NY1 reporter Jeanine Ramirez at Brewklyn Grind on Myrtle Avenue.

As part of their coverage on Hurricane Sandy recovery, NY1 stopped by Myrtle Avenue in Clinton Hill to speak to one of the district’s newest businesses: Brewklyn Grind.  The coffee business opened its first storefront location this past month at 557 Myrtle Avenue, after spending the last couple of years rebuilding their Red Hook-based wholesale operations, which was damaged by Sandy.

When Brewklyn Grind was looking for a place to open a storefront cafe, the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership was able to use a state-funded grant program to attract them to Clinton Hill.  Through the New York Main Street grant program, the Partnership provided a matching grant to the business to help with costs associated with building-out the formerly vacant commercial space.  Prior to their arrival, the space did not have a restroom, heat or A/C system, very little plumbing and the entire electrical system needed upgrading.  The bare bones of the space made it difficult for prospective businesses to sign a lease, but thanks to the matching grant funds, the space become a viable option for new lease signers.  After submitting an application and having their plans reviewed, Brewklyn Grind was approved for a grant and began work in the space.

Over the past 10 years, the Partnership has awarded more than $800,000 in New York Main Street grants to 36 different properties along Myrtle Avenue in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill.  The grant has not only served as a tool to attract businesses, but has also supported many existing businesses who renovated their commercial spaces or made storefront improvements.

Brewklyn Grind, 557 Myrtle Avenue, between Emerson and Classon.