The emblematic shopping area of La Marqueta, in East Harlem, is experiencing difficult times.
This Puerto Rican space located under the tracks on Park Avenue, between 114th and 115th streets, is fighting to survive as a meeting place for Hispanics.
The works carried out by the MTA at the site to remodel the columns that support the viaduct have affected this commercial area that has almost 100 years of history.
“The history of La Marqueta begins in the 1930s. It is an iconic building that is very nostalgic for us Puerto Ricans,” explains Melissa Viverito, former councilor of the area.
Viverito points out that since 2017, some 30 million in resources were approved for its renovation, but the MTA works have stopped the project.
Meanwhile, several businesses have had to move out of the location.
The few locals that still remain are looking for a way to support themselves.
“We ask that you be aware of how this affects small businesses,” said Aileen Gazpambide, administrator of La Marqueta.
The administrator calls on Hispanics to help businesses to keep this traditional space alive.
“Support Hispanics so we can continue exposing our culture,” he said.
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Although they are tired of contacting the company that manages the building, the neighbors of a building located in the Fordham neighborhood do not stop complaining due to leaks, pests and insecurities that live in their apartments.
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The heating service does not work in the building, so they must endure the cold. Additionally, a Hispanic mother noted that her daughter has encountered mice when she plays in the hallway.
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At the main entrance of the building, the welcome is offered by a puddle of urine. It is part of the calamities that the neighbors experience, when any person living on the streets tries to relieve themselves there.
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The leaks are evident, damaging the walls, ceilings and running the risk of the structure collapsing. This is what the bathroom of a neighbor named Rafael looks like.
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And as a result of the leaks, mold appears, which not only stains the walls, but also represents a danger to respiratory health. The neighbors say they have reported every detail, but they receive no answers.
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The walls have holes and defects, which provide avenues for mice and cockroaches, two pests that neighbors have to deal with daily. One of them stated that she cleans every day, but it is not enough.
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And if that were not enough, the neighbors have photographed a homeless man sleeping in the lobby of the building, next to the stairs, exposing his private parts.
2023-11-06 14:06:00
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