Category Archives: District News

Name: Wine Tasting at Tipsy
Start: 2026-06-26T18:00:00-04:00
End: 2026-06-26T20:00:00-04:00
Location: Tipsy

Local Students Work and Learn in Tech

Congratulations to the 2017 cohort of teens who participated in the Young Entrepreneur Mentorship Program (YEMP) of the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership this summer. This is the eleventh year of the YEMP program and the first year of partnering with Pratt to bring a more STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math ) exposure to the program.

Sixteen local high school students completed the program which took place over the course of 6 weeks and included 20 hours in the classroom and 100 work hours.

This year’s hands-on project for the students in the classroom was a collaboration with 3D Brooklyn. With their help, students learned about 3D printing and AutoCad design. Both skills were utilized by the students when they worked in teams to design and create an everyday product. The creative outcomes included fidget spinners, taco holders, jewelry pendants and personalized cell phone cases. The students also took a trip to the Brooklyn Navy Yard to visit local manufacturers such as Situ Fabricators and were visited by a host of speakers, including Sue Rock, Electra Jarvis and Keith Kirkland. For the work experience, students worked primarily with Myrtle Avenue small businesses but a few were placed with a few of the Pratt Center’s Made in NYC local manufacturing businesses as well.

Last week, the students presented the final products at Pratt Institute to their peers, parents, program partners and other guests.

2017 YEMP Students:

Anoor Ajala, Brianna-Monet Locklear, Corinne Court, Diyanna Hill, Dylan Gongora, Jonah Fields, Jontae Martin, Kaylynn Denis, Kennedi Watson, Laura Williams, Maya Simeon, Melissa Munoz-Bohorquez, Mikyle Dixon, Nyasia Dieudonne, Quianna Minnot, and Sarah Gbobo.

Local Business Partners:

Program Partners:

Pratt Center for Community Development
Pratt Institute Center for Art, Design, and Community Engagement K-12
Teens That Mean Business at Emmanuel Baptist Church

Support for the Young Entrepreneur Mentorship Program (YEMP) comes from Brooklyn Community Foundation, Con Edison, and Deutsche Bank Americas Foundation, and Emmanuel Baptist Church.

Young Entrepreneur Mentorship Program Kicks Off For 2017

Summer employment program returns with new community partners.

YEMP Focus Group at Pratt Center

Now in its 11th year, the Young Entrepreneur Mentorship Program (YEMP) reaches new heights with an exciting partnership with the Pratt Center. Through this partnership, local high school students are taking part in a pre-college design workshop that introduces the group to the design process and 3D printing! Aptly named Design Process: From Sketch to Prototype, the class will challenge students to investigate a design problem and use opensource 3D drawing software and 3D printing to take their ideas from sketch to a printed 3D model.

YEMP History

YEMP is a summer employment and mentorship program for local youth where teens gain valuable paid work experiences. The program places teens to work with Myrtle Avenue businesses and other organizations to learn important business and creative problem-solving skills. The competitive application process only accommodates 25 high school teens per year. Applicants from zip code 11205, the Ingersoll Houses, or the Whitman Houses receive priority.

This Year

Local businesses on Myrtle Avenue are joining the cause as well. Corkscrew Wines Brooklyn, CVS, Emmanuel Baptist Church, Fort Greene SNAP, Gnarly Vines, Green in BKLYN, NYC Pets, and Sandbox and others have offered these rising entrepreneurs an inside look into what it takes to run a business.

The 6-week program runs from July 10 – August 18. Be sure to sign up for our email list and give us a like on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to follow the incredible journey of our community’s youth and more.

Support for YEMP comes from Brooklyn Community Foundation, Con Edison, and Deutsche Bank Americas Foundation, and Emmanuel Baptist Church.

“Hate Has No Business Here” Resounds Across NYC

Community members come together to counter messages of hate and intolerance.

Image by News 12 Anchor @katievasqueztv

From Flatbush to Flushing the message that hate has no business in our communities, especially as it pertains to our small business communities is spreading. We will be forever inspired by the dozens of NYC merchants proudly making this simple gesture of acceptance and unity. Just take a look at the hashtag, “nohatehere,” trending on Instagram.

Press about the “Hate Has No Business Here” campaign.

