In My Backyard A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
February 2008 Sustainable South Bronx (SSB) is a Hunts Point‐based organization committed to envi‐ ronmental justice through innovative, economically sustainable projects that are in‐ formed by community needs. Founded in 2001, SSB addresses land use, energy, trans‐ portation, water and waste policy, and education in order to advance the environ‐ mental and economic rebirth of the South Bronx. Majora Carter Marta Rodriquez James Chase Jon Santiago Rob Craudereuff Phil Silva Miquela Craytor Jenny Ulloa Amilcar LaBoy James Wells Duaine Lee Annette Williams Maria Ramos
Warnke Community Consulting (WCC) is a community development consulting firm that partners with nonprofit organizations to design and implement community‐based planning processes, develop and finance affordable housing and community facilities, and build sustainable organizational capacity. Heidie Joo Burwell Kyra Davis Francis Lam Jonathan Leit Benjamin Warnke February 2008
Dear Community Member,
During the summer of 2007, Sustainable South Bronx asked local residents to take an active role in shaping the future of the Hunts Point community.
Elected officials and government agencies make many decisions that impact thousands of lives, our lives. Sewage treatment plant expansions, power plants, large truck‐dependent development, and most recently a 2000 in‐ mate jail proposal, are all examples of decisions made without our best inter‐ ests in mind. These decisions have resulted in low numbers of local jobs, bad smells, unattractive land uses that discourage community pride and re‐ investment, and high rates of asthma & other health problems.
In light of the city’s decision to spend $375 million for a jail in Hunts Point, SSB decided to make sure that community concerns and visions were com‐ municated to the City. SSB worked with Warnke Community Consulting to collect your voices. This report is the result: over 450 residents, workers, and community stakeholders shared their visions for the future of our com‐ munity.
We hope you will examine the results, and discuss your own desires for this community with friends, family, and elected officials. Do you agree or dis‐ agree with the results of this survey? We want to know. Thank you for your time and interest in this important moment.
Sincerely,
Majora Carter Miquela Craytor Executive Director Deputy Director
4 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood T ABLE OF CONTENTS
1 Executive Summary 7
2 Methodology 15
3 Neighborhood Profile 17 3.1 General Demographics 17 3.2 Workforce & Economy 19 3.3 Housing 31 3.4 Recreational Areas 35 3.5 Community Health 41 3.6 Public Safety 45 3.7 Community Identity & Participation 53
4 Community Vision & Recommendations 61 4.1 Workforce Development 61 4.2 Housing 69 4.3 Recreational Areas 73 4.4 Community Health 79 4.5 Public Safety 83 4.6 Community Identity & Participation 87
5 Conclusion 93
Acknowledgments 95
5
6 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Hunts Point neighborhood in the South Bronx, one of processed at the various waste treatment plants in Hunts New York City’s last remaining industrial areas, is a commu‐ Point.1 nity of contrasting realities that finds itself at a key point in its development. On the one hand, the neighborhood has nu‐ The Sustainable South Bronx (SSB) initiated this community‐ merous assets, including a waterfront location on the Bronx based visioning process to empower residents to participate and East Rivers, proximity to Manhattan, the economic en‐ in influencing the future of their neighborhood. SSB is a gine of the Hunts Point Food Distribution Center, new City‐led Hunts Point‐based organization committed to environmental development projects and waterfront parks, and a strong lo‐ justice through innovative, economically sustainable projects cal organizational infrastructure. Simultaneously, it exhibits that are informed by community needs. Founded in 2001, one of the highest poverty and unemployment levels in the SSB addresses land use, energy, transportation, water and City, with poor community health, noxious uses and commer‐ waste policy, and education in order to advance the environ‐ cial traffic, and substance abuse and prostitution issues. mental and economic rebirth of the South Bronx. The project Caught in the middle of these pressures are approximately was implemented over a six‐month period from April to Sep‐ 11,000 residents, who have been neglected, under‐served by tember 2007, and culminates with this report, “In My Back‐ the neighborhood’s strong local economy, and historically dis‐ yard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Re‐ empowered by development projects that often burden the alizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighbor‐ area with the City’s undesirable uses while failing to benefit hood.” The objectives of the project have been twofold: the local population. • Empower community members through a process that Hunts Point, the total area of which covers one square mile, is provides an opportunity to directly voice their needs and bound by the Bruckner Expressway to the north and west, aspirations, as well as influence the future development and the Bronx and East Rivers to the south and east. It is lo‐ of their neighborhood cated in Bronx Community Board 2. As with the entire bor‐ ough of the Bronx, the 1970s and 1980s witnessed severe de‐ • Inform and guide SSB’s work, as well as projects under‐ terioration in property and living conditions, and only in the taken by other entities in the neighborhood late 1990s and 2000s has the neighborhood begun to receive the attention that it requires to revitalize. Still, major chal‐ lenges remain, not the least of which is its role in New York City as a literal dumping ground: nearly two‐thirds of the City’s sludge and 40% of Manhattan’s commercial waste is
Executive Summary 7
Thematically, the project has focused on six major areas of tions, as well as U.S. Census, Department of Labor, and community development: other government demographic and economic data • Community Survey: 425 residents and workers surveyed • Workforce & Economy over seven weeks, with an instrument of 50 questions • Housing covering quality of life, housing, workforce, and general • Recreational Areas community issues • Community Health • Focus Groups: three focus groups over a two‐month pe‐ • Public Safety riod, with participants numbering from four to 14, cover‐ • Community Identity & Participation ing housing, quality of life, and workforce issues • Stakeholder Interviews: interviews with 26 organizations To implement the project, SSB collaborated with Warnke and individuals, conducted in‐person and via telephone, Community Consulting (WCC), a community development ranging from Community Board members, to educators, consulting firm that partners with nonprofit organizations to to organizational staff design and implement community‐based planning processes, develop and finance affordable housing and community facili‐ ties, and build sustainable organizational capacity. This report has been prepared by WCC, in cooperation with SSB.
Methodology SSB and WCC collaborated to develop a methodology that would maximize participation in the process by residents and other community members. While the focus of the project has been the Hunts Point peninsula, it has also covered por‐ tions of the Port Morris and Longwood sections of the South Bronx, which are included in SSB’s service area.
The project utilized four information gathering components:
• Existing Reports & Data: review of the myriad reports produced by New York City agencies and local organiza‐ View of East River from Hunts Point peninsula.
8 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
Neighborhood Profile • Apprenticeship programs may not be meeting the diver‐ In many ways, Hunts Point is an unusual poor community. sity of residents’ interests and needs While its residential population ranks among the most impov‐ • Informal economic activity represents a potential area of erished in New York City, the neighborhood is home to an in‐ economic growth credibly lucrative local economy with the Hunts Point Food Distribution Center. Clearly, the billions of dollars of eco‐ Housing nomic activity in the neighborhood fails to benefit residents. • Hunts Point and Bronx CD 2 are growing as residential This tension manifests in several areas of community develop‐ communities ment, and the visioning project sought to balance these dual • The housing typology of Hunts Point and Bronx CD 2 is realities. The following summary presents the profile of overwhelmingly dominated by mid‐rise, multi‐family Hunts Point that emerged from the project: rental buildings • The quality of the housing stock is a significant issue General Demographics • The community has an extremely low homeownership • The populations of Hunts Point and the greater SSB ser‐ rate vice area are growing • Rents are among the lowest in the City, but are still diffi‐ • These communities are markedly young cult to afford • These communities are largely Hispanic • Rental vacancy rates are extremely low • Community members overwhelmingly want residential Workforce & Economy growth, but are dissatisfied with available housing options • The local workforce is impoverished and under‐employed • Community members overwhelmingly feel that the resi‐ • The local workforce lacks critical employment skills dential core is well‐supplied with basic services and neces‐ • Hunts Point has a major local economy sities • Employment opportunities are available in Hunts Point • Community members would like to see residential hous‐ • It is unclear whether large employers in Hunts Point hire ing developed in several areas local workers • Significant barriers to employment exist that make it diffi‐ Recreational Areas cult for the local workforce to be successful • Hunts Point has few parks and recreational spaces • A range of employment services are available to the work‐ • Parks and recreational spaces are increasing in Hunts force through City agencies and local organizations Point • Residents are not well connected to employment service • Despite the development of new parks, safe access re‐ agencies mains a significant issue
Executive Summary 9
• Barretto Point Park is far and remote • Public safety in Hunts Point is improving • Community members are not fully informed about new • The 41st Precinct is active in community outreach efforts parks • Safety, cleanliness, access and additional parks are impor‐ tant to community members
Community Health • Community members are greatly concerned about health conditions • HIV / AIDS rates are extremely high and growing much faster than in the City as a whole • Asthma incidence is decreasing among children, but con‐ tinues to be a great concern for both children and adults • Hunts Point has the highest prevalence of diabetes in New York City • Hunts Point has a high rate of obesity • Substance abuse indicators are rising Participants in focus group. • Many uninsured are eligible for public health insurance • Community members rate their own health as poor Community Identity & Participation • Hunts Point lacks a strong positive identity, but a strong Public Safety sense of community is fostered by connections among • Community members’ perceptions of safety are ambiva‐ family and friends lent • Community members believe in Hunts Point’s future and • Community members are ambivalent towards police pres‐ want to participate in shaping the neighborhood’s devel‐ ence opment • Community members cite drug dealing and prostitution as • Community members believe they have the power to ef‐ major problems fect change in Hunts Point • Prostitution in Hunts Point is both a major public safety • Community members’ favorite characteristics about Hunts and community health concern Point are access to transportation and proximity to family • Crime in Hunts Point has declined, but at a slower rate and friends, while their greatest concerns focus on quality than in the City as a whole of life and employment issues
10 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
• Community members believe that major upcoming devel‐ Community Vision & Recommendations opment projects in Hunts Point will offer mixed results for Although previous planning efforts have offered a range of the local population development opportunities for the neighborhood, this project is distinguished by its bottom‐up approach and reliance on community members themselves for the articulation of local Hunts Point Community Vision needs. Participation by residents and local leaders has re‐ • Workforce: The local workforce in Hunts Point is well‐ sulted in a community‐based vision for Hunts Point, which in connected to an effective service delivery system that turn suggests a series of planning recommendations towards focuses on its comprehensive, long‐term needs and realizing these goals: strives towards stable, living wage jobs. Workforce Development Vision: The local workforce in Hunts • Housing: Hunts Point residents enjoy a broad range of Point is well‐connected to an effective service delivery sys‐ affordable, quality housing opportunities, including tem that focuses on its comprehensive, long‐term needs and both rental and homeownership. strives towards stable, living wage jobs. • Emphasize a resident‐focused, case management ap‐ • Recreational Areas: Hunts Point is a community with proach through a dedicated service provider safe, clean, and accessible parks and recreational • Institutionalize a workforce outreach and referral network spaces that are enjoyed by all community members. through a coordinated approach that better connects resi‐ dents to service agencies • Community Health: Hunts Point community members • Focus placement efforts involving major local businesses enjoy a neighborhood no longer plagued by a myriad of on long‐term opportunities public health concerns, with reduced commercial pollu‐ • Connect residents to apprenticeship and licensing pro‐ tion, fewer noxious uses, and access to healthy food. grams • Support small and informal business development to en‐ • Public Safety: Hunts Point is a neighborhood in which courage self‐employment and supplementary income all community members feel safe. sources
• Community Identity & Participation: Hunts Point has a positive identity and hopeful future that is influenced by active resident participation in planning processes.
