Fence at New City shopping plaza draws complaints, impacts businesses
News 12 is hearing concerns after a chain-link fence was installed between two connected retail parking lots in New City.
A chain-link fence installed a few weeks ago at the Clarkstown Shopping Plaza in New City is drawing criticism from shoppers and raising concerns among local business owners.
Many customers who spoke about the new addition said they would like to see it removed.
"I think the fence is ridiculous," said Marc, of New City.
"The fence makes the neighborhood look disgusting," another shopper said.
Mike of Valley Cottage had mixed feelings about the installation.
"If we didn't have it, things may be better. I could live without it," he said before he went to Craft Taqueria. "And it's on the side away from the establishment I'm trying to go to, so I can live with it."
Other drivers were seen exiting onto South Main Street to access businesses on both sides of the plaza. Before the fence was installed, the parking lots for the two shopping centers were connected.
The changes have also affected businesses in the area.
"A public statement that we're not closing because there's a lot of concern that the building is getting knocked down," said Kenny Malm, of New City Pharmacy.
Malm said the pharmacy posted on Facebook to reassure customers that it remains open after receiving questions.
The business is also noticing a decline in foot traffic.
"Little things like people buying sodas and stuff like that is definitely...down," Malm said. "How many times the door opens every day is down, but um, we're making do."
Jeff Weinberger, of Weinland Associates, the landlord who owns the smaller retail area, said he did not install the fence.
According to Michael Zuker, a Clarkstown official, the landlord who owns the larger side of the plaza has been cited for alleged fire code violations related to the fence. One is related to the fence being too close to the building.
Zuker said those issues will need to be addressed in the near future.
News 12 reached out to the landlord who installed the fence and is awaiting a response.