Brooklyn Shops Campaign for Unity and Peace, News 12 with Katie Vasquez

New York Today, June 30, The New York Times

Small Businesses Across NYC Have Launched a New Campaign to Promote Inclusiveness, Time Out New York

Jackson Heights Businesses Have a Message for Customers: All are Welcome

Myrtle Avenue BID’s anti-hate campaign goes citywide, Brooklyn Downtown Star

MARP Launches Citywide “Hate Has No Business Here” Campaign, BK Reader

Hate Has No Business Here Canvases Jerome-Gun Hill BID

‘Hate has No Business Here’ campaign comes to Queens

Trumping hate: Myrtle Ave. shopkeepers promote inclusivity with new campaign, Brooklyn Paper

Thank you to the wonderful community of Business Improvement Districts that have united with us to spread this message, and thank you to the powerful local merchants who bravely stand beside us and say…

Hate Has No Business Here—not in this country, not in this city, not in our businesses and not in our hearts. So this Independence Day, we’re standing together, for each other. Because love is the most patriotic thing we can do.

Find out more about this powerful message at www.hatehasnobusinesshere.com

Myrtle Avenue Merchants Unite Against Hate

“Hate Has No Business Here” campaign launches in 21 NYC business improvement districts

This new campaign will rollout at 21 business improvement districts across the city this week. With this simple message, the campaign aims to inspire a conversation to combat narratives that purport racism, xenophobia, homophobia, and misogyny, especially as they impact our city’s small business community.

The idea for a cohesive campaign originated with Amanda Neville, Myrtle Avenue business owner at TIPSY. “One of the business owners along Myrtle Avenue was targeted with hateful comments via social media immediately after the election,” explains Neville. “Many of us along Myrtle Avenue were trying to speak out against divisiveness and hate. I thought it would be powerful to come together with one message, one visual to signal that we stand together, for each other.”

“Our city’s small business community is incredibly diverse. We are not only embracing that diversity through this campaign, we are rejecting rhetoric that challenges how valuable it is,” says Meredith Phillips Almeida, Executive Director, Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership. “We timed the campaign to coincide with Independence Day because we believe that one of the most patriotic things you can do is love your neighbors.”

The group is also providing free digital logos and flyers to others who want to join their movement.

For the free downloads and a full list of participating BIDs, go to

hatehasnobusinesshere.com

Three Anticipated Openings on Myrtle Avenue

We’re teeming with excitement for the opening of three, much-anticipated businesses on Myrtle Avenue: Pipsqueak Children’s Shoppe, Dépanneur and Hudson Jane.

The family owners behind Pipsqueak opened their first location in Bed-Stuy after experiencing first hand just how hard it was to find a local gift for their one-year-old cousin. Their second location, right here on Myrtle Avenue, will offer up quality products for newborn babies and 1 to 8-year-olds.

Pipsqueak Children’s Shoppe
469 Myrtle Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11205

To find out more about Pipsqueak Children’s Shoppe visit their website at www.pipsqueakshoppe.com and their regularly updated Instagram and Facebook.

Dépanneur, essentially the French Canadian word for Bodega, also selected Myrtle Avenue for its second location. This not-so-average corner store will become an excellent stop for quick but crafted sandwiches (just look at their Instagram), quality coffee and other pantry staples.

You won’t have to wait long. Dépanneur opens Saturday, July 1st.

Dépanneur
519 Myrtle Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11205

To find out more about Dépanneur visit their website at www.depanneur.com and their regularly updated Instagram and Facebook and Twitter.

Meg and Jen, the principle duo behind Hudson Jane, have been hard at work renovating the space at 360 Myrtle Avenue. Although we don’t have an official opening date, we’re expecting to see the wine flowing by early July. The general theme is an all day cafe and wine bar, but we’re intrigued by the super club membership option, which includes a once a month weekend dinner for members only.

Hudson Jane
360 Myrtle Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11205

Read more about Hudson Jane on their website, www.hudsonjane.com, Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook.

Fun, Fit and Free on Myrtle Avenue

Myrtle Avenue has a number of gym-free and cost-free opportunities for community members of all ages to stretch, ride and thrive. Take advantage of this great city with these neighborhood offerings.

Free Community Bike Rides

Join Shaquana and our Healthy Communities program team for a spin around the neighborhood. No bike? No problem. You can borrow a FREE Citi Bike (ages 16+). The group meets every 2nd Saturday of the month. Beginners welcome!

