Category Archives: District News

Announcing the 2nd Annual Senior Resource Fair

2nd Annual Senior Resource Fair Comes to Fort Greene & Clinton Hill, Brooklyn
Wednesday, March 29th
11am-2pm

The Myrtle Avenue Revitalization Project (MARP) & and its Senior Advisory Council (SAC) of 30 active members brings the 2nd Annual Senior Resource Fair to Fort Greene & Clinton Hill, Brooklyn this month.  The FREE Fort Greene/Clinton Hill Senior Resource Fair, made possible with support from the New York Community Trust, is open to all seniors, and will take place on Wednesday, March 29th, 11am to 2pm at Mercy Home, 273 Willoughby Avenue (corner of Classon Avenue).

Over 30 exhibitors including city agencies, providers, and services will share information focused on senior resources and programs, from transportation services to online classes, from physical activity to legal assistance, from job placement and assistance to recreational activities.

Confirmed groups attending include Access-A-Ride, MTA Reduced Fare Metro Card, the Good Neighbors Program, DOROT, NY Foundation for Seniors’ Home Sharing Program, Heights & Hills, Phoenix and the NYC Department of the Aging. A number of Myrtle Avenue businesses that offer weekly senior discounts, specials and other services will also be on hand, such as Sandbox Pack & Ship, Myrtle Drug Care Corp and TD Bank. Additional invitees include but not limited to LIU Platinum Sneakers, Mark Morris Dance and CityMeals on Wheels.

Other interested senior-focused organizations and service providers may contact the organization if interested in participating in the Senior Resource Fair at (718) 230-1689 ext 3#.

Click this link and like our Myrtle Avenue Facebook page for Myrtle Avenue updates and more information.

Standing Room Only at Fort Greene Park Community Meeting

The New York City Parks Department held a second community input session Thursday night to discuss the upcoming $7M improvements to Fort Greene Park. The local park is one of eight selected by the department to receive upgrades through the new city-wide Parks Without Borders program. Over 100 people attended the event on Myrtle Avenue at the Ingersoll Community Center to hear initial ideas from Parks and to give their input on how the money should be spent.

The program is solely focused on making improvements to the north side of the park, along Myrtle Avenue. Local residents and parks department discussed ideas for improving a number of areas, including sidewalks and seating along Myrtle Avenue, basketball courts, fitness areas, barbecue areas, the plaza at Washington Park, and the entrance at St. Edwards Street.

Missed the meeting? Suggestions and comments can still be shared by sending a message to the Fort Greene Park Conservancy or by calling the Fort Greene Park Director at (718) 722-3218.

Below are just a few of the ideas shared at the meeting:

New Business Openings Recap

Villa Pancho Taqueria, opened in January at 472 Myrtle Avenue.

As 2017 kicks off, a flurry of new businesses opened their doors on Myrtle Avenue in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill in January. The neighborhood’s newest storefronts bring new places to eat, grab a cocktail, or indulge in a pedicure. Below is a round-up of the four businesses who opened their doors this past month:

UNTIL TOMORROW
A new cocktail and wine bar, with a stellar kitchen helmed by a former Blue Hill chef, officially opened their doors on January 25th. Found at 507 Myrtle Avenue in Clinton Hill, between Ryerson Street and Grand Avenue, the new bar offers a creative drink and expertly crafted pub-grub classics menu.
Until Tomorrow, 507 Myrtle Avenue, (347) 987-4181. Hours: Everyday, 5pm-2am.

THE HALAL SPOT
Now open at 474 Myrtle Avenue in Clinton Hill, the Halal Spot is quickly becoming a new go-to spot for quick and healthy dining.  Only using all natural, organic meats in their rice dishes, wraps, and sandwiches, The Halal Spot ups the game on this standard NYC fare.
The Halal Spot, 474 Myrtle Avenue, (718) 230-4900. Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 11am-11pm; Friday & Saturday: 11am-Midnight.

VILLA PANCHO
From the owners of Zaytoons comes the relaunch of a popular Bed-Stuy taqueria at 472 Myrtle Avenue in Clinton Hill. This popular taco and burrito spot offers a fully affordable and delicious menu.  And did we mention that their menu includes churros?
Villa Pancho, 472 Myrtle Avenue, (718) 623-9016. Hours: Everyday, 11am-11pm.

HONEY NAIL SALON
This nail salon, with an existing location in Prospect Heights, has expanded to Clinton Hill with a new location at 490 Myrtle Avenue. The new space, found next door to Key Food and TD Bank, offers a full menu of manis and pedis.
Honey Nail Salon, 490 Myrtle Avenue, (718) 857-0030.  Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10am-8pm; Sunday: 10am-7pm.

We Broke Our Record & Raised $12,000, Thank You!

We did it! We broke our record and raised over $12,000 in our crowdfunding campaign with your help.  A big heartfelt thank you to our 80+ donors and to our largest community supermarket, Key Food. In the coming year, every dollar you donated will help us to provide programs that serve our local youth, older residents, food-insecure families & more right here in our own community. Thank you!

To keep up to date on our work in the neighborhood follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and sign up for our monthly e-newsletter.

Fort Greene Affordable Housing Lottery Round Up

86 Fleet Place, at the corner of Myrtle Avenue, is accepting applications to fill affordable housing units while the building completes construction.

Several new affordable housing lotteries are now open in and around Fort Greene, and are accepting applications for low-to-moderate income residents. Here’s our round-up of 3 housing lotteries for newly constructed housing in the neighborhood.

