Crews of volunteers organized by Assemblyman William Colton (D—Gravesend, Bensonhurst, Bath Beach and Dyker Heights) and City Councilmember Susan Zhuang (D— Bensonhurst, Bath Beach, Gravesend, Dyker Heights, Boro Park and Sunset Park) took to 86^th Street on Saturday, June 22 in the first of the pair’s community cleanups for 2024.

Armed with brooms, rakes and shovels, participants young and old swept, cleared catchbasins and pulled up weeds during the three-hour event, which took place between 14^th and 24^th Avenues. Approximately 60 people turned out, even in the heat, surprising passersby who stopped to thank the volunteers for their efforts in beautifying the neighborhood.

“We had an extremely successful cleanup,” said Assemblyman Colton, who led the volunteers in the effort. “I was delighted with the turnout, as well as the results, and also extremely pleased by the number of people who expressed interest in joining us in future cleanups. These efforts are so important. Not only do they result in a more pleasing environment for residents and merchants, but they send an important signal to the entire community that we care, and that we are committed to bettering the neighborhoods in which we all live, work and raise our families. These volunteer cleanups also send another important message – that even small efforts can add up to big results, and make a significant difference in the quality of life.”

"My office was delighted to join Assemblyman Colton in helping clean up our community. Dozens of volunteers joined us despite the heat to help clean our streets and make our community safer for everyone," said Councilmember Zhuang. "I would like to thank everyone who assisted and look forward to holding another community clean up again soon."

The next community cleanup is scheduled to take place on Saturday, July 20, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. For further information or to volunteer, call 718-236-1598 or email contrinoa@nyassembly.gov.

Photos by Jack Li courtesy of the Office of Assemblyman William Colton