'We've been forgotten': Melrose neighbors left waiting as NYCHA elevator remains out of service
NYCHA says a fire last month damaged the elevator’s controller.
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For nearly a month, residents of the Adam Houses in Melrose have been trapped in a daily struggle - their building’s only elevator has been out of service after a fire damaged critical equipment.
Lillian Martinez, a single mother of two, says her children mean everything. Her son has autism and needs help getting up and down the stairs to get to class. But with a broken elevator, that’s become nearly impossible.
“Just going up the stairs he holds my hand because he’s scared to go up by himself,” said Martinez.
NYCHA says a fire last month damaged the elevator’s controller. Martinez - who has back problems - has been stuck in her 13th-floor apartment for three weeks now.
“I can’t even go outside to get things for my child," said Martinez as tears began trickling down her face. "No diapers, no wipes - it’s hard.
Martinez says she’s called for help, but NYCHA can only assist residents who are physically unable to use the stairs. Meanwhile, disabled neighbors are parked outside for hours, waiting for help.
Andrea De Jesus says she’s called many times for help operating a stair climber for her elderly mother, but they’re often left waiting.
“Especially the heart doctor’s appointment, she always has to be there. That she cannot miss,” said De Jesus.
NYCHA says it’s “in the process of fully replacing the necessary elevator equipment to restore service for residents as soon as possible,” but residents say they’re being told repairs may not come until after Thanksgiving.
“We have been forgotten,” said Martinez.
With no clear timeline on these elevator repairs, neighbors say they’re forced to take the stairs.