86 Fleet Place

86 Fleet Place, at the corner of Myrtle Avenue & Fleet at the border of Downtown Brooklyn and Fort Greene, opens their lottery for 29 below-market rental units on Friday, January 27.

The 32-story tower has studios, 1-, 2-, and 3-bedrooms available from households earning between $30,446 and $63,060. Click here to view full details on apartment availability, family size, and income restrictions. To apply, visit NYC Housing Connect online or request a printed application by sending a self-addressed envelope to Red Apple 86 Fleet Place Development, LLC c/o St. Nicks Alliance, Jennings Hall, 260 Powers Street, Brooklyn, NY 1121.

 

504 Myrtle Avneue in Clinton Hill, between Ryerson Street and Grand Avenue.

504 Myrtle Avenue

Another 29 affordable units are available further down Myrtle Avenue in Clinton Hill at 504 Myrtle. This affordable housing lottery, which closes February 1st, is for studio, 1- and 2-bedroom apartments. Applicants must have a household size between 1 and four people, and earn between $30,206 and $54,360. Click here to view the lottery notice and to find details on how to apply.

 

38 Sixth Avenue, near Barclays Center, in Prospect Heights.

38 Sixth Avenue

Elsewhere in the neighborhood, an affordable housing lottery opened for 303 units at 38 Sixth Avenue near the Barclay’s Center. This housing, part of the Pacific Park development, is accepting applications until March 14. Click here to view full details on the size of apartments available and restrictions on household size and income.

To view a full list of affordable housing lotteries available throughout the city, visit NYC Housing Connect.

Coming to Myrtle Avenue in 2017

honey_storefront_2017-4Several storefronts along Myrtle Avenue in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill will soon be home to several new businesses who are planning openings in early 2017.  Below is a recap of the new eateries, shops, and services coming to the neighborhood:

HONEY NAIL SALON
NOW OPEN! This nail salon, with an existing location in Prospect Heights, has expanded to Clinton Hill with a new location at 490 Myrtle Avenue. The new space, found next door to Key Food and TD Bank, offers a full menu of manis and pedis.
Honey Nail Salon, 490 Myrtle Avenue, (718) 857-0030.  Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10am-8pm; Sunday: 10am-7pm.

until-tomorrow_storefront_2017-6UNTIL TOMORROW
A new cocktail and wine bar will be opening in early 2017 at 507 Myrtle Avenue in Clinton Hill, between Ryerson Street and Grand Avenue. Stop by during their soft opening on January 5th to check out the chic new space and to sip one of their specialty cocktails.  Until then, follow Until Tomorrow on Instagram or Facebook to learn more.

LOCALS
Found at 332 Myrtle Avenue, just steps from Fort Greene Park, Locals will be a go-to spot for morning coffee and pastries, grab-and-go lunch options, and fine prepared foods to take home for dinner.  They are planning an opening in the first few months of 2017, so stay tuned for more details!

EUROPEAN WAX CENTER
This international beauty chain is slated to open at 531 Myrtle Avenue, at the corner of Steuben Street, in spring 2017.  Click here to find more details and how to enjoy complimentary services during their opening week!

GOLD COAST BANK
This Long Island bank is opening their first NYC-based location on Myrtle Avenue within The Giovanni, the newly opened building at the corner of Fleet Place and Myrtle Avenue.  Click here to read more about the bank, which is slated to open in early 2017.

img_5110WINE LEGEND
Offering a full wine shop and wine bar, the Wine Legend storefront will be found at the corner of Myrtle Avenue and Fleet Place. This is the company’s fifth store in the NY Metro area, and its first in Brooklyn.

DÉPANNEUR
This popular shop and cafe in Williamsburg is opening their second location on Myrtle Avenue in Clinton Hill at 519 Myrtle Avenue.  Depanneur, or Dep, which is a common name for convenience stores in Quebec, is a go-to spot from morning til night for coffee, baked goods, sandwiches, or items for your pantry and home.  Stay tuned for more details on their opening in spring 2017.

HUDSON JANE
Serving as an “all day cafe and wine bar,” Hudson Jane will be bringing something new to Fort Greene when it opens in spring 2017 at 360 Myrtle Avenue. While you wait to try their delicious sandwiches, wine bar, or other prepared foods, visit their website to learn about joining their supper club.

PIPSQUEAK
This popular Bed-Stuy children’s store is set to open their second location at 469 Myrtle Avenue in Clinton Hill.  Once opened, they’ll have a full selection of children’s apparel, toys, home goods, plus a full calendar of children’s events.  Stay tuned for more details as they prepare for an opening in spring 2017.

halal-spot-4THE HALAL SPOT
Opening soon at 474 Myrtle Avenue in Clinton Hill, the Halal Spot will become a new go-to spot for quick and delicious to-go lunches and dinners.  As you wait to enjoy their middle eastern fare, visit their website to view their full menu to whet the appetite.

VILLA PANCHO
From the owners of Zaytoons comes a new taqueria that’ll be opening at 472 Myrtle Avenue in Clinton Hill. This popular taco and burrito spot was most recently found on Bedford Avenue in Bed-Stuy and is slated to open in its new space in early 2017.  Stay tuned for more details on their full menu and opening date!

Help Us Reach Our Crowdfunding Goal

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Students from Benjamin Banneker Academy learn tree stewardship and soil care in our tree beds along Myrtle Avenue.