Executive Summary 11
Housing Vision: Hunts Point residents enjoy a broad range of affordable, quality housing opportunities, including both rental and homeownership. • Complete a comprehensive land use and building condi‐ tion survey of the neighborhood • Remediate existing brownfields in order to create sites safe for affordable housing development • Expand affordable homeownership opportunities • Increase building inspections and code enforcement to ensure that building owners are code compliant, and in‐ crease funding for tenant organizers • Develop permanent financing mechanisms for affordable housing • Develop supportive housing for individuals with special needs who are re‐entering the workforce Hunts Point Riverside Park. Recreational Areas Vision: Hunts Point is a community with safe, clean, and accessible parks and recreational spaces Community Health Vision: Hunts Point community members that are enjoyed by all community members. enjoy a neighborhood no longer plagued by a myriad of pub‐ • Build awareness and encourage use of Barretto Point and lic health concerns, with reduced commercial pollution, Hunts Point Riverside Parks fewer noxious uses, and access to healthy food. • Improve public transportation to Barretto Point Park • Work with the Department of Transportation, community • Create a neighborhood parks clean‐up program leaders, business owners, and trucking companies to es‐ • Create additional playgrounds in the residential corridor tablish fixed commercial routes at the perimeter of the Hunts Point peninsula • Develop school‐based and after‐school educational pro‐ grams on diabetes, nutrition, asthma, substance abuse, and obesity • Design outreach and educational programs on asthma, substance abuse, and adult‐onset diabetes for places of worship, beauty parlors, and other gathering places
12 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
• Develop plan to strengthen local provision of primary and Endnotes specialized care in the diseases endemic to the neighbor‐ 1 197‐a Draft Plan for Community Board 2. hood, and work to expand services and outreach for exist‐ ing providers • Explore the creation of a capital resource to address healthcare issues funded by the industries and companies that directly contribute to the crises • Explore opening the Hunts Point Food Distribution Center to retail customers so that the local population can bene‐ fit from the healthy produce
Public Safety Vision: Hunts Point is a neighborhood in which all community members feel safe. • Create a Neighborhood Watch Program • Increase police presence and encourage greater dialogue between community members and police • Frame the issues of prostitution and the plight of sex workers in Hunts Point as both community health and public safety concerns
Community Identity & Participation Vision: Hunts Point has a positive identity and hopeful future that is influenced by ac‐ tive resident participation in planning processes. • Initiate place‐making campaign • Continue to advocate for an inclusive process on the Oak Point site development in which residents’ ideas and con‐ cerns are heard and carry influence • Implement regular mechanisms for community participa‐ tion and feedback
Executive Summary 13
Trucks at the Hunts Point Food Distribution Center.
Small businesses in Hunts Point. 14 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood 2 METHODOLOGY In spring 2007, the Sustainable South Bronx (SSB) partnered Census are often not available at the census tract level. with the community development consulting firm, Warnke Thus, this report utilizes slightly different geographies at dif‐ Community Consulting (WCC), to design and implement a ferent points to define Hunts Point and its adjacent areas. For community visioning process with the Hunts Point commu‐ example, data are presented by zip code (10474 is the zip nity. The objectives of the project have been to: code for the Hunts Point peninsula proper, the area to the southeast of the Bruckner Expressway), Bronx Community • Empower community members through a process that District 2 (Hunts Point / Longwood), and Census tracts. Some provides an opportunity to directly voice their needs and data is also presented for the Hunts Point and Mott Haven aspirations, as well as influence the future development combined area. In all cases, the report notes the relevant ge‐ of their neighborhood ography that corresponds with cited figures.
• Inform and guide SSB’s work as well as projects under‐ WCC and SSB collaborated to gather primary data through taken by other entities in the neighborhood four means: 1) a review of existing literature; 2) the commu‐ nity survey; 3) focus groups; and 4) stakeholder interviews. Given these objectives, WCC worked with SSB to identify ar‐ The focus of the project has been to compile primary and sec‐ eas of community development in Hunts Point requiring the ondary data in order to generate a community‐based greatest attention and on which the project would focus: 1) neighborhood profile, and this report presents that informa‐ workforce and economy; 2) housing; 3) recreational areas; 4) tion as well as general recommendations towards realizing community health; 5) public safety; and 6) community iden‐ the vision articulated by Hunts Point community members. tity and participation. These areas include issues about which community members have expressed interest and have not The literature review completed by WCC included New York been adequately addressed in recent community or City re‐ City neighborhood and planning reports, local community ports. The project’s implementation spanned from April to documents, reports by research institutes, and newspaper September 2007. articles over the past several years. WCC staff also compiled data from the 2000 U.S. Census, 2005 American Community The geographic focus of the project has been the Hunts Point Survey, 2002 Economic Census, and the U.S. Department of peninsula. However, as SSB’s constituent base covers a Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics. broader area, including portions of the Longwood and Port Morris neighborhoods across the Bruckner Expressway, cer‐ WCC designed the community survey instrument with input tain data have been collected from this larger geography.1 In from the focus groups and SSB. The survey, comprised of 50 addition, data sets that are more current than the 2000 U.S. questions, included sections on general demographics, public
Methodology 15
safety, recreational areas, community health, housing, em‐ WCC interviewed 26 organizations and individuals who are ployment, and community development. Survey respondents community leaders in Hunts Point and adjoining areas. WCC were limited to those over 15 years old and with a connection staff conducted the interviews, which lasted from 20 minutes to Hunts Point—persons who live and / or work in Hunts to one hour, both in‐person and on the telephone. Interview‐ Point, as well as those with friends or family members who ees included individuals involved in areas such as the arts, live or work in the neighborhood. SSB oversaw the survey education, faith groups, parks and recreation, workforce de‐ administration, which was conducted by a group of local high velopment, housing, youth development, law enforcement, school interns and AmeriCorps volunteers. Surveyors col‐ and community health. In order to create as inclusive a proc‐ lected a total of 425 usable surveys, out of 447 total adminis‐ ess as possible, WCC contacted a range of community organi‐ tered, from July 9 through August 8, 2007. Volunteers sur‐ zations, schools, businesses, and other local institutions, not veyed between the hours of 10 am and 5 pm, Monday all of which responded to interview requests. through Friday, as well as on a few Saturdays, and covered areas throughout the Hunts Point peninsula and Longwood sections. Respondents were not compensated for their par‐ Endnotes ticipation.2 1 This area corresponds with the following Census tracts: 31, 35, 37, 73, 79, 83, 85, 87, 89, 91, 97, 99, 105, 115, 119, 121, WCC facilitated a series of three focus groups from May to 127, 129. July 2007. The first session concentrated on quality of life is‐ sues in Hunts Point, including public safety, parks and recrea‐ 2 The survey was not implemented as a social scientific ran‐ tional spaces, health and environmental concerns, as well as dom sample. Surveyors targeted locations with heavy foot convenience and accessibility to local goods and services. The traffic, including subway stations, major intersections, open second session covered housing, the impact of major develop‐ spaces, public meetings, and other areas. Results have been ment projects in the neighborhood, and the community’s reported as accurate to the survey population, not the greater sense of identity and participation in effecting local change. population. Lastly, the third session discussed workforce development, including participants’ experiences with job training and placement services, obstacles to employment, skill building areas, and dream jobs. All participants were Hunts Point community members, and were recruited by SSB. The num‐ ber of participants ranged from four to 14. They did not re‐ ceive compensation for their participation.
