Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) today blasted The USPS for their decision to close the Blythebourne Station Post Office on Sundays. The Blythebourne Station, a high-trafficked post office located in the heart of Borough Park at 1200 51st Street, will adjust its service hours effective January 3, 2009.
Citing a “business decision” as the reason for closure, Postmaster General for Brooklyn Joseph Chiossone attempted to justify the determination in a letter to the Assemblyman. He stated in part, “Many of our customers are already purchasing stamps at local businesses, by mail, phone and online.” The Postmaster noted that the station will, however, be accessible to the public during the remainder of the week, including Saturdays.
“It is galling that The Post Office has chosen to close this station on Sundays considering the demographics of the neighborhood in which it is located,” said an outraged Hikind. “Who will they even serve on Saturday in this community? The Jewish Sabbath will now become a day of rest for these postal employees, too.”
In a lame attempt to pacify inconvenienced consumers, Postmaster Chiossone suggested two alternate contract stations which are open for business on Sundays. “Neither of these sites is acceptable in lieu of official Post Office functions,” said Hikind. “These contract locations are overcrowded, inaccessible to many local residents, or offer only limited hours and services. The Post Office should immediately reverse their thoughtless and foolish decision.”