by Heloise Gruneberg
6/26/03
An informal “coalition” of organizations has been formed to deal
with the very current issue of the future of the now-mothballed Brooklyn
House of Detention (Boerum Place & Atlantic Avenue). Natalie Oster and
Heloise Gruneberg represent the BHA, working with representatives from the
Atlantic Avenue Betterment Association, Atlantic Avenue Local Development
Corporation, Brooklyn Heights Association and the Cobble Hill Association.
The coalition is seeking the support of all “civics” to sign on to this
effort.
The first meeting of this group was held in early June and full
agreement was reached to go forward. Candace Damon of the AALDC wrote the
first draft of “talking points” which were distributed for comment and
update. The plan is to use these points in the letters each organization
would send (with their own viewpoint and concerns as part of their letter).
At our second meeting on June 18th, these points were further
amended, and plans were made to involve elected officials in this effort, to
share these points (when further updated) with all those from whom we are
seeking support. The updated points were received by e-mail yesterday
(6/25), and were distributed to each of the participants.
We enjoy the support of our Councilmember David Yassky, our
Assemblywoman Joan Millman, our State Senator Martin Connor, our Congressman
Ed Towns. In addition, we will expand our request for support to
neighboring elected officials. The development community has expressed support for
this effort. These avenues will be fully explored.
AABA has been dealing with the problems of the HOD for many years,
and has achieved many improvements. The consultants for the Master Plan for
Atlantic Avenue (AALDC) presented their "vision" for the Avenue last
Saturday at the "Y". The subject of the HOD was very much a focus of their
presentation about the "gap" problem, and the planning for Boerum Place.
Meetings are scheduled for this week and next with those whose
support we are seeking. We will keep the neighborhood updated as
developments occur.