Residents Say Car Break-Ins Plague Cropsey Avenue

A concerned neighbor alerted Community Board 11 to a string of car break-ins and vandalism along Cropsey Avenue during the group’s October 7 meeting.

A man who introduced himself as Theodore said the incidents have stretched along the commercial corridor from Bay 16th Street to Bay 20th Street, requesting that the Board urge the 62nd Precinct to ramp up patrols in that area.

Reps from the precinct were in attendance and noted the break-ins, and also responded to other concerns. One included a woman’s frustration that soccer practices at the New Utrecht High School fields were causing parking problems and unfair enforcement.  The woman stated that parking is impossible in the most evenings between 7pm and 9pm. The resident said she received a ticket from a police officer for parking “right across” from her home when there were a handful of cars illegally and double parked  on the same street.

Also at the meeting, a representative from Councilman David Greenfield’s office reminded residents that the speed limit has been lowered in most areas from 30 to 25 miles per hour in order to reduce traffic fatalities. Some drivers, unaware of the change, have been getting caught in speed traps on Ocean Parkway because no official announcement has been made yet, the rep said.

Board members were excited to discuss upcoming plans once they began their portion of announcements. It was noted that Community Board 11 has been selected for a Planning Fellowship Program that will focus on Urban Planning. Steven Maples, a second year master’s student at Hunter College, will be aiding the community board in planning regarding illegal curb cuts and front yard parking pads.

Also, regarding budget consultations; the board mentioned some changes they would like to see from the Parks Department—trees being installed in front of curb cuts. There was a motion for a resolution to be submitted.

The board also took notice of complaints surrounding trash at the Waldbaum’s parking lot. Since the establishment is private property, the Department of Sanitation cannot be held responsible. Therefore, the board hopes to ensure close monitoring of the establishment to promote up-keep of the lot.

— Anna Spivak