Myrtle Avenue in Bushwick is rife with crime, violence and graffiti, according to residents and local officials, which is why the city has launched a program to improve the quality of life.

Councilman Antonio Reynoso has spearheaded the initiative, and Thursday announced a partnership between community members and the city to beautify the intersection where Broadway, Myrtle Avenue and Jefferson Street come together.

Residents say they hope the changes will show visitors that Bushwick has more to offer than drugs and crime.

The city has repainted the crosswalks and installed new garbage cans and street lights, Reynoso says. 

A nonprofit organization is also removing graffiti, and the police have cracked down on the sale of synthetic marijuana in the neighborhood.