Con Ed Work & Film Shoot Clog Commercial Streets During Holidays

How are we supposed to do our holiday shopping when all the streets are blocked off?

At last night’s Community Board 11 meeting, the hot topic was city permits being given out in commercial areas for Con Edison construction and an upcoming film shoot, causing unbearable traffic and affecting local businesses during the biggest shopping month of the year.

“I don’t understand how these permits are given out in commercial areas, where there are embargos,” said Marnee Elias-Pavia. “And especially during the holiday season. I think business is tough enough, they don’t need to make it worse for a penny.”

A film called “New York, New York” will be shooting in front of Golden Crown Bakery (2214 86th Street) tomorrow, December 13, despite a Department of Transportation (DOT) embargo on construction on 86th Street between Thanksgiving and New Years. In addition, ongoing Con Edison work on Bay 8th Street is shutting down far more blocks than anticipated.

Pavia said that the city has not been receptive to her objection, but the production company was understanding and said they would try to be considerate of businesses and shoppers.

Before you get excited that someone decided to remake the Martin Scorsese classic, “New York, New York” is a low-budget, independent production with no connection to the 1977 film. The shoot will take place inside and outside the bakery, and parking will be suspended on both sides of the street.