Find the next community ride here.

Free, Donation, and Sliding Scale Yoga at Sacred

Sacred is one of Brooklyn’s best yoga studios and we’re so happy to have their second location right here on Myrtle Avenue. Every Saturday Sacred hosts free and donation based community classes. This is a great way to try out the studio and meet new friends. Mat & towel rentals by suggested donation of $2/Mat and $1/Towel. Filtered water is provided, however, be sure to bring your own water bottle.

Follow Sacred’s Fort Greene updates here.

Free Yoga at the Fort Greene Park Monument

Free Yoga overlooking the Manhattan skyline? Yes please! This annual fitness series is the perfect way to shake off the stresses of your workweek. Be sure to bring your own yoga mat. The group meets near the Fort Greene Park monument which is a paved area of the park.

Free RSVP here to join the next class.

Free “Shape Up NYC” Zumba Class

Get moving with our own Healthy Communities Assistant, Simone Colbert. Each Monday 5:30-6:60 p.m. Simone teaches a free Zumba class at the Cumberland Diagnostic Treatment Center. The class meets in the 4th Floor Auditorium. You do not need to be a member to join the session.

Discover more Shape Up NYC Fitness classes here.

Free Walking Tours

Join these free guided walking tours to learn about the fascinating history of Fort Greene Park and the surrounding neighborhoods. Two distinct tour groups meeting on select Saturdays now until this fall.

Free RSVP for the Historic Wallabout Walking Tour Here.
Free RSVP for the Walt Whitman Walking Tour of Fort Greene Park Here.

With all of these great events happening right here in the neighborhood, you have every excuse to go out and enjoy the fair weather. Stay up to date with more happenings on Myrtle Avenue by following us at Facebook.com/MyrtleAveBrooklyn.

Now Open: 569 Juice Box

A fitting name for this adorable sidewalk store front scrunched between the Citgo gas station of Classon and and Shic by Soketah on Myrtle, 569 Juice Box has charm, Brooklyn authenticity, and best of all, fresh bubble tea and delicious smoothies.

Open Monday through Saturday 8 a.m. – 6:15 p.m. and 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Sundays, this brand new juice stop arrived just in time for another hot summer on Myrtle Avenue. Be sure to drop in and give it a try!

American / Comfort Food

Art, Framing & Galleries

Automotive Services & Gas Stations

Bakery & Sweets

Banks & Financial Services

Bars & Pubs

Beauty Salons, Barber Shops & Spas

Clothing & Accessories

Coffee Shops & Cafés

Community Services

Computer & Communications

Delis & Small Grocers

Discount Stores

Dry Cleaners & Laundromats

Medical Services & Pharmacies

Tobacco and Vape shops

Wine & Spirits

Myrtle Avenue Wins Innovation Grant

We're thrilled to announce that Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership is among the five recipients of the "Neighborhood Challenge" competitive grant administrated by NYC Small Business Services (SBS). This new funding will support a partnership that aims to help low income residents of Fort Greene and Clinton Hill identify federal, state, and local benefits available to them. In a joint proposal with the Brooklyn-based financial literacy technology platform, Benefit Kitchen, Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership outlined the steps needed to create a Myrtle Avenue-branded outreach app that will screen eligibility for 18 government benefits along with local promotions. Myrtle Avenue’s proposal was selected from a pool of 12 finalists from all five boroughs after making a 3-minute pitch to a panel of judges that included by representatives from Robin Hood, AOL, and City agencies. "This technology will help families struggling to meet their needs locally, by connecting them to benefits they already qualify for." Added Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership Executive Director, Meredith Phillips Almeida. "There's even a robust local component that will connect community members to benefits offered by Myrtle Avenue merchants, and many of our programs like the Fresh Pantry and Farm Fresh Box." By increasing access to benefit programs, this application has the potential to increase the amount of disposable income for cash-strapped households. Additional competition winners include the Chinatown Partnership; Downtown Brooklyn Partnership in partnership with the DUMBO Improvement District; Long Island City Partnership; and the Rockaway Business Alliance. For more information about the Neighborhood Challenge program, competition winners and additional finalists visit the NYC SBS announcement here.

Now Open: Perfect Look Salon

Perfect Look Salon owner, Shehnez.

