsored the Total Woman Business Conference – a conference designed to assist woman entrepreneurs with their business endeavors.
Bill Wilkins, Manager
East Brooklyn Business Improvement District
80 Jamaica Ave., 3rd floor
Brooklyn, NY 11207
(718) 385-6700 ext. 19
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