16 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood 3 NEIGHBORHOOD PROFILE Hunts Point is a neighborhood that has largely been defined by the negative consequences of projects and economic reali‐ Hunts Point and Surrounding Areas ties beyond the control of the local community. Although there are some recent exceptions, historically residents have been excluded from influencing the future of their neighbor‐ hood because of top‐down planning processes. This chapter presents a profile of Hunts Point from the perspective of, and directly informed by, community members themselves.
3.1 General Demographics
The populations of Hunts Point and the greater SSB service area are growing The population of Hunts Point is 11,365. In the greater SSB service area, which also includes the neighborhood of Long‐ wood and portions of Mott Haven, the population expands to 62,858.1 In Bronx Community District 2 (Hunts Point and Longwood), an area that comprises the vast majority of the study area, the population increased 19% from 1990 to 2000, twice the rate of City‐wide population growth at 9%.2 As the map illustrates, the residential core of Hunts Point in particu‐ lar gained a significant number of households over this time.
These communities are markedly young While the City‐wide median age is 34 years old, the median age of the SSB service area is 27, and in Hunts Point, this age drops further to 25 years old.3 Additionally, the communities covered in this project have a high concentration of children and a significantly smaller percentage of seniors. City‐wide, residents 15 years old and younger comprise 20% of the
Neighborhood Profile 17
population, and those over 65 equal 12%. In Hunts Point, however, nearly a third (31%) of residents are under 15, and just 5.5% are over 65.4
Such a concentration of children in a community suggests that working‐age adults have a greater than average number of dependents for whom to care. Further, this concentration indicates a significant need for childcare, educational, and child recreational programs and resources.
These communities are largely Hispanic 76% of the SSB service area population is Hispanic, a dramati‐ cally higher percentage than the City‐wide rate of 28%.5 Afri‐ can Americans comprise 30.5% of the population, and non‐ Hispanic Whites only 1%.
Correspondingly, 98% of these residents speak Spanish at home, which clearly suggests a need for local services to be appropriate for non‐English speaking populations. Further, 38% of the population of Bronx CD 2 is not proficient in Eng‐ lish.
18 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
3.2 Workforce & Economy Meanwhile, unemployment in the Bronx as a whole was 7.8% in August 2007, while New York City’s rate stood at 5.7%. The local workforce is impoverished and under‐employed The local workforce in Hunts Point is typical of a low‐income The local workforce lacks critical employment skills neighborhood. While the median household income has Both quantitative and qualitative information indicates that, trended upwards for the Bronx and New York City as a whole in general, the Hunts Point workforce lacks basic skills re‐ from 2000 to 2005, that of Hunts Point has decreased over quired by employers. More than half of the population has the same period and now stands at nearly one‐third of the not completed a high school or equivalent education. In fact, City’s level. Meanwhile, the poverty rate in Hunts Point in the Hunts Point / Mott Haven neighborhood ranked last in 2005 was 47%,6 compared to the Bronx at 29% and New York both reading and mathematics scores of all neighborhoods in 11 City at 19%.7 In fact, the Hunts Point / Mott Haven neighbor‐ New York City. These statistics are troubling: on average, hoods had the lowest median household income and highest those with a college degree earn 70% more than those with poverty rate of any area in the City in 2005.8 just a high school degree, which translates to nearly $1 million of earnings over a lifetime.12 Employment indicators for Hunts Point reveal a similar situa‐ Less than High Some Associate, tion. Only approximately 44% of the Hunts Point population High School or College Bachelor’s or is in the labor force, as compared to 51% of Bronx residents School Equiva‐ Higher Degree and 58% of New York City residents.10 Although both the lence Bronx and City unemployment rates have trended upwards Hunts Point Residents’ 52% 24% 16% 8% since 2000, largely due to macroeconomic factors, neither Educational Attainment come close to the levels experienced in Hunts Point. A local Source: 2000 U.S. Census. publication, the Hunts Point Express, set the unemployment rate at 28% in fall 2007, which represents a marked increase from earlier measures. Hunts Point workers also typically lack basic job‐related soft skills. These include maintaining a professional appearance, 9 Hunts Point Bronx New York City work ethic, and oral and written communication. In addition, 2000 Median HH Income $16,339 $27,611 $38,293 they may lack administrative skills such as answering tele‐ 2005 Median HH Income $15,544 $29,228 $43,434 phones, typing, word processing, and general familiarity with computers and mainstream software. Several interviewees % Change ‐ 5% + 6% + 13% and focus group participants specifically emphasized the need Sources: 2000 U.S. Census; 2005 American Community Survey; State of New York City’s for additional programming in job preparedness— Housing & Neighborhoods 2006, The Furman Center for Real Estate & Urban Policy. Neighborhood Profile 19
professional attire, interviewing, speaking, technology, and administrative skills—that are prerequisites for placement agencies.
Survey Respondents' Employment Skills In addition, Hunts Point work‐ ers typically do not possess technical skills and licenses Childcare 130 required for many jobs. Truck Education 96 drivers, machine operators, Healthcare 73 and other manufacturing jobs Construction 69 necessitate professional certi‐ Restaurant / Food Services 69 fication. Focus group partici‐ Retail 60 pants also noted the need for skill‐building opportunities in Home Repair 56 technical areas such as ac‐ Mechanical Maintenance / Repair 49 counting, stenography, and Landscaping 41 nursing. Interestingly, survey Accounting 37 respondents stated that they Technology 35 have a range of skills in several Truck Driving 34 areas, several of which require Law Enforcement 26 some targeted training. It is also important to note that of Government 25 the skill areas highlighted by Manufacturing 24 respondents, most coincide Faith-based 23 with potential job opportuni‐ Legal 22 ties in the community. How‐ Taxi Driving 21 ever, certain job types that are Other 35 highly available in the neighborhood, such as truck 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 driving, did not receive a strong response. Responses based on “check all that apply” from 425 surveys.
20 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
Hunts Point has a major local economy specific to Hunts Point were not available, however, and ac‐ In contrast to its impoverished population, Hunts Point is the cording to interviewees, the extent to which the EZ has bene‐ rare low‐income neighborhood that includes a major local fitted Hunts Point residents is unclear. economy. The Hunts Point Food Distribution Center is an un‐ paralleled economic asset for New York City, and indeed for the entire northeastern U.S. This facility includes the Hunts Point Terminal Produce Market, Hunts Point Cooperative Market, Fulton Fish Market, and Food Service, covering 329 acres (nearly half of Hunts Point’s 690 total acres). In particu‐ lar, the newly relocated Fulton Fish Market is a 450,000 square foot facility that includes approximately 55 businesses. Unfortunately for Hunts Point residents, this economic en‐ gine does not benefit the residents of the community in which it exists.
A major impetus for economic development in Hunts Point comes from its various designations. First, it is a New York City Industrial Business Zone (IBZ), which brings benefits to local businesses, including free regulatory compliance, finan‐ cial, and other support services through Industrial Business Solutions Providers, as well as planning studies conducted in the IBZ that provide key business development data and rec‐ ommendations. In addition, Hunts Point is designated as an Empire Zone by New York State, and is part of the federal Em‐ powerment Zone (EZ), administered by the Bronx Overall Eco‐ The Hunts Point Food Distribution Center is a major economic engine for New York City, and indeed the entire northeastern U.S., yet does not benefit the local nomic Development Corporation (BOEDC). These designa‐ population. Photo courtesy NYCEDC. tions bring employee tax credits, low interest loans, and other financial benefits. In particular, the Empowerment Zone has a Loan Fund that stipulates for every $65,000 borrowed, the recipient must commit to creating at least one job for an EZ resident; thus far 74 such jobs have been created. Figures
Neighborhood Profile 21
Employment opportunities are available in Hunts Point mercial Driver’s License (CDL), which can be difficult and Hunts Point offers a range of employment opportunities costly to attain.15 In addition, new large employers to Hunts through large and small businesses. As of 2005, 618 estab‐ Point include Baldor Specialty Foods, which has long planned lishments were located in the neighborhood, totaling 11,228 a move to a new facility on Food Center Drive that is expected employees. Of this number, 43% of the establishments have to result in 500 new jobs over several years.16 Meanwhile, 1‐4 employees, and 7% have 50 or more employees. These Anheuser Busch is building a 167,000 square foot warehouse jobs generate a total annual payroll of $500 million for em‐ and distribution facility in the Food Distribution Center that ployees.13 This data, coupled with the chart on the opposite promises to add 400 permanent jobs, although it is unclear page, indicate that the predominance of the wholesale trades whether these positions are relocations or new hires. The in the area comes from both a few large employers as well as area did take a major employment hit in 1996, however, numerous small businesses, and thus both can be targeted for when the cookware business, Faberware, closed and took employment opportunities. There are also a substantial num‐ with it 700 blue collar and 200 white collar jobs.17 ber of retail businesses, but these are largely small‐scale op‐ erations and thus do not offer significant employment oppor‐ In looking towards the future, the Bronx Workforce1 Career tunities. Center has identified the following employment industries as strategic areas of growth: 1) construction, with opportunities As discussed above, the major economic engine in the through large projects such as Yankee Stadium, the Water Fil‐ neighborhood is the Hunts Point Food Distribution Center, tration project, and the Bronx Terminal Market; 2) food which includes more than 115 wholesale businesses generat‐ manufacturing and distribution, at companies such as Bal‐ ing more than $3 billion per year. In particular, the newly re‐ dor’s, although these positions have low starting wages, mini‐ located Fulton Fish Market brought 500 jobs and approxi‐ mal growth potential, and non‐traditional working hours that mately $1 billion in sales to the facility. While it is unclear are difficult for families; 3) manufacturing, through building how many of the Fish Market jobs have gone to local resi‐ on the City’s IBZ initiative; 4) medical, focusing on billing and dents, the majority of these positions were relocations from record keeping positions; and 5) retail, although these posi‐ its previous site in Lower Manhattan. tions are often seasonal.