Whether we’re creating community programming or advocating for resources, MARP is dedicated to improving the lives of our neighbors in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill.  This year we served our neighborhood by securing much needed resources for food insecure families, providing opportunities for both employment and volunteerism, and connecting neighbors to each other to strengthen our community.

We’re proud of our accomplishments this year:

  • Along with a growing list of community partners, our Fort Greene & Farragut Fresh Pantry brought 150,000 lbs of fresh food to 900 families since September 2015.  For our Thanksgiving distribution alone, we gave out 150 turkeys and 13,000 lbs of sweet potatoes, bananas, apples, and stuffing to over 300 families. This was made possible with the help of over 100 local volunteers.
  • We celebrated the 10th anniversary of our Youth Entrepreneurship Mentorship Program, partnering with local businesses & organizations to mentor and employ 20 local youth in our small business district this summer.
  • We published the 2016 Senior Resource Guide and encouraged close to 40% of Myrtle Avenue businesses to offer specials to the 6,000 seniors living right here in Fort Greene & Clinton Hill, and we organized the very first Senior Resource Fair.
  • We offered free Neighborhood Tours and Community Bike Rides. We’re making sure our neighbors are informed of free resources in our community by regularly sharing information at community centers and meetings.
  • We assembled a unique partnership between MARP LDC, Brooklyn College, Mercy Home, and Benjamin Banneker Academy to provide an urban environmental education program and hands-on tree stewardship for local students through our “Tree Ed” program.

There is more work to do, and we need your help. Will you help us feed our neighbors, provide youth jobs, and build community through service opportunities in 2017?

DONATE TODAY!

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MARP Staff & 40 volunteers distributed 150 turkeys and 13,000 lbs of fresh food to 300 families at the Fort Greene & Farragut Fresh Pantry this Thanksgiving.

 

Black Artstory Month 2017 Photos

Black Artstory Month 2017 Kickoff Celebration

Artwalk Murals and Exhibits

Present Futures: Healing and Self-Preservation as Resistance

Red Lantern Donates (Recycled) Bikes to Kids

 

Red Lantern on Myrtle Avenue
There are kids in need everywhere, including kids right here in Brooklyn, in our own neighborhood.  This new year, 2017 Red Lantern Bicycles is kicking off a recycled bike giveaway program. Kids bikes will be given away for FREE to families in need of one. Red Lantern Bicycles is starting a program to help gather unwanted kids bikes and donate them to neighborhood families.

For Those Wanting to Donate:

The bicycle shop is taking donations of bikes (for kids ages 3-11) every 2nd Saturday of every month. Simply stop in and drop it off.

Anyone who donates a bike will not only feel good about their donation and sharing of resources, but they will also get 10% off coupon for their next purchase at the store of bikes or accessories.

For Families Wanting a Refurbished Bike

The bike shop is hosting bike giveaways every 4th Saturday of the month, while supplies on any given day last.

Staff will take the information of the parent or guardian and pair the child up with a bike.

*Please note: one bike per family. The child must accompany the parent.

Red Lantern Bicycles & Cafe, 345 Myrtle Avenue between Carlton & Adelphi
(718) 889-5338

A New Year’s Resolution to the Community

artboard-1-copyThe answer to the question, “What do you love about Myrtle Avenue?” isn’t quantifiable. We know we love it, but what makes it lovable is a myriad messy mix of people, things, ideas, and activities. And, you’re a part of it. When you go to the store, when you walk down the street, you become part of the bustling city we’ve all come to love. So, this New Years we’re asking community members to become a bigger part of Myrtle Avenue. Make your role on Myrtle Avenue purposeful, and make Myrtle Avenue yours. Because it is yours, and you are what there is to love about Myrtle Avenue.

As a BID, and a non-profit, we spend a lot of time trying to make Myrtle Avenue better. Whether that means picking up trash or improving safety for pedestrians, young people, and seniors, we spend our days trying shape Myrtle Avenue towards something sustainable, diverse, and enjoyable. But, we can’t do it alone, and we shouldn’t do it alone. One organization should not be responsible even to define what better is! So, we need your help. We need you, Myrtle Avenue needs you, to help shape it into the little piece of Brooklyn that it is, that it could be, or that it should be.

If you love that Myrtle Avenue is home to so many fantastic local businesses, become a frequent patron in 2017. If you, like us, think that Fort Greene Park is one of New York City’s best parks, become a bigger part of the park. Use it like it’s your park. Because it is! Volunteer with the Fort Greene Park Conservancy. Even better, get your kids to volunteer with the Conservancy. (A twofer!)

If you love your block just the way it is, show us why. Host a walking tour, or plan a street festival. We can help. Navigating the land of city permits can be daunting, but at Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership we have staff trained in this stuff. Yes, unsurprisingly, it takes a two degrees in city planning to figure out how to get a permit in this town!

If you’re an artist, contribute to the public art on Myrtle Avenue. The DOT has several public art programs this year, and we’re happy to help with your application.

Whatever your plan is, short of free parking on the sidewalk, let’s make it happen!

The beginning of a new year is often personal, and we spend a lot of time thinking about self -improvement. But, we can make public resolutions as well. In 2017, commit to making our neighborhoods a better place. Join us in our quest to support local businesses, diversity, healthy food options, a wonderful park, and our historic districts. Join us in helping to make Myrtle Avenue a place you love.

 

Where to De-stress on Myrtle Avenue

move-iwth-grace-768w
It’s the end of the year and time for some self-reflection. Take advantage of these studios & spas on Myrtle for quick access for much-needed rejuvenation.

