Kingsbridge neighbors frustrated by lack of redevelopment after devastating fire
The five-alarm fire broke out in December 2023, tearing through a row of local shops, including a deli, a seafood market and a cleaners.
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More than a year after a fire destroyed several businesses on West 231st Street in Kingsbridge, the site remains an empty lot, leaving neighbors frustrated.
The five-alarm fire broke out in December 2023, tearing through a row of local shops, including a deli, a seafood market and a cleaners. While the ashes and debris were cleared long ago, no progress has been made to rebuild or replace the businesses, which many residents relied on daily.
“It’s hard to see it like this,” said Cheryl Samperi, who has lived in the neighborhood for 40 years. “It takes away from the neighborhood. I wish they would do something.”
Other neighbors expressed a similar sense of loss, describing how the businesses were central to their community.
“We were accustomed to going to the deli, to the other stores — everybody that used to be here knew each other,” said Debbie, a longtime resident.
Many have ideas for what they’d like to see in the vacant lot.
“Probably a food store or something that would benefit the community with cheaper prices,” suggested JoAnn, another neighbor.
According to public records, Galaxy Contracting now owns the property. However, the company has yet to announce any plans for redevelopment.
Residents are remaining hopeful that something will eventually be done to bring life back to this once-bustling block.