A new salon has opened in Clinton Hill, offering a unique menu of new services not yet seen in neighborhood. The new Perfect Look Salon offers Traditional services like waxing and facials are complimented by eyebrow threading and henna. The new salon opened this week at 146 Waverly Avenue, just off of Myrtle Avenue next to Spice & Grill restaurant. In addition to standard pricing, three-month Membership Packages are also available for those looking to save on frequent visits. Their full slate of services is available to view below. Salon owner, Shehnez, is looking forward to welcoming new clients to the salon, which accepts both appointments and walk-ins. Perfect Look Salon, 146 Waverly Avenue, (347) 689-9865.

Construction Projects Continue on Myrtle Avenue

Like much of Brooklyn, Myrtle Avenue in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill is seeing many new buildings under construction. With almost a dozen construction projects underway or planned, it's easy to loose track of what is being built where. To help keep it all straight, we've put together a recap of all the local projects.

Along Myrtle Avenue in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill, there are 11 new construction projects currently under construction or planned. Combined, these projects will add 978 new housing units and 52,000 square feet of new ground-floor commercial space.

402 Myrtle Avenue

The site of a Chase Bank, at the corner of Myrtle and Vanderbilt Avenues, will see a four-story addition added above the branch. Plans filed in May 2017 call for 10 new housing units to sit above the bank, which plans to remain open during and after construction.

The project is designed by Isaac Stern Architects.

137 Carlton Avenue

Located just off of Myrtle Avenue, 137 Carlton Avenue currently houses a one-story building that was recently home to the deli Carlton Grocery. Plans filed in May 2017, still pending approval, call for a new five-story building, with six residential units.

The project is designed by Murat Mutlu Architect. A rendering of the new building has not yet been released.

341 Myrtle Avenue

Located between Carlton Avenue and Adelphi Street, 341 Myrtle Avenue is the long-time home of Worldwide Discount Store. The three-story building currently has two vacant floors above the discount store. New plans filed in April 2017 call for the demolition of the existing structure, with a new six-story building rising in its place. A 2,200 square foot commercial space would remain on the ground floor, with new eight housing units slated for above.

Plans submitted to the Department of Buildings are still pending approval.

504 Myrtle Avenue

Former site of the Pratt Station Post Office, between Grand Avenue and Ryerson Street, this new eight-story building will have 141 apartments and 20,000 square feet of retail space on the ground floor. 28 apartments are slated to be filled through an affordable housing lottery, which took place earlier in 2017.

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

501 Myrtle Avenue

In November 2014, the owners of Sapolo restaurant filed plans to construction a new six-story building. The plans call for a 1,700 square foot commercial space on the ground floor, with ten units of housing above.

Sapolo Restaurant has closed to prepare for construction, with no plans announced as to whether or not the restaurant may return.

86 Fleet Place

The fourth and final Myrtle Avenue development by John Catsimatidis' Red Apple Group will be a 32-story tower. The building will include 440 apartments, with 10,813 square feet of ground-floor retail space. Up to four storefronts are currently available to lease through Winick Retail Specialists.

The building was designed by Goldstein, Hill & West Architects.

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. Plans call for 46 apartments and 8,050 square feet of commercial space on the ground floor.

Though new building permits were issued in June 2015, construction work has not yet begun.

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

Plaza Construction at Hall Street_April_ 2016 (6)

Myrtle Avenue Plaza

Final construction activities are 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. The opening of the completed plaza is expected for summer 2017.

531 Myrtle Avenue: Former site of White Castle, at the corner of Steuben Street.

COMPLETED PROJECT: 531 Myrtle Avenue

Former site of White Castle, at the corner of Steuben Street, this new five-story development has 6,000 square feet of retail space on the ground floor with 27 apartments above. Two commercial tenants have been announced, including the European Wax Center and The Commissary Kitchen.

The project is being developed by Greystone Property Development and was designed by AB Architekten. Commercial space is currently available to lease through RKF.

525 Myrtle Avenue: Former site of Myrtle Car between Steuben and Grand Ave.

COMPLETED PROJECT: 525 Myrtle Avenue

Former site of Myrtle Car Service, between Grand Avenue and Steuben Street, now holds a seven-story building with 22 apartments on the upper floors and 2,650 square feet of commercial condo space available on the ground floor.