Brownstone Spa
Specializing in body massage, sports massage, and reflexology Brownstone Spa is a real treasure. And best of all, it won’t cost you a fortune to feel like royalty.

Lucky Lotus Yoga & Cafe
You can’t go wrong with classes like, “70 Minute Reboot” and “Empower Hour.” Lucky Yoga has some of the best teachers in the borough and a continually updated online schedule. Stretch out your stress at Lucky Lotus Yoga & Cafe.

Move with Grace Yoga & Juice Bar
Occupying two storefronts on the strip, Move with Grace Yoga & Juice Bar offers a variety of class types including Yoga 101, Vinyasa Flow, Yin Flow, Pilates, meditation sessions and more. Definitely worth a visit.

Just the 411:

Brownstone Spa
473 Myrtle Avenue
(Washington & Hall)
(718) 398-1968

Lucky Lotus Yoga & Cafe
334 Myrtle Avenue
(Washington Park & Carlton)
(718) 858-5758

Move with Grace Yoga & Juice Bar
431 Myrtle Avenue
(Clinton & Waverly)
(718)230-0013

Photo courtesy of Move with Grace Yoga & Juice Bar.

BID Releases 2016 Annual Report

The Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Business Improvement District (BID) has released its 2016 Annual Report, highlighting its work on the Fort Greene and Clinton Hill commercial district over the past year.  We released the report at the organization’s annual meeting, which is recapped here.

In 2016, as the report notes, the BID was active in serving local businesses, marketing the district, hosting community events and arts programs, and managing the avenue’s public space.  Click through the report above, or download here, to find out more about the BID’s work during 2016.

Past annual reports can be found here.

Call for Artwork Extended: Black Artstory Month

suhalyThe Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership is proud to present the 5th Annual Black Artstory Month, titled The Altar: Rituals of Healing in the African Diaspora.

Programs and exhibitions are curated by Suhaly Bautista-Carolina:

The Altar is an exploration, through the lens of arts and culture, of healing rituals that span the African Diaspora; a celebration of the practices that fuel us and allow us to thrive in the world as African Descendants; an acknowledgment of our individual and collective healing practices as innate acts of resistance. Through visual art installations, performance, film, poetry and other creative mediums and practices, viewers will encounter how artists are honoring these longstanding healing rituals and traditions. The Altar  is thus both an exhibition and an offering of healing strategies, anchored in community, that aim to overcome stress, reinforce our intentions in the world and heal trauma. It is an invitation to learn how we can spiritually protect ourselves and each other and a commemoration of our legacy of healing throughout time and place.

Keywords and concepts:

Altar, Offerings, Heal, Spirit, Soul, Breath, Power, Transference, Inheritance, Ritual, Tradition / Traditional, Generational / Intergenerational, Ancestry / Ancestors / Descendants, Lineage, Timelessness / Time / Temporal, Recipes, Natural Knowing, Blood Memory, Art as release, Art Therapy, Religion, Church, Sacred spaces, Holiness, Liberation / Freedom, Community / Communication, African Diaspora.

Artwork and idea submissions are due by: Please note that deadline has been extended to Monday, November 21st at midnight.

For additional information and to submit, please email Suhaly Bautista-Carolina at blackartstory@myrtleavenue.org.

Please submit:

  • name, email, website
  • artist statement
  • 3-5 images of work (jpg)
  • 1 paragraph that ties your work to the theme

Black Artstory Month celebrates the influences and contributions made by African Americans within the visual and performing arts worlds.  The month-long celebration, which was designed to coincide with Black History Month, will take place from February 1-28, 2017 at venues, storefronts and merchant spaces along Myrtle Avenue in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill, Brooklyn.

FREE events will take place every Friday in February and visitors can also enjoy the artwork any day on display at independent businesses along Myrtle Avenue. 

suhaly-bam17_open-call-flier_600-x-800

Your Full Round-up of New Construction Along Myrtle

While many construction projects on or around Myrtle Avenue in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill are wrapping, new ones are just beginning.  The recent building boom is a mix of private developments, as well as the reconstruction of Myrtle Avenue itself as part of the creation of the new Myrtle Avenue Plaza.  Below is a summary and status update of 11 local construction projects currently in development:

220 Classon Ave. Source: CMC Development.
220 Classon Ave. Source: CMC Development.

220 Classon Avenue

St. Mary’s Episcopal Church filed new building plans with the city’s DOB to construct a 16 story tower on their property at the corner of Willoughby Avenue and Classon.  The residential building will include 142 apartments and rise to a height of 163 feet.  Pratt Institute also recently plans for a tower on this block, though it’ll only rise ten stories, reaching 118 feet in height.

The new development calls for the demolition of the historic rectory, but will leave the landmarked church intact.  DXA Studio Architecture provided designs for the new building.

504 Myrtle Avneue in Clinton Hill, between Ryerson Street and Grand Avenue.

504 Myrtle Avenue

A new eight story building is fully framed out at the site of the former Pratt Station U.S. Post Office.  When completed in spring 2017, the building will hold 141 apartments and 20,300 square feet of new commercial space on the ground floor.  Commercial spaces are currently available and being marketed by Winick Realty.

28 apartments will be set aside through the city’s affordable housing program.  Details have not yet been released on how to apply for these units through the city’s affordable housing lottery.

The project is being developed by Madison Capital Realty and was designed by HTO Architects.

