See What You Can Vote On In This Year’s District 39 Participatory Budgeting Ballot
Voting for the fourth year of participatory budgeting in District 39 is fast approaching, and Councilmember Brad Lander just shared the projects that you’ll be able to choose between to receive a combined $1.5 million in funding.
Here’s the complete list of projects that are on the ballot:
Art in the 4th Avenue F/G Subway Station ($325,000)To accompany its recent renovation, this station will receive a new art installation (specific location TBD) to serve as a major landmark and a symbol of our neighborhoods’ investments in the arts.
Park Slope Library Storytelling Garden ($250,000)
Convert the branch’s south lawn into an edible garden with raised beds and benches. In the sheltered hollow behind the building, construct a child-friendly micro-amphitheater for outdoor storytelling
Technology for Local Arts Non-Profits ($90,000)
New computers, projectors, and storage servers for three well-established, Gowanus-based non-profits – Groundswell, Reelworks, and Rooftop Films—to benefit the arts education of underserved youth.
A/C for PS 124 Cafeteria ($200,000)
The below-ground cafeteria is plagued by heat from an open kitchen and poor circulation. The space is unbearably hot spring through fall. The school, located at 515 4th Avenue, hosts summer programs and the space is used year round.
PS 146/MS 448 Innovative Gym Renovation ($225,000)
BNS/BCS, located at 610 Henry Street in Carroll Gardens, serves 1,400 children. 50% qualify for free lunch. 30% have disabilities. Overcrowding is an issue. Renovation of a room (currently not useable) allows for physical fitness, yoga, dance, etc.
PS 179 Auditorium Renovation ($230,000)
A title 1 school with 1,000 students located at 202 Avenue C in Kensington, where 45% are English Language Learners. The renovation would make a decrepit auditorium functional with a wireless sound system, new curtains and a refurbished stage.
Make Union Street & 9th Street Greener ($150,000)
A green corridor taking shape along Union St will be extended between Bond and 4th Ave. Bioswales will capture stormwater and create habitat. Pending geotechnical study, 9th St will also be greened this way.
Windsor Terrace Stormwater Greenstreet ($80,000)
Inclusion of a greenstreet enhancement to a pedestrian refuge at Prospect Park Southwest and 16th Street to capture stormwater, calm traffic, provide stewardship partnership opportunities (like with nearby PS 154), and beautify the area.
Kids Play Area at St. Mary’s Playground ($250,000)
Funding to help add a kids play area to a planned park renovation. Soft, resilient surface will allow for safe play or small sports and absorb rainwater. Park is under the elevated tracks along Smith in Gowanus.
New Drainage along Path in Prospect Park ($200,000)
Fix flooding along path near Dongan Oak Monument by excavating the area, reconstructing catch basins, and installing new drainage. This is a popular area for runners and pedestrians along East Drive.
Water Service for Thomas Cuite Park ($350,000)
Restore water service to the water fountain in Thomas Cuite Park by excavating the street and replacing broken pipes. This local park has a playground and grassy area, located on 11th Avenue at 19th Street in Windsor Terrace.
Four Safer Intersections on Hicks Street ($300,000)
Augment an existing project to make painted curb extensions permanent with concrete, at four high-crash intersections: Kane, Sackett, Union, and Summit Streets in Cobble Hill and Carroll Gardens. Improve pedestrian and traffic safety.
More Turnstiles at 7th Ave. F/G Station ($200,000)
Install approximately six low turnstiles at both the 7th Avenue entrance and the 8th Avenue entrance; move unused token booth from center of station to 7th Ave entrance. End the lines!
Get all the details at the PB Expo and Vote Kickoff, which will be held on Tuesday, April 14 from 6:30-8:30pm at Camp Friendship, 339 8th Street. Learn about all the projects in person, cast your ballot, plus enjoy food and music!
Voting will be held on Thursday, April 16, Saturday, April 18, and Sunday, April 19 in locations throughout the district (including at the Armory, 361 15th Street, on Sunday from 10am-6pm). Voting will also be held Tuesday, April 14 through Thursday, April 16 at Brad Lander’s office, 456 5th Avenue, 3rd Floor.
All people age 16 and over who can verify that they live in District 39 are eligible to vote.
Planning on voting? Make sure you submit your pledge to vote, and then get out and help choose some worthy neighborhood projects!