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

491 Myrtle Avenue: Five story building planned, with commercial space on the ground floor and apartments above.

COMPLETED PROJECT: 491 Myrtle Avenue

This formerly vacant lot (which witnessed a building collapse in 2009), is home to a new five-story mixed-use building. The new building houses six new apartments and 1,220 square feet of commercial space, currently available to lease through Winick.

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

COMPLETED PROJECT: The Margo, 180 Myrtle Avenue

This fifteen-floor building holds 228 apartments on the upper-floors, with 10,603 square feet of commercial space and 500 square feet of community facility space on the ground floor. The building also houses a garage in the basement with 133 parking spaces. Up to ten groundfloor storefronts are currently available to lease, marketed by Winick Retail Specialists.

The property was ideveloped by Red Apple Development Group and was designed by Dattner Architects.

COMPLETED PROJECT: The Giovanni, 81 Fleet Place

This fifteen-floor building houses 205 apartments on the upper floors, with 11,773 square feet of commercial space on the ground floor. The building also includes a 150-space commercial parking garage.

Up to five storefronts available to lease through Winick Retail Specialists. Three storefronts have already been leased to Wine Legend, a full-service wine shop, Gold Coast Bank (now open), and an independently-owned accountant.

The property was developed by Red Apple Development Group and was designed by Dattner Architects.

Room for Local Business Growth

The new buildings rising on Myrtle Avenue will bring many new storefronts and opportunities for the commercial district to serve the daily needs of local residents. In total, these 11 buildings will add up to 26 new storefronts, growing Myrtle Avenue’s commercial footprint by 13%.

“In conversations with property owners and brokers of these new spaces, we’ve advocated for businesses that are most in demand by local residents. Our recent consumer surveys and a district retail assessment found opportunity in sectors like specialty food shops (butchers and ice cream), family clothing, boutique retailers, and services like gyms and urgent care, so we’ve focused our business attraction efforts in these categories.”- Meredith Phillips Almeida, Executive Director, Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership

Click here to view a list of available retail spaces or to view the current business attraction brochure, It’s On Myrtle Avenue.

Share Your Ideas: Events in the Myrtle Avenue Plaza

Soon the Myrtle Avenue Plaza will be a space for neighborhood residents to enjoy lunch, gather with friends and neighbors, or simply sit and what the world go by. It'll also be a space that'll play host to local events and fun programs. Have an idea of an event that you'd like to see take place in the new plaza? Submit your idea by clicking here.

The New York City Department of Design & Construction is currently wrapping up Myrtle Avenue Plaza final construction work, with an opening planned for summer 2017.

Now Open: U-gu Sushi Restaurant

Clinton Hill has a new sushi bar starting today, with the opening of U-gu on Myrtle Avenue. The spot serves up classic and signature rolls, but offers up something unique with their "create your own" sushi bowls. Click here to view their full menu. The restaurant is now open at 541B Myrtle Avenue, between Steuben and Emerson. Lunch specials for under $10 are also available. U-gu, 541B Myrtle Avenue, (718) 857-0222.

June 6th Celebration & Benefit to Honor Dr. Schutte

The Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership Board of Directors & the Host Committee invite you to celebrate Thomas F. Schutte. After more than two decades as President of Pratt Institute, Dr. Schutte will retire this June. Join us to honor his vision and service to our community on Tuesday, June 6th, 5:30pm-8pm. Come enjoy drinks, hors d'oeuvres & entertainment. BUY TICKETS HERE. All proceeds from ticket sales & silent auction will benefit Myrtle Avenue Revitalization Project & the newly established Tess & Tom Schutte Community Arts & Culture Fund. The Fund will bring public sculpture, cultural events, and exhibitions to the public spaces and storefronts of Myrtle Avenue, leveraging our neighborhood’s creative capital to create opportunities for local artists and increase access to art for community members. When you purchase tickets, you can also make a donation directly to this fund to honor and continue Dr. Schutte's commitment to the arts in our community. Host Committee: Michael Blaise Backer, Seth Edwards, Bernell K. Grier, Gary Hattem, Rob Walsh, Antonia Yuille, New York City Public Advocate Letitia "Tish" James, New York State Senator Velmanette Montgomery, New York State Assembly Member Joseph R. Lentol, New York State Assembly Member Walter T. Mosley, New York City Council Member Laurie A. Cumbo, New York City Council Member Brad Lander A limited number of discount community tickets are available. Email rebeca@myrtleavenue.org for information.