501 Myrtle

501 Myrtle Avenue

Demolition work has begun at the corner of Myrtle Avenue and Ryerson Street on the former one story building that housed Sapolo Restaurant. New building plans call for a six story building that houses 10 apartments and a 1,700 square foot ground-floor commercial space.

The project was designed by Raymond Chan Architect.

531 Myrtle Avenue, replacing the former White Castle building.

531 Myrtle Avenue

Windows have gone in at the new five story building that has risen at the former White Castle site, at the corner of Steuben and Myrtle.  When completed, the building will house 27 apartments and three storefronts spanning 6,000 square feet of commercial space.

The European Wax Center has been announced by broker RKF as the first commercial tenant.  Two commercial spaces are still available and interested tenants can contact RKF.

525 Myrtle Ave Myrtle Car

525 Myrtle Avenue

The former site of Myrtle Car Service, between Grand and Steuben, now holds a topped-out seven story mixed-use condo building.  On the ground floor, one commercial and medical-use condo are available, as well as 22 residential condos on the upper floor.

The new building was designed by Gerald J. Caliendo and is being developed by FBS Realty.

135 Emerson_2016

Pratt Institute Dormitory

A new 10-story tower has been planned for 135 Emerson Place, between Myrtle and Willoughby Avenues.  Developed Pratt Institute has announced that the building will hold 148 beds for student housing.  The project will result in the demolition of a one story garage building that faces Myrtle Avenue, between Emerson and Classon.

Cannon Design served as the architect for the project.

Plaza Photo

Myrtle Avenue Plaza

Construction work is underway to build the new Myrtle Avenue Plaza, which will span two blocks alongside Myrtle Avenue between Grand Avenue and Emerson Place. Click here to read more details about the new 25,000 SF pedestrian space.

After a summer break, crews have currently finished resurfacing Myrtle Avenue, allowing two-way traffic to be restored.  The final phase of plaza construction, including pouring of new sidewalks and creating plaza features, is underway and is scheduled for completion in December 2016.  Plantings of new trees and installation of plaza fixtures, including seating, will take place in early Spring 2017.

491 Myrtle_Rendering

491 Myrtle Avenue

This formerly vacant lot (which witnessed a building collapse in 2009), will be home to a new five-story mixed-use building.  Six new apartments and 1,220 square feet of commercial space will comprise this 5,000 square foot building.

The commercial space is currently available to lease. Contact Ripco Real Estate for more information.

The project is being developed by MLR Holdings and was designed by Isaac Stern.

Ingersoll NYCHA New Building

Ingersoll Senior Housing

The New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) announced in spring 2016 that a 16 story tower will rise within the Ingersoll Houses at the corner of Myrtle Avenue and St. Edwards Street.  The new building will exclusively provide affordable housing for seniors, with 144 apartments available in either studio or one-bedroom configurations.  NYCHA estimates the building will be available for move-in in early 2018.

Click here to view a NYCHA fact sheet about the development.

86-Fleet-Place-Render-626x1024

86 Fleet Place

A 32-story tower has topped out at the corner of Myrtle Avenue and Fleet Place in Fort Greene. The building is the largest of four projects that part of Red Apple Development’s Myrtle Avenue holdings.  Next door to the tower, flanking the south side of Myrtle Avenue between Fleet and Ashland, sit the development company’s other three buildings: The Giovanni, The Margo, and The Andrea.

Residences are currently being leased within The Margo by Corcoran.  Retail leasing within The Margo and Giovanni are being represented by Winick Realty, which recently announced the signings of Gold Coast Bank and The Wine Legend.  Contact Winick to learn about the remaining commercial spaces.

134-Vanderbilt-Avenue

134 Vanderbilt Avenue

The former Gulf Gas Station at the corner of Myrtle and Vanderbilt Avenues, which closed in 2014, is slated to see a new eight story building.  The new development will house 46 apartments and 8,050 square feet of commercial space on the ground floor.

Construction work has not yet begun, though new building permits were issued in June 2015.

The property is being developed by All Year Management and was designed by ODA Architects.

Hudson Jane, American Comfort Coming to Fort Greene

meg-and-jen

photo credit: Laurie Rhodes

Hudson Jane, a new cafe and wine bar featuring American comfort food is opening in Fort Greene at 360 Myrtle Avenue in Spring of 2017. The cafe will feature innovative takes on “down home” dishes, delicious fine fare in a casual setting. Great for eating in but lots of grab and go menu items too, perfect for quick and on-the-go, breakfast, lunch and dinner options.

“It’s truly about love, good food and community,” share Hudson Jane owners, Executive Chef Meg Johnson and Creative Director Jen LaPorta, who met at Gottino wine bar n Greenwich Village 8 years ago before marrying in 2008. At the time, Meg was a chef and Jen was a regular. She knew the key to my heart for sure, shared Jen, who from an early age was taught by her Cuban grandmother, “mima,” that the most important ingredient of any dish is love.

The new eatery is named for the location of one the couple’s first dates, a Greenwich Village eatery at Hudson & Jane Streets.