A range of other employment opportunities are available. Several major retailers have operations throughout the South Bronx, though not in Hunts Point, and offer cashier posi‐ tions.14 Positions in truck driving are increasing, with pay av‐ eraging $20 per hour; however, applicants must have a Com‐
22 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
Businesses in Hunts Point by Industry
Wholesale Trades 211
Manufacturing 69
Retail Trades 68
Transportation & Warehousing 51
Real Estate 48
Construction Companies 39
Food Services 22
Administrative, Support, Waste Management, & Remediation Services 21
Health Care & Social Assistance 11
Professional Services 10
Finance & Insurance 7
Arts, Entertainment, & Recreation 1 Other Services: Automative, Beauty Salons, Dry Cleaning, Parking, 53 Nonprofit Organizations 0 50 100 150 200 250
Source: U.S. Dept. of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Neighborhood Profile 23
It is unclear whether large employers in Hunts Point hire lo‐ that the Fulton Fish Market promised jobs to residents, but cal workers then relocated their own workers. Several members of Com‐ One of the most contested issues in Hunts Point centers on munity Board 2 have publicly stated that they do not believe whether employment opportunities generated by the Hunts Point’s large businesses hire sufficient numbers of local neighborhood’s large businesses go to local workers. When workers.18 Also of note, only 33% of respondents said that the Fulton Fish Market relocated to Hunts Point in late 2005 they would be interested in a job at the Food Distribution along with 500 jobs, the vast majority were retained by those Center, and 53% answered that they would not be interested. already holding them at the former Lower Manhattan site. It is difficult to definitively interpret this result, although it is Automation of several functions also resulted in less need for clear that many community members have been turned off to additional workers, and it appears that no specific training or the idea of working at the facility. apprenticeship programs were initiated to target employment opportunities at the Fish Market. On the other hand, one in‐ The salient point that emerged from the local hiring issue in‐ terviewee did note that local Hunts Point contractors are in‐ volves unmet expectations. Prior to large businesses coming volved in the construction of the new Anheuser Busch facility, to Hunts Point, promises are often made to the community although this could not be confirmed. New York City’s De‐ regarding local hiring, but the realities of businesses’ relocat‐ partment of Small Business Services (NYC SBS) also reported ing existing workers, lack of skills among local workers, and that Hunts Point Works helped to increase the presence of other considerations result in promises that are often not South Bronx workers at the Food Distribution Center, al‐ kept. though specific numbers or a break down of Hunts Point resi‐ “The [Hunts Point Economic Development Corpora‐ dents were not available. tion] led a two‐month unpaid training period. For There does not seem to be a consensus among community the first four weeks, there was an apprenticeship members on the issue of local hiring. The survey results show for four hours per day without pay. The second four that 40% responded “Don’t Know” when asked whether the weeks, there was a six‐hour per day apprenticeship Food Distribution Center businesses hire enough workers without pay. Most people cannot afford to work for from the neighborhood, while 32% strongly or somewhat two months without pay. They had twenty people agreed that they do and 28% strongly or somewhat disagreed. These results strongly suggest a lack of information about the to begin with, and by the end of the apprentice‐ issue, which was confirmed by interviewees. Indeed, no one ships there were only two. This is a hard job too. in the neighborhood seems to have any reliable information You are on your feet all day for minimum wage.” on the issue. Several focus group participants emphasized — Focus Group Participant
24 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
Significant barriers to employment exist that make it difficult for the local workforce to be successful “I have a little record and I have not been able to get Hunts Point residents face a variety of barriers to securing sta‐ a job for two years. [Employers] aren’t able to see ble, living wage employment. First, as described above, the local workforce lacks formal education and basic employment past it.” — Focus Group Participant skills. Among survey respondents who are unemployed, lack of employment opportunities and lack of training and/or skills ranked as the greatest obstacles faced in obtaining jobs. Lack Lastly, a major obstacle lies in stereotyped perception of the of information on employment opportunities also ranked Hunts Point workforce. One focus group participant believed highly in response. Furthermore, as noted above, a lack of that one major local employer, for example, will only hire English‐language proficiency among many Spanish‐speaking Hunts Point residents if they already have the requisite skills, residents is a major barrier, and 30% of the Hunts Point popu‐ whereas the company will hire and train employees from lation does not speak English with proficiency.19 other neighborhoods. The perception of Hunts Point resi‐ dents often prevents them from even getting in the door, and Second, several interviewees working at employment agen‐ is an underlying problem that can only be addressed through cies noted that residents’ lack of professionalism, including comprehensive community development efforts. appearance and behavior, is a major obstacle to securing jobs. These interviewees also emphasized that substance abuse and failed drug tests often scare off potential employers, as does an applicant with a criminal record. “There is a prejudice towards people in Hunts Point. People assume you have a record or don’t have the Third, lack of work experience prevents many job seekers skills. They don’t even read over your resume. They from entering new industries. A 2006 study conducted by the Bronx Workforce1 Career Center found that the baseline skills just see Hunt Point at the top of the resume and go to profile for its customers included a high school diploma / GED, the next one.” — Focus Group Participant credentials or licensure for specific industries, basic computer and customer service skills, and an eager population. This av‐ erage skill set generally matched well with employers’ needs, but typically they also require one or more years of relevant work experience, which is often a difficult requirement to meet.
Neighborhood Profile 25
It is important to note that in a typical high‐poverty area, a resume preparation, individual career counseling, online job major barrier to employment would include long commute searching assistance, and other resources. Originally con‐ times. However, although bus service to Hunts Point is cer‐ ceived as a three‐year project totaling $2.475 million, HPW tainly insufficient, New York City’s extensive public transpor‐ was located on Bryant Avenue near Hunts Point Avenue and tation system generally works to mitigate this disadvantage. was operated by Hunts Point Economic Development Corpo‐ According to the survey, 52% of employed respondents re‐ ration (HPEDC).21 ported a commute time of 30 minutes or less, and 81% of less than one hour. As expected, 55% of employed respondents commute to work via subway, bus, or both. Interestingly, when asked about their preferred mode of commuting, 28% of employed respondents chose commuting by car as their preferred means, with only 6% selecting by bike and 14% on foot. This result may indicate residents’ desire for automobile ownership, which they likely do not have.
A range of employment services are available to the work‐ force through City agencies and local organizations Hunts Point residents have a range of options for employ‐ ment training and placement services, including both City‐ funded agencies and local nonprofit organizations. The most prominent include:
Hunts Point Works As a result of the Hunts Point Vision Plan, a 2005 process and The site of Hunts Point Works, which has been closed since June 2007. development agenda led by the Hunts Point Task Force and the Bloomberg administration, NYC SBS established Hunts HPEDC, and to a somewhat lesser extent, City agencies, de‐ Point Works (HPW) as a demonstration project from March scribe HPW as a successful project. According to NYC SBS fig‐ 2005 to June 2007. The purpose of this service was to com‐ ures, HPW served 2,785 different clients in 16,275 visits. Ap‐ plement the Bronx Workforce1 Career Center by providing proximately 270 clients sought services at HPW each week, targeted assistance to Hunts Point businesses in hiring local and 50% of new clients in 2006 identified as Hispanic / Latino. workers.20 Its services included job searching and placement, According to HPEDC statistics, HPW’s rate of placing clients
26 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
increased steadily, and by the final months prior to its closure, phasizing that it served a large number of clients with quality the service was placing 70 to 90 clients per month in jobs— assistance and increased the presence of South Bronx resi‐ above the stated goal of 60 placements per month, per dents at the Food Distribution Center, but noting as well that HPEDC’s contract with the City. a greater array of skill building and stronger relationships with community groups would help the local workforce. In total, according to HPEDC, HPW placed approximately 1,300 jobseekers. More than 80% of these clients were Bronx Bronx Workforce1 Career Center residents, and approximately 30% were Hunts Point residents. This borough‐wide Career Center, located on 149th Street at Information was not available on the specific jobs or retention 3rd Avenue, is the central service provider for the Bronx under rates for Hunts Point clients. It is also unclear what, if any, the City’s Workforce Investment Act (WIA) system, serving efforts were made to increase the percentage of clients from thousands of jobseekers and businesses annually. The Center Hunts Point beyond the 30% mark. is operated by the Wildcat Service Corporation (Wildcat), a nonprofit organization, and the Bronx Overall Economic De‐ In July 2007, NYC SBS released an RFP to reopen HPW for a velopment Corporation (BOEDC). The New York State Depart‐ three‐year period, expected to begin in March 2008. The con‐ ment of Labor also operates a job bank under the Center by tract has not been awarded as yet, though HPEDC has collabo‐ screening clients and registering businesses. Job training ser‐ rated with another organization on a proposal submission. vices include short‐term ESL trainings and soft skills such as The expectation for the next iteration of HPW is that 600 job‐ interviewing, resume preparation, and networking. Targeted seekers will be placed into positions each year, and that it will employment positions include construction, clerical, adminis‐ concentrate on job‐readiness preparation, pre‐vocational trative, and nursing. In order to place clients, Workforce1 skills development, and access to ESL and literacy services. builds relationships with large employers throughout the Bronx, such as Con Edison, Verizon, Baldor’s, the Fulton Fish The first iteration of HPW had significant accomplishments in Market, and Anheuser Busch. Wildcat also conducts outreach placing clients in jobs, but during focus groups and interviews, to local businesses on unemployment insurance, EEO labor some community members questioned its effectiveness in laws, prevailing wage, OSHA, EZ tax credits, labor standards, reaching needy residents throughout the neighborhood. Oth‐ and general HR consulting. ers questioned the quality of customer service provided by HPW’s staff. In addition, several community members ex‐ pressed frustration that HPW’s perspective was overly fo‐ cused on business, rather than worker, needs. Interviewees from relevant City agencies had mixed reviews of HPW, em‐
Neighborhood Profile 27
The Bronx Business Solutions Center is a complementary facil‐ In general, interviewees and focus group participants identi‐ ity also located at the Workforce1 Career Center that provides fied the following components as critical to a strong job small businesses with various services such as incentive pro‐ preparation program: grams, procurement opportunities, financing assistance, and navigating permit and other needs. This facility is operated by • Provides hands on, one on one, training Wildcat and BOEDC. • Teaches basic computer skills • Teaches basic language skills (including ESL) Local Organizations • Provides childcare A range of local community groups offer workforce develop‐ • Certifies participants in various trade licenses ment opportunities through discrete programming. SSB oper‐ ates the Bronx Environmental Stewardship Training Program Residents are not well connected to employment service (B.E.S.T.), through which 83% of graduates have found jobs or agencies enrolled in college, and of these, 70% now hold “green collar Despite the availability of these entities and other employ‐ jobs.”22 Another local organization, Rocking the Boat, uses ment assistance, the survey, focus groups, and interviews re‐ traditional woodworking and environmental education as de‐ vealed that Hunts Point residents are not well connected to velopment tools for working with high school youth. This pro‐ the City’s service agencies and generally do not receive the gram provides after‐school and summer youth development support they require in job training and placement. The sur‐ activities, resulting in the construction of approximately three vey results indicate that respondents overwhelmingly have boats per year. The organization also implements a range of found jobs in the past through advertisements and family or projects aimed at environmental education. Approximately friends (343 respondents reported finding jobs through these 95% of participants are from the Bronx; data specific to Hunts channels). Comparatively, only 123 respondents reported Point was not available. Finally, Per Scholas operates a com‐ that they have found a job through a placement service or puter center and offers training opportunities to residents, professional network. Furthermore, only 9% of respondents and the Federation Employment and Guidance Service Health (40 total) have ever used job training or placement services & Human Services System (FEGS) is a career development in‐ offered in Hunts Point. Of that small group, 68% responded stitute that serves the Bronx. that they did find the services helpful.