Generous support for this event is provided by:

Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership, TD Bank, Pratt Institute, Brooklyn Sweet Spot, Cardiff Giant, Gnarly Vines, Jill Lindsey, St. Joseph's College.

Mother’s Day: A How-To Guide

Mother's Day is just around the corner...again! According to our sources, local mothers find it surprising how often their children, spouses or significant others forget to show appreciation on the annual holiday. "What happened?" they ask. Fear not, we've created a step-by-step action plan for those of you who need help in celebrating the mothers in your lives.

STEP 1: MAKE BRUNCH RESERVATIONS

Perhaps the nicest and most classic way to celebrate mom is with a relaxing Sunday brunch. Lots of great options on Myrtle Avenue, but all of them with limited seating, so hurry and make your reservation ASAP. A few suggestions: SoCo, Putnam's Pub & Cooker, Larina, Bar Bolinas, Gentleman Farmer, Myrtle + Gold, Da Ciro, and the list goes on. You can always keep it casual with a lovely picnic in Fort Greene Park. Grab some carry-out from Myrtle Bagel, Peck's, or Bergen Bagel and be on your way. Don't forget to bring a blanket.

Gift options abound at 21 Tara, 388 Myrtle Ave.

STEP 2: BUY A GIFT

When it comes to buying a gift, the options can be overwhelming. Try to see life through the eyes of a mom. If you're shopping for a...

Stylish mom, get great apparel or home goods options available at local boutique shops.
Fit and Active mom, ask about classes or supplies from these yoga studios and bike shops.
Pampered mom, get a treatment or gift card to one of these salons or spas.
Foodie mom, a nice bottle of wine or specialty food is generally always a safe bet.

Greeting card from Green in BKLYN (432 Myrtle Ave)

STEP 3: (IT'S NOT HARD) BUY A CARD

Local pharmacies (see the full list here) carry a full selection of cards at just about every price point. But if you're looking for something with an extra special touch, we recommend a visit to Green in Bklyn or Jill Lindsey.

STEP 4: BUY FLOWERS

Plenty of local shops carry fresh-cut flowers - including Greeneville Garden and Khim's Millenium Market, - but for a full selection of floral arrangements pay a visit Julio at Bella Rosa Flowers and Gifts.

STEP 5: LEAVE

Image courtesy of “What to Expect When You’re Expecting”

Moms need a little peace and quiet too sometimes. Grab the kids and give the lady an hour or two for herself. Meanwhile, enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done.

Now Open: Sacred Yoga on Myrtle

Sacred Yoga is now open at 334 Myrtle Avenue in Fort Greene.

Fort Greene yogis have a new studio in the neighborhood where they can stretch, breath and meditate. Sacred Yoga officially opens its doors today at their second studio location at 334 Myrtle Avenue, between Carlton Avenue and Washington Park. Sacred Yoga - whose original location is in Clinton Hill on Clifton Place near Bedford Avenue - offers a full schedule of yoga, dance, and fitness classes. New visitors can easily, and affordably, test out the new studio with a $20 offer for two weeks of unlimited classes. The studio also offers a number of weekly classes for free or at a sliding scale. Sacred Yoga, 334 Myrtle Avenue. (347) 715-4112.

Four Stories to Rise Above Chase Bank

402 Myrtle Avenue, at the corner of Vanderbilt Avenue, in Clinton Hill.

New housing is slated for Myrtle Avenue in Clinton Hill, according to permits filed with the NYC Department of Buildings. Plans submitted by the property owner call for a five-story building to occupy the corner site, with a mix of residential and commercial space. The ground floor, currently home to a Chase Bank branch, will retain the existing 3,884 square feet of commercial space as 10 new housing units spread across 8,627 square feet rise on the upper floors, increasing the building height to 60 feet, about 12 feet higher than 406 Myrtle Avenue, the four-story building next door. According to the branch manager at Chase, the bank will remain in place and continue to operate through the construction. The architect on file for the project is Isaac Stern Architects, the same firm that provided designs for the recently completed five-story building at 491 Myrtle Avenue, between Hall and Ryerson streets. Preliminary plans for the addition were filed with the NYC Department of Buildings on April 28th and are still awaiting approval. For our full round up of construction projects taking place along Myrtle Avenue in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill, click here.