When the cafe opens, neighbors can stop by for breakfast, lunch, dinner, wine and/or other beverages, and desserts as the cafe will be open from 7am to 10pm or later seven days per week. Fresh-brewed coffee, pastries, sandwiches, snacks, wine and full meals will be available. Some menu items include mushroom spaetzle (roasted mushrooms, dashstiener fondue and truffle oil); roasted sardines; candied kumquat (roasted fennel and dill dust); mac n’ cheese (comete, 5 spoke creamy tumbleweed, fontina and bread crumbs); mima’s swingin’ sirloin (braised oxtail and cuban white rice); preserved lemon chicken (with green olives and baguette); moroccan spiced lamb stew (with pearl couscous, harissa, tomato and cucumber salad) and wheat berries (spring pea, feta, dill, chamomile vinaigrette and pea tendrils). Check out Hudson Jane’s website and menu here for a comprehensive view of their eat-in and grab and go delicious menu offerings, from small plates, big plates, desserts, cheese, wines and cocktails, mocktails, charcuterie and provisions. Ice cream will also be served at Hudson Jane, perfect for eat-in or warmer weather on-the-go in the Park of other parts of the neighborhood.

Many items on Hudson Jane’s menu can be prepared into delicious vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, paleo and other renditions.

Hudson Jane will also have a retail shop near the front of the store featuring provisions such as jams, canned goods, cured meats and also curated collection of locally-designed and made housewares.

Look forward to tastings and cooking classes coming soon to Hudson Jane as well.

Chef Meg has extensive experience working at restaurants in Seattle and Dublin, and NY restaurants including Gramercy Tavern and executive chef at Casellula Cheese and Wine Cafe. She treasures shopping for ingredients at the local green market and has developed close relationships with local farmers. She started cooking with her grandmother as a a small child.

Jen grew up in Miami where food, including magical Sunday dinners, were at the heart of her close-knit Cuban community. She works in the fashion industry.

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Looking for ways to invest in a small business start up?

While currently in the build-out process of their commercial space, Hudson Jane has launched a crowdfunding campaign as well as equity partner opportunity for all interested in supporting them as they continue to build funds for this new endeavor: Contact Chef Megan and Jen for details of the equity partner opportunity, or check out their crowdfunding campaign with perks like monthly 4-course dinner for one, two or more + seasonal craft cocktail hour with passed bites. Other opportunities to support include purchase of single supper club dinner or lunchbox, having your name or the name of a loved one placed on the menu or purchasing a Hudson Jane tote bag for $25 dollars.

Hudson Jane doesn’t have a phone number just yet, but please follow them on Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest to learn more about them and follow their progress thru to opening.

Hudson Jane, 360 Myrtle Avenue, corner of Adelphi.

360-myrtle-ave-new-storefront_2014-1-2

NYC Parks & UNIQLO Sponsor Open Call for Public Art

uniqlo-press-conference_fortgreene-park_2016_iiLast week, NYC Parks Commissioner Mitchell J. Silver joined UNIQLO USA CEO, artist Alexandre Arrechea, local elected officials, and community members at Fort Greene Park to announce a partnership that will bring more public art to city parks. UNIQLO has committed $200,000 to the Art in the Parks: UNIQLO Park Expressions Grant to install original artworks by a rotating roster of New York City-based artists in 10 destination parks. The chosen locations are Joyce Kilmer Park and Virginia Park in the Bronx; Fort Greene Park and Herbert Von King Park in Brooklyn; Thomas Jefferson Park and Seward Park in Manhattan; Flushing Meadows Corona Park and Rufus King Park in Queens; and Tappen Park and Faber Park in Staten Island.

Grant recipients will be selected through an open application process and will be chosen by a committee of arts professionals from the five boroughs, as well as NYC Parks and UNIQLO USA representatives. Proposals will be judged according to artistic and creative merit, response to the surrounding community, and suitability to the site. Priority will be given to proposals that respond directly to the park and its neighborhood. The deadline for submissions is November 13, 2016. For information about upcoming grant info sessions and details about how to apply, visit the project webpage.

The first round of artists will be announced in January 2017, with their artworks going on display in spring 2017.

Photos by: Daniel Avila/NYC Parks

Football Fun on Myrtle Avenue

five-spot-soul-food_football-games_brooklyn_2016Sundays are fun football days at Five Spot Soul Food. The neighborhood staple is tailgating from noon to 6pm with live games via Direct TV. Come join in and have a free hot dog when you purchase a pint of draft beer. Smoked hot dogs are available for $2 and for a buck more, you can get a $3 smoked brisket sandwich.  Buffalo wings are available for 50-cents a piece.  Five Spot also offers the following: $12 pitchers (domestic) on Sundays, $1 Blue Point Oysters, $7 Frozen Margaritas all day on Mondays,  $7 Long Island Iced Teas all day on Thursday & more!
Five Spot Soul Food, 459 Myrtle Avenue at Washington Avenue
(718) 852-0202  

the-emerson-storefront-768Football is also on full display at The Emerson Bar, the mellow Clinton Hill hang out with craft cocktails, draft beer & a relaxing garden patio.  The game is shown at 1pm sharp on Sundays with a special of $1 off all bottled beer all day, $3 Bud Light and Highlife. More games show on Monday night with $6 Rolling Rock and shot combo.
The Emerson, 561 Myrtle between Emerson and Classon
(347) 762-1310 

putnams-myrtle-avenue-sidewalk-cafe-728Putnam’s Pub & Cooker, the relaxed gastropub with extensive selections of upscale pub grub and local craft brews, will show all New York games on Sunday and also feature the locally cast games. They have rotating beer specials during all games. Check out their bar menu here.
Putnam’s Pub & Cooker, 419 Myrtle Avenue
(347) 799-2382

 

Myrtle Goes TEAL for Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

TEAL Month_2016 (25)

September marks ovarian cancer awareness month and you may find teal ribbons along Myrtle Avenue promoting the national campaign that is spearheaded by Tell Every Amazing Lady (TEAL), an ovarian cancer awareness group that began in Brooklyn in 2009.

The Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership, along with Myrtle Avenue’s small businesses have teamed up with TEAL to place ribbons upon the district’s street trees and storefronts. Since TEAL’s primary mission is to educate women about ovarian cancer and to raise funding for research, several businesses are providing an opportunity for their customers to easily donate to the organization:
teal-month_corkscrew_2016-768

Corkscrew Wines: Purchase a bottle of Sequals Friulano (it boasts a teal label) and $1 from the sale will be donated to TEAL to support their annual TEAL Walk.

pecks_teal-month-cookies_2016-260Peck’s: Throughout September, Peck’s traditional black and white cookie will become teal and white. Profits from cookie sales will be donated to TEAL.

21 Tara: Purchase a teal beaded bracelet – available for $10 – and $1 will be donated to TEAL.

To learn more about, donate to, or sign-up for the annual walk in Prospect Park on Sept. 10th, visit the TEAL website.

Thank You to Our 2016-2017 Sponsors!

airbnb

50 banners now grace Myrtle Avenue’s historic streetlights, from Flatbush Extension to Classon Avenue.  These banners sponsors support our work with our local businesses, community partners & residents in Fort Greene, Clinton Hill & Wallabout, Brooklyn.

A big thank you to all our banner sponsors for 2016-17:
Aufgang Architects, Airbnb, Apple Bank, Bergen Bagels On Myrtle, Brooklyn Family Dental, The Brooklyn Hospital Center, BKG Coffee Roasters (Brewklyn), The Corcoran Group, Gentleman Farmer Fort Greene, Green in BKLYN, Key Food, LIU Brooklyn, Madison Realty Capital, Park Avenue Building & Roofing Supplies, Putnam’s Pub & Cooker, Pratt Institute, St. Francis College Brooklyn, St. Joseph’s College NY, & TD Bank & our 2016 Sponsors: Doug Bowen, Douglas Elliman. Thank you for helping us create job opportunities for local youth, improve the neighborhood for older adults, expand access to affordable healthy food & more.

View our Myrtle Avenue businesses’ banners in this slideshow below:


madison-realty-capitalIf you are interested in sponsoring our neighborhood initiatives please contact rebeca@myrtleavenue.org.

Cheap Lunch Eats at Cultura Pan Latin Cooking

cultura_corn_2016-4We love that Cultura Pan Latin Cooking  highlights delicious dishes from all across Latin America, stop in for their $5 to $10 lunch specials.

Try a Bowl, Burrito, or Quesadilla for only $7. Choice of filling with white rice, beans, Mexican salsita, pico de gallo, sour cream, & queso fresco. Served with side mixed greens salad. Add guacamole for $2. Fill it with grilled chicken, seasonal vegetables, Dominican Beer-Battered fish, grilled shrimp w/ onions, peppers, & chimichurri Argentino or carne asada.

If you try the Quesadilla Antigua, the Old-fashioned Mexican quesadilla with cheese blend and choice of filling it is served with small side salad, guacamole, and pickled onions. Order plain cheese or add chicken, vegetables, ropa vieja (shredded beef slow cooked with peppers and onions in tomato sauce) or grilled shrimp.

Sandwiches are available for $10 and they are served on torta bread with either homemade french fries or side salad. Try the Cubano Perfecto with Mojo-marinated roast pork, swiss cheese, smoked ham, pickled cucumbers, and mustard or the Torta de Pescado with breaded fish, carrots, zucchini, onions, cheese, and smokey chipotle aioli. The Ropa Vieja is another option of Old-school Cuban ropa vieja (shredded beef slow stewed in tomato sauce with onions and peppers).

Arepas Rellenas are delcious. The $7 sweet corn arepas are stuffed with queso fresco fundido. Served with baby mixed greens salad and sour cream.

Additional Fillings: Vegetables $2:  Collard greens / tomatoes / green tomatillo sauce
Ropa Vieja  – $2:  Braised short ribs / peppers / onions / tomato sauce
Camarones  $3: Shrimp / peppers / onion / chimichurri argentino

*20% off to Pratt and St. Joseph’s students & staff with ID.

Cultura Pan Latin Cooking 413 Myrtle Avenue, just west of Clinton Avenue
(718) 855-8106

CulturaPanLatin_Enchiladas_2016

Rendering Revealed for New 501 Myrtle Ave

501 Myrtle

A rendering of the new building planned at 501 Myrtle Avenue has been posted on the construction fence.  The new project replaces a one-story building which housed Sapolo restaurant at the corner of Myrtle Avenue and Ryerson Street.

In November 2014, property owners filed plans to construct a six story, mixed-use building on the site.  Once completed, the ground floor will house an 1,800 square foot commercial space, with ten apartments spread across the upper-floors.  The building was designed by Raymond Chan Architect.

This construction project is one of five new buildings currently being built along Myrtle Avenue in Clinton Hill.  In addition, construction work is underway for the new Myrtle Avenue Plaza, which is slated to be complete in late 2016.  Find more details about these various construction projects here.

 

La Rina Is Open for Business

LaRina_Storefront_ 2016_900 for slideshowA very BIG welcome and congratulations to LaRina, which opened on Myrtle Avenue this month.

The new Fort Greene restaurant, La Rina Pastaficio & Vino (pasta factory and wines) owned by Giulia Pelliccioni and head chef, Sylvia Barban, both also of Aita restaurant in Clinton Hill, opened their doors at 387 Myrtle Avenue in Fort Greene last week. Giulia also owns Aita Trattoria in Crown Heights.