In particular, several community members in interviews ex‐ pressed that HPW did not fully succeed in building relation‐ ships with local organizations, and, thus, with residents. HPW’s original mandate called for building and institutionaliz‐
28 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
ing connections with community groups, but anecdotal evi‐ The survey results indicate that respondents are most inter‐ dence suggests that this did not occur. Local groups are criti‐ ested in apprenticeship opportunities in education, food ser‐ cal for referring residents to employment services and provid‐ vice, environmental restoration, and construction, as well as ing ongoing comprehensive support as well as targeted train‐ in clerical positions. With the exception of environmental res‐ ings in technical skills. Clearly, these findings combine to sug‐ toration, and perhaps construction, these responses suggest gest the need for greater attention to be placed on outreach that on‐the‐job learning opportunities are likely not meeting efforts. the needs and interests of the local workforce.
Apprenticeship programs may not be meeting the diversity of residents’ interests and needs Job Training Services or Apprenticeships of Interest to Given that the Hunts Point workforce lacks practical experi‐ Survey Respondents ence, apprenticeship and internship opportunities are espe‐ Education 167 cially important for improving employment prospects. The Food Service 105 apprenticeship programs available to residents are largely co‐ Environmental Restoration 96 ordinated by local organizations. For example, the Point CDC Clerical 89 Construction 84 implements the Action Program, an after‐school teen devel‐ General 82 opment project that provides skills in advocacy and commu‐ Technological 65 nity organizing, media and technology training, resume writ‐ Law Enforcement 52 Mechanical 52 ing, cover letters, mock interviews. The program enrolls 20 Retail 43 high school students at a time, approximately 25% of whom Other 8 usually come from Hunts Point, and has resulted in temporary 0 50 100 150 200 and summer jobs. SSB’s B.E.S.T. program and Rocking the Boat’s building program, described above, also offer hands‐on Responses based on “check all that apply” from 425 surveys. experiences that build resumes and can lead to employment positions. In addition, Bronx Community College implements PROJECT H.I.R.E., in which participants learn building trades and property maintenance through construction projects over a free 20‐week, 600‐hour training program. Skills include plumbing, carpentry, electrical wiring, boiler operations, painting, tiling and sheet rock installation, as well as profes‐ sional job search skills.
Neighborhood Profile 29
Informal economic activity represents a potential area of economic growth Measuring informal economic activity—food vending, child‐ care, tailoring, nursing, for example—is beyond the scope of this project. However, supporting such enterprises is critical to assisting workers with supplementing their income, and eventually transitioning into formalized business ventures. As noted above, Hunts Point’s IBZ, Empire, and Empowerment Zone designations can contribute to business development through financial incentives and support. According to sev‐ eral interviewees at City agencies, however, many small busi‐ ness owners fail to capitalize on low‐interest loans and tax credits, both because of lack of awareness and the strict re‐ quirements that may render such options prohibitive. Train‐ ing Grants offered by NYC Business Solutions are available as well, but small businesses are often unaware of these grants and they also carry several prerequisites that are often too stringent for small businesses.
With 79 survey respondents reporting that they make or sell goods or services through informal means, there is a relatively substantial amount of potential enterprises in Hunts Point that can be supported.
Housing typology in Hunts Point.
30 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
3.3 Housing Housing Typology- Hunts Point
Hunts Point and Bronx CD 2 are growing as residential com‐ 1-unit munities detached, 3% 1-unit attached, 4% According to the 2000 U.S. Census, Hunts Point had 3,816 2 units, 8% housing units, while Bronx CD 2 as a whole had 21,246. This area grew at a rate 36% faster than that of the Bronx from 3 - 4 units, 7% 2002‐2005, based on the proportional number of new certifi‐ cates of occupancy issued. In that timeframe, there were 346 5 - 9 units, 8% new housing units created in Bronx CD 2, a 1.6% growth rate. 20+ units, 63% New York City’s housing stock grew at a rate of 2.3% over that 10 - 19 units, 8% time.23
The housing typology of Hunts Point and Bronx CD 2 is over‐ whelmingly dominated by mid‐rise, multi‐family rental build‐ Source: 2000 U.S. Census. ings 64.5% of housing units in Hunts Point ‐ 63% in Bronx CD 2 ‐ are found in buildings of 20 or more units, a significant con‐ Housing Typology- Bronx CD 2 centration that speaks to the density of the residential core. As the scale of housing type decreases, so does its prevalence 1-unit det ached, 2% 1-unit at t ached, in the housing mix; only 3% of the housing in Hunts Point are 3% single family detached homes. This housing type only makes 2 unit s, 5% 3 - 4 units, 7% up 1.5% of the homes in Bronx CD 2. 5 - 9 units, 8%
10 - 19 unit s, 20+ units, 12 % 64.5%
Source: 2000 U.S. Census.
Neighborhood Profile 31
The quality of the housing stock is a significant issue The community has an extremely low homeownership rate With a median age of 81 years, the housing stock of Bronx CD Due to high costs of living and real estate, New York City’s 2 is the 9th oldest CD in the City.24 While this is not necessarily homeownership rate, at 33.3%, substantially trails the na‐ an indicator of quality, the high prevalence of serious housing tional rate, which approaches 70%. The Bronx’s overall rate is code violations (156 per 1,000 rental units, which makes it the 22.1%. The rate in Bronx CD 2, though, is a fraction of these 6th highest CD City‐wide in this regard)25 suggests that many figures, at 6.1%, and is the second lowest CD in the City.27 buildings and units may be in significant states of disrepair. The importance of homeownership for a community, particu‐ The neighborhood also exhibits a high rate of overcrowding. larly a low– or moderate‐income one, can hardly be over‐ Defined as more than one occupant per room in the home by stated. As a wealth‐generating engine, homeownership al‐ the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development lows residents not to rely solely on wages and other invest‐ (HUD), Hunts Point has a 28% overcrowding rate, with Bronx ments, and opens them up to credit markets that may, in CD 2 at 26%, nearly doubling New York City’s rate of 15%.26 turn, stimulate the community’s economy. Further, home‐ ownership causes residents to invest – literally and figura‐ tively – in their communities, compelling them to take active steps towards protecting their investment and often becom‐ “Landlords are quick to evict you, but take a long ing more civically active. time fixing things.” — Focus Group Participant
Homeownership Rates
Bronx CD 2 6.1%
Bronx 22.1%
NYC 33.3%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40%
Source: NYC Housing and Vacancy Survey 2005.
