The NYPD tactic of closing off drug-plagued streets has some Clinton Hill residents up in arms, while others are praising the crackdown.

Last summer, police shut down Grand Avenue between Gates and Putman for three months. Homeowners say people who usually drove through the neighborhood to purchase drugs were forced to take their business elsewhere. However, some residents say the program also made them feel like they were living in a police state because of the pervasive police presence.

Critics say the program is only successful on a short-term basis because shootings and drug dealers come back when barricades are lifted and patrols decrease. Councilwoman Letitia James (WF?Clinton Hill) plans to request more crackdowns.