Now Open: Gold Coast Bank

Image Source: Gold Coast Bank.

Gold Coast bank made their New York City debut this week with their official opening of the new branch in Fort Greene. The Long Island-based bank opened their seventh branch with a big celebration this week at 176 Myrtle Avenue. Branch Manager LaVasia Peterson and her team are excited to welcome community members who are looking for a new, and locally based, banking option. Visit Gold Coast Bank online to learn more about their various banking products, including personal and business checking and savings accounts. Gold Coast Bank, 176 Myrtle Avenue, (929) 295-8104.

Myrtle Avenue Plaza Begins to Take Shape

We are pleased to say that the construction of Myrtle Avenue Plaza is winding down. A significant amount of seating, including benches, tables, and platform seating has been installed and is already proving popular with the local lunch crowd.

Additional seating and plaza amenities will continue to arrive as construction continues. Below is a recap what's already in place and what's still to come in the Plaza:

What's Completed

Benches installed
Planted areas formed
Tree pits created
Game tables installed
New trash and recycling bins arrived
Sidewalk pouring complete
All underground utilities in place

What's Still to Come

Public art installation
B54 bus stop at Grand & Myrtle with new bus shelter
Moveable chairs and tables with umbrellas
34 new bike racks
Pedestrian-level lighting
Trees and plantings
New emergency NYPD/FDNY call boxes

We're looking forward to having a completed Plaza that'll be home to countless lunch breaks, evening hangouts, community events, and more.

To get up to the minute updates on all things Myrtle Ave. follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Now Open: JJ Kitchen

Clinton Hill gained a new eatery today with the opening of JJ Kitchen on Myrtle Avenue. The restaurant looks to become a popular lunch spot with their menu of Chinese classic dishes. For main courses it's strictly noodles - egg, wonton, rice, or udon - all dressed up in your own personal choice. A full slate of smaller eats, including dumplings, wontons, buns, and spring rolls, are also available. View the full menu below. JJ Kitchen, 473B Myrtle Avenue, (718) 636-0468.

11 New Myrtle Ave. Merchants Opening this Spring

With each visit down Myrtle Avenue, it appears there's yet another storefront preparing for a new business to open its doors. The commercial strip in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill is currently seeing a boom of commercial activity, with 11 new shops and restaurants on the way. Below is a round-up of new businesses planning an opening in the upcoming months:

The Commissary Kitchen
Offering up classic Greek dishes in a modern setting, The Commissary Kitchen (pictured above) will be a 32-seat restaurant at the corner of Myrtle and Steuben in Clinton Hill.

Pipsqueak Children's Shoppe
This popular Bed-Stuy children's boutique is expanding from Bedford Avenue and opening a second location at 469 Myrtle Avenue. In addition to offering a full stock of children's goods - including clothes and toys - the shop will also offer children's haircuts. Pipsqueak's owners are planning on opening in May.

Depanneur
Borrowing its name from the French-Canadian word for bodega, Depanneur puts a thoughtful spin on the omnipresent corner store. Opening this spring at 519 Myrtle Avenue (the corner of Myrtle and Grand Avenues) the store will offer a curated selection coffee, pastries, prepared sandwiches, and shelves stocked with goodies from the pantry and home. Grab a preview of what's to come by visiting their original location at 242 Wythe Avenue in Williamsburg.

Image Credit: Masterson Architecture & Design

Hudson Jane
Operating as an all-day cafe, Hudson Jane will be a go-to place in Fort Greene from morning to night. Around the clock visits could include grabbing coffee and breakfast snacks in the morning, enjoying midday lunch, picking up freshly prepared dinners after work, or spending an evening at the wine bar. A late spring opening is planned for this new eatery at the corner of Myrtle Avenue and Adelphi Street.

Locals
Finding quality meats locally is about to get a whole lot easier. Locals will offer a butcher counter, focused on organically and locally raised meats, in addition to prepared foods that can be taken home for dinner. Throughout the day, customers can enjoy coffee, fresh baked pastries, and lunch at the cozy Fort Greene shop. The opening is slated for late May at 332 Myrtle Avenue, between Washington Park and Carlton Avenue.

Uguyt
This new sushi bar is planning on opening in May 2017, offering Clinton Hill a full menu of both classic and signature sushi.

MetroPCS
Opening soon at 329 Myrtle, near the corner of Washington Park, is an independently-owned and authorized MetroPCS store.