32 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
Rents are among the lowest in the City, but remain difficult Community members overwhelmingly want residential to afford growth, but are dissatisfied with available housing options Hunts Point / Mott Haven have a median rent of $650, the 88% of survey respondents said that they would like Hunts third lowest in the City.28 Still, community members struggle Point to grow as a residential community, and they are con‐ to pay their rent. 24.6% experience a “severe rent burden”29 cerned about the quality and accessibility of housing, and only and the median percentage of income spent on rent is 11% of respondents identified housing options as one of the 30.8%.30 Given that 30% represents HUD’s affordability level, things they liked most about the neighborhood. Conversely, a median percentage that exceeds this number indicates that more than double that number – 23% – identified housing a majority of residents do not have affordable housing. options as one of the most pressing concerns in the neighbor‐ hood. Rental vacancy rates are extremely low While New York City has one of the lowest rental vacancy Growing the housing stock is one method of alleviating the rates in the nation at 3.1%, the figure for the Bronx is 2.6%. cost of housing. When asked to choose from the types of However, the market in Hunts Point and Mott Haven is ex‐ housing they would like to see developed in the area, 58% of tremely tight at .9% vacancy, the third lowest rate in the survey respondents desired low‐income rental. 55.5% also City.31 This figure points to a tremendous demand for more chose low‐income homeownership. The third most popular affordable housing. response was public housing at 29%, with mixed‐income rental next at 27%. Both of these choices represent a signifi‐ cant drop in interest from the two most popular answers. Vacancy Rates Only 6.5% of respondents indicated that they would like to see more market‐rate rental housing.
Hunts Point / Mott Haven 0.9% Community members overwhelmingly feel that the residen‐ tial core is well‐supplied with basic services and necessities Bronx 2.6% 92% of survey respondents generally agreed with the state‐ ment, “My housing is located near grocery stores, services, NYC 3.1% schools, parks and playgrounds, and other daily needs.” Over two‐thirds of respondents, in fact, strongly agreed with that 0% 1% 2% 3% 4% statement, though participants also noted that there is a lim‐ ited selection of businesses from which to choose. Source: NYC Housing and Vacancy Survey 2005.
Neighborhood Profile 33
Focus group participants and interviewees also pointed out that the neighborhood lacked amenities important to the quality of life, but which would not generally be considered basic necessities. One interviewee, for instance, noted that the area does not have a movie theater or sit‐down restau‐ rants, causing residents to feel isolated and to have to leave for entertainment. “We don’t have any movie theaters or sit down res‐ taurants. We have to leave our neighborhood for en‐ tertainment.” — Interviewee
Community members would like to see residential housing developed in several areas Nearly 50 acres in Hunts Point are vacant or potentially con‐ taminated.32 Coupled with the potential for significant water‐ front development and the question of how to best negotiate the needs of a residential core, an industrial sector, a devel‐ opable waterfront, and the Food Distribution Center, Hunts Point offers a variety of land use opportunities.
38% of survey respondents said they would like to see new housing developed on the waterfront, the most popular re‐ sponse to that question. The second‐most popular answer, at 24%, was to add housing in the existing residential core, and 22% responded that they would like to see housing in con‐ verted industrial buildings near the Food Distribution Center. These desires seem to be at odds with current waterfront uses, however, and housing is not mentioned as an option in the Hunts Point Task Force’s discussion of waterfront access in its Vision Plan.
34 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
3.4 Recreational Areas
Hunts Point has few parks and recreational spaces With just 2% of its total area available for park and recrea‐ tional spaces, Hunts Point has one of the lowest resident‐to‐ park space ratios in New York City.33 According to the draft 197‐a Plan included in the Planning for all New Yorkers: Brief‐ ing Book of Community‐Based Plans compiled by the Munici‐ pal Arts Society, Hunts Point has over six miles of waterfront on three bodies of water. The neighborhood, however, had legal access to only 200 feet of waterfront before the creation of Barretto Point and Hunts Point Riverside Parks. Moreover, the draft 197‐a Plan states that this community district has less than half an acre of park land per 1,000 people, which is far below the National Parks Service recommendation of six acres per 1,000 people.34 Several interviewees concurred that Children playing in Hunts Point Riverside Park. Hunts Point does not have enough park or recreational spaces. Parks and recreational spaces are increasing in Hunts Point There are multiple ramifications from this situation. The lack Recognizing the severity of the situation, numerous organiza‐ of appropriate outdoor space for physical activity is a contrib‐ tions and the City of New York are working to increase park uting factor to obesity and its attendant health problems. and recreational spaces in Hunts Point. In the past five years, Given that the availability of youth programs ranked as the the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation has third most pressing concern of survey respondents, the lack of invested more than $125 million for Bronx park improve‐ recreational space may well be a limiting factor in the offering ments, and is planning to invest an additional $560 million to of such programs. Not least, the feel of the community is develop park projects in the Bronx over the next five years. negatively affected by the lack of safe outdoor space, particu‐ Of this amount, more than $200 million has been earmarked larly as some children take their school recess on the sidewalk for the construction of the Croton Water Filtration Plant.35 and often must go home directly after school for safety con‐ cerns. The South Bronx Greenway Project is a community‐led plan spearheaded by SSB and The Point Community Development
Neighborhood Profile 35
Corporation to establish continuous bicycle and pedestrian designated as a brownfield in 2001 when the Department of paths both inland and on the waterfront between the Bronx Parks and Recreation acquired it from the Department of En‐ River Greenway (a recreational path that stretches from the vironmental Protection.38 39 South Bronx and Westchester County, scheduled to be fully operational by 2012) and Randall’s Island. The City recently Hunts Point Riverside Park officially opened in August 2007. approved over $10 million to be designated for the Greenway Previously an illegal dumping ground leading to the Bronx as part of the work of the Hunts Point Task Force. The Task River, the site is now a 1.4‐acre park, providing direct water‐ Force is comprised of community representatives, elected of‐ front access via fishing and recreational docks. The project ficials and government agencies to address critical concerns in represents a $3.3 million investment of City funds.40 Located Hunts Point; namely land use, workforce, improving connec‐ at the beginning of the Bronx River Greenway, the park will tions to and within the Hunts Point peninsula, and traffic ultimately link the Bronx River Greenway with the proposed safety. The Task Force’s work culminated in the Hunts Point South Bronx Greenway. Vision Plan in 2005. The ensuing South Bronx Greenway Plan, released in December 2006, details short‐, medium‐, and The increase in available park space may contribute to lower long‐term projects to 1) provide waterfront access to the incidences of crime in the community. The 41st Precinct South Bronx; 2) connect to the City’s existing and proposed noted that there was less criminal activity in Hunts Point dur‐ greenway projects; 3) create alternative means of transporta‐ ing the summer of 2007 than anticipated, possibly due to the tion; 4) improve air quality; and 5) provide opportunities for fact that community members now have two new recrea‐ economic development.36 tional spaces.
Available park space in Hunts Point has increased dramatically in the past twelve months, with the opening of Barretto Point “The parks are lovely…they’re beautiful, but you’ve Park and Hunts Point Riverside Park. In addition, Manida Park got to be able to use them.” and the Julio Carballo Ball Fields are undergoing a $1 million — Focus Group Participant renovation project funded by the Department of Parks and Recreation.37
Barretto Point Park is a five‐acre waterfront park along the East River that opened in October 2006 and represents a $7.2 million investment of City and State funds. A former sand, gravel and asphalt plant site, the land was abandoned and
36 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
light and crosswalk at the intersection of Edgewater and La‐ fayette Avenues, and station a flag‐person by the railroad tracks.41
Barretto Point Park is far and remote Even though Barretto Point Park is now fully operational, sev‐ eral focus group and interview participants indicated that the park is too far and too remote to enjoy on a regular basis. It is at least a 20‐minute walk from the nearest subway station, and is almost as long a walk from the neighborhood’s residen‐ tial corridor. The Bx6 bus currently does not stop near the park. Therefore, unless community members drive, their only access is by walking through the industrial areas that sur‐ round the waterfront. One interviewee noted that even though her school’s first grade students completed a class project on the park, it was too far for the students to visit. Railroad tracks along Edgewater Road. Another interviewee agreed that it is difficult to get an audi‐ ence to attend an organization’s artistic productions at the Despite the development of new parks, safe access remains park because of the lack of public transportation. a significant issue While there is increased available park and recreational space In winter 2008, a free shuttle bus service for employees at the for community members, access to such spaces remains an Food Distribution Center will travel to Barretto Point Park and issue. For example, while Barretto Point Park officially around the Hunts Point Peninsula. This service will not be of‐ opened in fall 2006, its hours and staffing were erratic until fered to non‐employees, at least initially. It is funded through recently, due to limited City resources. Hunts Point Riverside operating grants from the Empowerment Zone and the Bronx Park, for its part, was also mostly completed by fall 2006, but Initiative for Energy and the Environment (BIEE). BIEE is an did not officially open until nearly one year later, so that there initiative of the Bronx Borough President and the Bronx Over‐ would be a safer access route for park goers; the park lies on all Economic Development Corporation (BOEDC) to imple‐ the far side of a major commercial intersection and active rail‐ ment energy efficient measures and new technologies to im‐ road track, both serving the nearby Hunts Point Food Distribu‐ prove air quality in the Bronx. Three 18‐passenger shuttle tion Center. The City therefore first needed to install a traffic vans will pick up workers at the 2, 5, and 6 train stations and
Neighborhood Profile 37
will stop at points on the peninsula not currently served by the Bx6 bus, including Barretto Point Park. In addition, the service will utilize hybrid electric vans designed to optimize fuel usage and reduce emissions, which is especially encour‐ aging in a neighborhood with high childhood asthma rates.42
Community members are not fully informed about new parks In the case of both new parks, several focus group partici‐ pants and interviewees noted that these additions had yet to have an impact on the community because many community members still are not aware that they exist. Several partici‐ pants sounded hopeful that more people would take advan‐ tage of Hunt Point Riverside Park, since it is closer to the resi‐ dential corridor. At the same time, some participants ex‐ pressed concern about having to cross railroad tracks to get to the park. Youth participating in SSB’s First Annual Hunts Point Hustle 5k Race at Barretto Point Park.
