Bed-Stuy couple fears for their lives as rusted scaffolding looms above home
In New York City, building owners and their hired contractors are legally responsibly for ensuring that their sidewalk sheds are kept in safe condition at all times, according to the Department of Buildings
More Stories
A Brooklyn couple says they fear for their lives every time they step out of their home due to unsafe scaffolding that’s been left standing and deteriorating for more than six years on the building next door.
John and Allie Sykes say the scaffolding structure at 669 Marcy Ave. is now falling apart. They describe rusty nails landing at their feet and wooden boards flapping in the wind.
“This is a dangerous situation. It’s an emergency situation,” said John Sykes. “It should be taken care of immediately.”
The building was recently sold to a company owned by Shimon Kleinman. While the new owner pulled a permit to renew the scaffolding, neighbors say no repairs have been made.
In New York City, building owners and their hired contractors are legally responsibly for ensuring that their sidewalk sheds are kept in safe condition at all times, according to the Department of Buildings
The contractor was recently hit with a $2,500 fine by DOB, a penalty that could rise to $10,000 if the issue isn't resolved.
On Tuesday, Mayor Eric Adams said he intends to sign a package of legislation that would increase monthly fines for long-standing sidewalk sheds and shorten the time between permit renewals.
The new law will give DOB the legal authority to issue penalties up to $6,000 to property owners every month for keeping the shed up on a public sidewalk.
But for the Sykes family, the threat is urgent.
“I’m 72 years old,” said Allie Sykes. “I just don’t want to be hurt.”