La Rina makes housemade dry and fresh pastas as well as a range of Italian dishes and wines.

Both owners are originally from Italy, Giulia from Central and Chef Sylvia from Southern Italy, but their menu will reflect menu items from a wide variety of regions in Italy.

LaRina will have an inventive menu, with a wide variety of wines, small plates and a focus on fresh, delicious and affordable.

LaRina Pastificio & Vino, 387 Myrtle Avenue between Vanderbilt & Clermont
(718) 852-0001 

AFROPUNK BROOKLYN 8/27 & 8/28

AFropunk Fest BrooklynAFROPUNK returns to Commodore Barry Park in Fort Greene, Brooklyn this summer; now in its 11th year the weekend music festival (August 27th & 28th) is jam packed with live music on three stages, a festival and good summer vibes all around.

Described by The New York Times as “the most multicultural festival in the US;”  this year the line up features headliners such as the newly Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inducted Ice Cube, Tyler the Creator, Flying Lotus, Janelle Monae, TV on the Radio, The Internet, Parliament/Funkadelic legend George Clinton & more. More than just a weekend in Brooklyn, the AFROPUNK movement expands into international terrain too, experiencing it on its home turf makes AFROPUNK BROOKLYN that much more special.

Click HERE for the full line up.
Click HERE for tickets.

Come sundown, AFROPUNK BROOKLYN will extend the festival experience and creep into the streets, bars, and restaurants of Myrtle Avenue for AFROPUNK After Dark. Dance to a celebrity DJ set, enjoy pop-up performances, film screenings, art installations, & drink specials. The park might close, but the party keeps going on Myrtle & beyond.

Dining the Sidewalk Cafes of Myrtle Ave

Summer is the perfect time to stroll the neighborhood and find all the places you would like to try infused cocktails & summer recipes.  Make sure to swing by all of our sidewalk cafes and enjoy dining outdoors on Myrtle Avenue this summer.

Lulu & Po_Sidewalk CafeLulu & Po, the cozy Brooklyn neighborhood eatery that serves New American food with great wine and classic cocktails is said to “offer a shot at sweet redemption, along with a menu that fits perfectly into today’s local-and-seasonal small-plates Zeitgeist“. Head to the lovely Carlton block, eat, drink and relax with small-plate fare plus craft cocktails in a casual, pocket-size venue. We recommend the spanish octopus or the burger (voted best by DNA info). Menu here.
Lulu & Po, 154 Carlton at Myrtle Avenue
(917) 435-3745

Los Pollitos StorefrontLos Pollitos III has a wonderful sidewalk cafe at the corner of Myrtle and Ryerson.  Stop in and enjoy dining curbside with delicious Mexican fare such as burritos, tacos (hard or soft shell), quesadillas and more.  Los Pollitos III is known for its classic guacamole & chips made fresh with tomatoes, cilantro, jalapeno and the the well-known margaritas during happy hour (frozen fruity flavors). We recommend the tortilla soup & crispy flautas. Menu here.
Los Pollitos III,  499 Myrtle Avenue at Ryerson
(718) 636-6125

A “go-to destination in Clinton Hill”, Putnam’s Pub & Cooker, is a relaxed gastropub, on Clinton & Myrtle Avenue with extensive selections of pub grub, entrees & local craft brews. The pub offers 24 quality draft beers, 40 quality bottled beers, 2 highly unique cask ales, an extensive wine menu and delicious assortment of small plates, salads and large plates for lunch and dinner and weekend brunch. Take a seat in the inviting sidewalk cafe and enjoy the neighborhood life. Fish Tacos are a must. Hours of happiness are from 4pm-7pm Monday -Friday. See menu here.
Putnam’s Pub & Cooker, 419 Myrtle Avenue at Clinton Avenue
(347) 799-2382

 

Sandbox Pack & Ship New Mobile Shipping Service

Sandbox - sized 900Sandbox Pack and Ship, located at 417 Myrtle Avenue between Clinton and Vanderbilt Avenues, has a new mobile shipping service.

Do you have packages or boxes to ship? Are you tired of long post office lines? Is there just not quite enough time in the day to carve out for necessary postal business?

Please consider Sandbox Pack & Ship’s new mobile shipping service! Call Sandbox at (844) 854-2819 or check them out online at http://www.sandboxmobilecrew.com to schedule a pick up, right from your front door. Mobile shipping available M thru F from 10am to 10pm.

No time to pack the box properly? No problem – Sandbox has you covered again. Their full service van allows them to take care of package/box packing and wrapping, weighing and shipping (incl USPS, UPS and/or FedEx, your delivery method of choice) and they can handle cash or credit card transactions. Sandbox will calculate the cheapest and most practical service for the specific date that you need your package to arrive. All done onsite at pickup.

The only “catch” is this: call or go online to make your arrangements at least 30 minutes before you need the package to be picked up.  Enjoy the convenience of no muss, no fuss, right from your very door shipping.

Whether you are shipping a package out for your business or a birthday present to a family member, Sandbox has got you covered from any location in Brooklyn.

To take advantage of any of the special offers below, please mention “Myrtle Avenue” when you call or make arrangements online:

Special Offers:

  • Pickup fee waived the first time for any shipping transaction of $50+
  • 15% off the total of any 5 packages or more.
  • Check out Sandbox’s new video about their mobile services below:

Sandbox Pack & Ship,  417 Myrtle Avenue between Vanderbilt & Clinton Avenues
(844) 854-2819