Safety, cleanliness, access and additional parks are impor‐ tant to community members When it comes to parks and recreational spaces, issues of safety, cleanliness, and access are important to community members, as well as creating more such spaces. Survey re‐ spondents were asked to indicate the ways in which Hunts Point could improve its parks and playgrounds and ball fields. In both instances, respondents prioritized making the spaces safer, cleaner, creating more such spaces, and making them easier to reach.
38 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
How Hunts Point Could Most Improve its Parks
Make parks safer 214 Make parks cleaner 205 Create more parks 176 Make parks easier to reach 133 Change park hours 84 Include dog runs 58 Create more activities, equipment, facilities 16 Other 7 Don't know 31
0 50 100 150 200 250
Responses based on “check all that apply” from 425 surveys.
How Hunts Point Could Most Improve its Playgrounds & Ball Fields
Make p/bfs safer 217
Make p/bf cleaner 186
Create more p/bf 172
Make p/bf easier to reach 142
Change p/bf hours 81
Other 9
Don't know 40
0 50 100 150 200 250
Responses based on “check all that apply” from 425 surveys.
Neighborhood Profile 39
40 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
3.5 Community Health of serious health issues for adults and children alike.
Community members are greatly concerned about health HIV / AIDS rates are extremely high and growing much conditions faster than in the City as a whole Unlike most other “check all that apply” questions, survey re‐ Despite the fact that Hunts Point and Mott Haven residents spondents heavily weighted numerous choices, indicating an test for HIV / AIDS more regularly than those in the Bronx and especial concern with health conditions in Hunts Point. Fur‐ City‐wide (42% of residents were tested within the past year, thermore, the greatest number of survey respondents (139) as opposed to 34% for the Bronx and 23% City‐wide.),43 fig‐ identified health conditions as one of their most pressing con‐ ures available through the New York City Department of cerns about Hunts Point (see p. 51). Indeed, respondents’ Health and Mental Hygiene are staggering: in Hunts Point, concerns dovetail with the findings of a wide variety of stud‐ there are 17 incidences of HIV / AIDS per 1,000 residents, sub‐ ies – Hunts Point and its surrounding areas exhibit indicators stantially higher than the Bronx as a whole (11.1), and nearly doubling the City rate (9.2).44 Fur‐ Important Community Health Issues for Hunts Point ther, this disparity is poised to grow as new diagnoses are also much Air Pollution 285 higher in Hunts Point: 2.3 per 1,000 Substance Abuse among Adults 246 residents, as opposed to 1.3 in the Bad Smell throughout Neighborhood 240 Bronx, and nearly triple the rate 45 Substance Abuse among Youth 232 of .8 City‐wide. Asthma among Youth 230 Asthma among Adults 213 Though the high rate of testing sug‐ gests that the community is aware Noise Pollution 165 of and concerned by this threat, the Obesity among Youth 164 continued high incidence of infec‐ Obesity among Adults 153 tion requires a response. Diabetes among Adults 138 Diabetes among Youth 120 Some existing programs are under‐ Other 12 utilized. One issue identified by in‐ Don't Know 21 terviewees is that while several or‐
0 50 100 150 200 250 300 ganizations provide needle ex‐ change programs, usage of these Responses based on “check all that apply” from 425 surveys. Neighborhood Profile 41
services is down, in part because of aggressive “quality of life” arrest policies that keep sex workers and others from using services for fear of being identified, visible, and targeted.
Asthma incidence is decreasing among children, but contin‐ ues to be a great concern for both children and adults City‐wide, asthma is by far the greatest cause of child hospi‐ talization, with nearly 10,000 cases in 2000. In comparison, there were 7,000 child hospitalizations for all injuries com‐ bined in that same time period.46 While child asthma hospi‐ talizations have decreased dramatically in the community – by nearly 65% from 1995 to 2004 – the rate remains significantly higher, at 10 incidences per 1,000 residents, than in the Bronx (9.2) and throughout the City (6.1).47 Survey data indicate that community members are concerned about both child‐ hood and adult asthma, as it was ranked among the top health concerns.
One of the 15,000 trucks that pass through Hunts Point every day. Disturbingly, adult asthma incidence is on the rise in the neighborhood, with hospitalizations increasing from 9 per “[The trucks] come through a lot of streets they’re 1,000 residents in 1996 to 11 in 2006, while the City‐wide av‐ not supposed to touch.” — Focus Group Participant erage has remained consistent at 3.48 Indeed, 9% of adults in Hunts Point / Mott Haven report having asthma, while the City‐wide rate is 5%.49 15,000 trucks, pass through Hunts Point every day.50
It is important to note that air pollution, a known asthma trig‐ Hunts Point has the highest prevalence of diabetes in New ger, ranked first among survey respondents as an important York City51 community health issue. Furthermore, the “bad smell” Diabetes is an especially important issue to address in this ranked third. Community members are clearly concerned community. 13% of residents have been positively diagnosed, about their air quality and its attendant health issues ‐ the as compared to 7.9% for New York City overall.52 Hunts Point Task Force found that 77,000 vehicles, including
42 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
It is hard to overstate the importance of diabetes awareness. In the absence of proper treatment, including dietary educa‐ Obesity Rates tion and modification, diabetes is a potentially debilitating NY C 16.6% disease that often results in loss of sensation in extremities Bronx and eventual amputation, as well as blindness or death. How‐ 21.8% ever, with active management, the disease may be regulated Hunts Point 27.0% with great success. 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%
Diabetes received the least attention among community health concerns, suggesting a need for increased education Source: Obesity in the South Bronx: A Look Across Generations; and outreach, screening, and outreach. It should be noted, Bronx District Health Office of the NYC Department of Health and however, that both conditions were selected by a significant Mental Hygiene, May 2007. number of respondents. In an interview, a local school ad‐ ministrator noted that there is a distinct lack of early diagnos‐ In an interview, a local youth services provider and advocate tic testing of children’s health. noted that there is a “lack of access to quality foods” in the neighborhood. While market‐based solutions may address Hunts Point has a high rate of obesity the lack of access to higher quality food, the community must Obesity carries an increased risk of diabetes, high blood pres‐ also be educated on the value and use of healthier, whole sure, cancer, and heart disease, and is increasingly an issue foods. A local healthcare provider said that “people don’t just identified with low‐income communities. 27% of Hunts Point change their diet after reading a pamphlet or hearing it from residents are obese, significantly higher than the 21.8% rate their doctor. They must commit to changing. Dieticians of Bronx residents. This rate is more than 50% higher than should be covered by health insurance.” that of New York City overall, at 16.6%.53 Exacerbating this issue is the fact that there is a lack of appro‐ Disturbingly, this rate is poised to increase. 31% of Hunts priate outdoor space for physical activity. A school director Point children in Head Start programs – averaging 3.5 years said that “students have recess on the sidewalk,” and even old – are obese, and obese children are more likely to become though the parks that exist are “ideal,” they are “too far to obese adults.54 Survey respondents did not select obesity as much as other health issues, suggesting a lack of awareness of “There is a lack of access to quality foods [here].” this serious condition. — Interviewee, Youth Leader
Neighborhood Profile 43
walk” from the residential core of the neighborhood. Parents Many uninsured are eligible for public health insurance also often keep children at home after school for safety rea‐ 79% of community residents indicate that they have health sons. insurance.56 At the same time, Bronx CD 2 also has approxi‐ mately 18,000 residents who are eligible for public health in‐ surance but not enrolled, making it one of the highest Com‐ “My students have recess on the sidewalk…the new munity Districts in this regard.57 While it is unclear how many parks are ideal, but they are too far to walk to.” of the un‐enrolled are participating in private insurance pro‐ — Interviewee, School Administrator grams, low‐income families are typically less likely to have pri‐ vate insurance, and it is probable that many gaps in coverage are going unfilled
Substance abuse indicators are rising Community members rate their own health as poor Alcohol and drug abuse is growing in the neighborhood. Alco‐ The community’s own perception is that its health is poor, hol‐related hospitalizations (both acute and chronic) in Hunts signifying a level of distress. When asked to rate their own Point / Mott Haven increased more than 20% in the past dec‐ health, 43% of the residents of Hunts Point / Mott Haven ade to 87.7 incidences per 10,000 residents, a rate 55% rated their health as “fair or poor,” as compared to 28% of greater than that of the Bronx, (56.9), and double that of New Bronx residents, and 21% of New York City residents overall.58 York City (43.9).55 Percentage of People Who Rate their Health as Drug‐related hospitalizations increased nearly 25% from "Fair" to "Poor" 1999‐2004 to 234.4 per 10,000 residents, nearly doubling the Bronx rate (125.8), and nearly quadrupling the New York City NYC 21.0% rate (59.5).
Bronx 28.0% Survey data reveal that the community is aware of and con‐ cerned with this issue: substance abuse among adults and Hunts Point / Mott 43.0% youth ranked as respondents’ second and fourth greatest Haven health concerns, respectively. 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50%
Source: Take Care NY Community Health Profile: Hunts Point and Mott Haven, Second Edition; New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, 2006.