JJ Kitchen - NOW OPEN
Taking over the former Crepe House space, JJ Kitchen will open this spring with a lunch-focused menu of sandwiches, wraps, juices and teas.

Gold Coast Bank- NOW OPEN
This Long Island-based bank will make their NYC debut with their new branch at 176 Myrtle Avenue in Fort Greene. Gold Coast Bank plans on opening their doors in the next few weeks.

European Wax Center
This international chain offers a full menu of waxing for both men and women will bring their popular services to Clinton Hill this spring when they open at 531 Myrtle Avenue, between Grand Avenue and Steuben Street.

Wine Legend
This full wine store will no doubt become a popular spot in Downtown Brooklyn and Fort Greene once it opens at the corner of Myrtle Avenue and Fleet Place. The shop is also slated to feature a wine bar.

Stay up to date on when these businesses open and other local news by following Myrtle Avenue on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

Now Open: Pollitos Cafe

Clinton Hill's newest eatery offers up quick and inexpensive options for diners on the go. Pollitos Cafe opened their doors today at the corner of Myrtle Avenue and Ryerson Street, next door to their sister restaurant and long-time neighborhood favorite, Los Pollitos III. Their brief menu features traditional Mexican street food, all made in house. Morning hour offerings include coffee and breakfast tortas, while lunch and dinner menus also feature chalupas, empanadas, and gorditas. Pollitos Cafe, 419-Rear Myrtle Avenue, (718) 636-6125.

New Building Planned for 341 Myrtle Avenue

341 Myrtle Avenue, home to Worldwide Discount Store, will soon be replaced with a new six-story mixed-use building.

Plans were filed with the NYC Department of Buildings last week to erect a new six-story building on Myrtle Avenue in Fort Greene. The current three-story building at 341 Myrtle Avenue, between Carlton and Adelphi, is one of the neighborhood's last buildings with boarded-up upper floors. The new building application shows plans eight apartments on the building's upper floors, and a 2,200 square foot retail space on the ground floor. The six-story building will reach a height of 60 feet. The property has been home to the local 99 cent store, Worldwide Discount, for decades. The business owner intends to move the discount store to another location nearby.

341 Myrtle Avenue, as seen in 1999.

We've requested renderings from the development firm. To keep up to date with more developments happening on Myrtle Avenue, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Fort Greene Park Easter Egg Hunt

Children will be hunting for 2,000 eggs in Fort Greene Park on Saturday, April 15 from 11am-2pm.

The Easter Bunny will be extra busy this year, preparing for a massive egg hunt in Fort Greene Park. The free egg hunt will take place on Saturday, April 15 from 11am-2pm with a full slate of fun activities for local children. Before the egg hunt kicks off at 12:30pm, families can enjoy story time with the Brooklyn Public Library, collect balloon animals, play games, and spend time with the Easter Bunny himself. All activities will take place in the park, near the entrance of N. Portland and Myrtle Avenue. The event is presented in partnership by the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership, Councilmember Laurie A. Cumbo, the Fort Greene Park Conservancy, BAM, Bklyn Public Library, and MetroPlus. Click here to view full event details.

Myrtle Avenue Honors the Women of Our Community

This March Myrtle Avenue is celebrating Women’s History Month by honoring the women that help make our community great. Every day, these women strengthen the bonds within our community. Whether they’re collecting information for fellow community members or providing a gathering space for the community to come together. Their actions add up to something bigger. These women, and many more, are the community in Fort Greene/Clinton Hill. We are so proud to honor them during this special month.

Stay tuned to this space as we release new features each week.

Now Open: Champion’s Taekwondo

Lead Instructor Q at Champion's Taekwondo, 434 Myrtle Avenue.

Those looking to add a new workout regiment into their routine have a new and exciting option in Clinton Hill with the opening of Champion's Taekwondo. The new studio at 434 Myrtle Avenue offers a slate of classes that focus both on taekwondo and kickboxing. Taekwondo classes are offered for those as young as three years old, through the Little Tigers class, and all the way up to those 65 and older through a special weekly seniors' class. A full calendar of classes for children, youth, adults, and seniors can be found at championstkd.com. Stop in or call to hear about their opening specials and discounts. Champion's Taekwondo, 434 Myrtle Avenue, (718) 522-5425.