As the result of numerous calls to our offices expressing concern about road conditions in the area around Paulding Avenue, I along with the offices of Councilman Seabrook and Senator Hassell-Thompson had a meeting with the NYC Department of Design and Construction (DDC) team. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has recently begun a $38.6 million capital construction project that will include work being performed to improve not only the roadways, but also the utilities such as sewers and street lights.

According to the City, this project includes, many updates that are important to sustaining the rapid growth that our community is experiencing. They contend that the sewer improvements will increase capacity so our streets are less likely to experience flooding. The City asserts that it will install new water mains to increase capacity and they will be less likely to rupture. Once the improvements are made, the City has stated that the streets, pedestrian ramps, curbs and sidewalks will be repaved. Although the city insists these repairs are necessary, I have however, complained about the hazardous "temporary" conditions affecting our streets (i.e. pot holes, curbs, sidewalk and asphalt problems).

The City contends that the construction is being done in stages to minimize the disruption to the local residents. The City stated that they are committed to insuring street access/pedestrian access at all times and signs will be posted to inform the community when streets will be closed to vehicles or for parking purposes. Most closures and limited access will occur generally during work hours according to the City.

DEP stated that water service maybe disrupted during the course of this project. If the water is scheduled for disruption you should receive written notice by the afternoon of the day before the water will be turned off. Water service will be restored at the end of the work day. In the event that you see discolored water it is likely the result of the water disruption. Please run only cold water until the water clears. The water discoloration is often the result of sediment in old pipes

Typical working hours are from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. weekdays.

According to representatives from the DDC, asphalt applied for temporary patches often does not "sit" well when applied during the winter time. They stated that if you are aware of any parts of the road that are hazardous/unacceptably rugged please contact NYC Department of Design and Construction at their field office 718-515-6302. The City has promised to immediately address any temporary asphalt that may be presenting a problem to local residents. Please notify my office at 718-654-6539 in addition to DDC, so that we may continue to monitor these issues.

If you have any concerns or questions with this project or any other issue please do not hesitate to contact me. Remember my office is here to serve you.