During the summer months the Joseph P. Addabbo Bridge, which connects Howard Beach and Broad Channel, has been a dumping ground for an increased amount of trash, prompting complaints from local residents.
In an effort to remedy the situation, state Senator Joseph Addabbo Jr. has partnered with the Jewish Community Council (JCC) of Greater Coney Island to bring in a cleaning crew for the area.
Previously, the city Department of Transportation had personnel who would occasionally clean the bridge, but during the COVID-19 pandemic, that program had to be suspended, leaving the bridge and pedestrian paths full of debris.
After several calls and emails from constituents alerting him to conditions on the bridge, Addabbo and his team reached out to the JCC and were able to collaborate on bringing in the City Cleanup Corps (CCC) to address the conditions on the bridge.
“While I understand why DOT could not continue their cleaning of the bridge during COVID, and I greatly appreciated their work, the growing debris issue needed to be addressed on a regular basis,” Addabbo said. “I’m also extremely grateful for the efforts of all the volunteers from the community who did a great job cleaning the bridge and the surrounding area. But the conditions have worsened and the trash has accumulated so quickly, that currently a daily maintaining of the bridge is needed. I am thankful that the opportunity to work with the JCC and CCC arose.”
Now, Addabbo’s office has up to four people from the CCC to clean the bridge, five days a week, and it has made a notable difference, Addobbo explained.
“I am grateful for the four members of the CCC who come each day and clean up the bridge, the pedestrian path and the grass areas around it,” Addabbo said. “I want to express my thanks to the Jewish Community Council of Greater Coney Island for their partnership in this endeavor, as long as the funding lasts,” he said.
Addabbo is hopeful that with additional city or state funding, the program can continue well into 2022.
If anyone is looking for work, Addabbo’s office can help individuals get in touch with the CCC, who is currently looking for people to be a part of their cleanup program.
For more information, call Addabbo’ district office at 718-738-1111.