44 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
3.6 Public Safety One interviewee pointed to Spofford Avenue as a street known for its prostitution activity and added that many sex Community members’ perceptions of safety are ambivalent workers are known to reside in a building on Hunts Point and While the external perception of Hunts Point may have once Lafayette Avenues. been that of a dangerous, high‐crime area, a large majority of survey respondents (71%) indicated that they generally feel safe in the neighborhood. At the same time, only 27.5% of Female Respondents' Perceptions of Safety: "I generally feel safe in Hunts Point" respondents said that they strongly agree with that state‐ ment, which suggests that public safety remains an issue. Don't know, 4% Strongly agree, Strongly disagree, 22% Respondents' Perceptions of Safety: 17 % "I generally feel safe in Hunts Point" Somewhat disagree, 17% Somewhat agree, Don't know, 3% 40% Strongly disagree, Strongly agree, 13 % 28% Somewhat disagree, 13% Responses based on 196 total surveys completed by females.
Somewhat agree, 43%
Male Respondents' Perceptions of Safety: Responses based on 425 surveys. "I generally feel safe in Hunts Point " It should be noted that perceptions of safety varied between Don't know, 3% male and female survey respondents. For example, 32% of all St rongly disagree, 9% St rongly agree, 32% male respondents indicated that they would “strongly agree” Somewhat disagree, 9% with the statement, “I generally feel safe in Hunts Point,” while just 22% of all female respondents replied similarly. Somewhat agree, 47% The prevalence of prostitution in the area may account for some of this disparity. Several female focus group partici‐ Responses based on 224 total surveys completed by males. pants and interviewees of varying ages noted that they felt unsafe walking in certain parts of the neighborhood for fear of being mistaken for a sex worker and propositioned by men.
Neighborhood Profile 45
Focus group participants cited several locations in Hunts Point Respondents' Perceptions of Police Presence where they feel unsafe, notably Lafayette, Hunts Point, and Seneca Avenues. An interview with the 41st Precinct, the po‐ lice precinct for Hunts Point, confirmed the above‐mentioned Don't know, 13% Too much police Not enough areas as places of high drug activity and prostitution, as well presence, 12% police presence, as Randall Avenue and Manida and Whittier Streets. The pre‐ 44% Sufficient police cinct also noted that areas of high drug activity and prostitu‐ presence, 32% tion often correspond as these tend to be poorer areas, areas with less street lighting, and areas that while residential, are still fairly isolated. Responses based on 425 surveys.
The perception among some community members that Hunts At the same time, when surveyors were asked what changes Point is unsafe was further supported by interviews with could be made so they would feel safer in the neighborhood, school administrators who stated that many of their students, the greatest number of respondents cited “more police pres‐ especially girls, go directly home from school each day and ence,” followed closely by “Neighborhood Watch program,” are not allowed to play outside, largely due to safety con‐ and “additional street lighting.” cerns.
Community members are ambivalent towards police pres‐ ence How Respondents Would Feel Safer in Hunts Point Policing any perceived high‐crime area can pose a difficult More police presence 211 challenge in balancing an aggressive program to deter or stop Neighborhood Watch program 197 crime while maintaining cooperative, trusting community re‐ lations. Survey respondents were mixed in their perceptions Additional street lighting 131 of the adequacy of the neighborhood’s police presence. More public transportation 64 While 44% of respondents agreed that there is not enough of More people on the streets 54 a police presence, another 32% replied that there is enough, Other 17 while 12% replied that there is too much. Don't know 41
0 50 100 150 200 250
Responses based on “check all that apply” from 425 surveys.
46 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
Interestingly, a handful of respondents wrote in their own an‐ Respondents' Perceptions of Drug Dealing in swers showing a dissatisfaction with policing, pointing to‐ Hunts Point wards police behavior. While the number of such responses is statistically small, they may be instructive in light of the Don't know , nearly 12% of respondents who indicated that there is “too 17% much” of a police presence. Some focus group participants Not a problem, also expressed frustration regarding the type of police pres‐ 5% Minor problem, Major problem, ence. They indicated that policing efforts were not effective 18% 60% because community members were at times apprehended for what they considered to be minor offenses, while offenses such as prostitution or drug activity persist. One focus group participant wondered why, if she can see prostitution activity, Responses based on 425 surveys. the police could not. Other focus group members suggested that the community and the police need to work together to Community members cite drug dealing and prostitution as address public safety concerns and improve relations. major problems In describing her perception of the prevalence of drugs and prostitution in the neighborhood, one focus group participant said, “You’ve got it all. This is Hunts Point. You name it, and “The police and the community should build a strong it’s here.” Indeed, when asked, 60% of survey respondents relationship. Right now, the police don’t trust the stated that they considered drug dealing a “major problem.” people and the people don’t trust the police.” Nearly the same percentage of respondents (58%) stated that – Focus Group Participant they considered prostitution a “major problem.”
The issue of prostitution, however, is one that reveals a marked difference between male and female survey respon‐ dents. 70% percent of all female respondents considered prostitution a “major issue” while 47% of all male respon‐ dents considered it as such. This difference may be in part attributed to the particular concerns of personal safety women face when they are mistaken for sex workers.
Neighborhood Profile 47
Female Respondents' Perceptions of Prostitution going to and from the Food Distribution Center often travel in Hunts Point on residential streets not intended for commercial traffic and that many cars and trucks speed in front of local schools, par‐ ticularly in front of PS 48 on Spofford Avenue. Don't know , 9% Not a problem, 8% Prostitution in Hunts Point is both a major public safety and community health concern Minor problem, For the purposes of this report, the issue of prostitution and 13% Major problem, 70% sex workers will be addressed as both a public safety issue— to the extent that such activities may impact the perception of safety and well‐being, particularly for girls and women in Responses based on 197 total surveys completed by females. the neighborhood—and a community health issue—to the extent that sex workers may require health and other social Male Respondents' Perceptions of Prostitution services. in Hunts Point Prostitution was identified as a major community concern Don't know , among survey respondents, focus group participants, and sev‐ 16% eral interviewees. At the same time, however, few people could define the scope of the issue or point to organizations Not a problem, Major problem, 14% 47% providing outreach and services to sex workers. Several or‐ ganizations that provide information about and services to Minor problem, sex workers in New York City that were contacted for this pro‐ 23% ject agree with the local perception that there has consis‐ tently been high levels of sex‐work activity in Hunts Point and Responses based on 225 total surveys completed by males. the South Bronx. Such organizations also agreed that there are few services available to sex workers in Hunts Point and Focus group participants cited other public safety concerns. New York City as a whole. For example, several participants noted what they considered to be the rampant presence of threatening pit bulls, especially Increased arrests for ‘quality of life’ violations, beginning with if the dogs are leashed by children or others who cannot con‐ the Giuliani administration, have had at least two significant trol them. Participants also pointed to the fact that trucks impacts on the sex work industry in New York City. First, in‐
48 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
creased policing efforts in highly visible neighborhoods of Citiwide Harm Reduction, one of the organizations contacted, Manhattan have caused sex workers to move to the outer stated that it serves anywhere from three to 20 people per boroughs. Second, increased policing has caused sex workers day in Hunts Point, with factors such as weather or recent po‐ to go further underground, making it more difficult for organi‐ lice activity as variables. The majority of the people who ap‐ zations to provide outreach and services to this already vul‐ proach their van for services are women in their late 20s or nerable population. 30s; however, the organization sees women of all ages, in‐ cluding some in their 50s. They also see a number of trans‐ The Sex Workers Project of the Urban Justice Center issued gender individuals, and one or two boys. Some of the most two reports analyzing indoor sex work (2005) and street‐ pressing needs of the sex workers known to this organization based prostitution (2003) in New York City. Both reports include: securing stable housing, receiving information about found that sex workers face a number of problems, in particu‐ their legal rights, health concerns, and general safety; and re‐ lar: ceiving legal advocacy assistance.
• Excessive contact with the police Crime in Hunts Point has declined, but at a slower rate than • Violence at the hands of customers, abusive employers, in the City as a whole traffickers and sometimes police officers According to reports in the Hunts Point Express, Hunts Point • Lack of housing and intensive support services and Longwood are among the most crime‐ridden neighbor‐ • Social isolation59 hoods in New York City, and while there has been a steady decline in crime City‐wide, it has not declined in Hunts Point Services for the sex‐worker population in Hunts Point are and Longwood at the same rate.60 sparse. There are currently two organizations known to pro‐ vide mobile outreach and services to sex workers in Hunts Overall, the Bronx 41st Precinct, which covers Hunts Point and Point several days and one night per week. These services Longwood, has experienced a drastic decline in crime since include condom distribution; education on safer sex, dealing the 1990s. But while crime declined by 67.5% between 1990 with clients, and knowing one’s legal rights; needle exchange and 2006, overall crime in the city declined by 75.7% during program; and connections to other services. A third organiza‐ the same period.61 tion operates a mobile needle exchange program on Southern Boulevard across the Bruckner Expressway, but indicated that this service has been used less due to the increase in ‘quality of life’ arrests.
Neighborhood Profile 49
Crime Complaints in 41st Precinct: 2006 Year to Date Versus 2007 Year to Percentage Change in Crime Complaints: 1990 Versus 2006 for Date; 1990 Year End Versus 2006 Year End 41st Precinct and Citywide Number Number Percent Number Number Percent 41st Precinct NYC Percent 2006 YTD 2007 YTD Change 1990 2006 Change Percent Change Change Murder 10 1 ‐ 90% 44 14 ‐ 68.1% Murder ‐ 68.1% ‐ 73.6%
Rape 15 15 0% 29 17 ‐ 41.3% Rape ‐ 41.3% ‐ 52.2%
Robbery 199 228 14.5% 1095 283 ‐ 74.1% Robbery ‐ 74.1% ‐ 76.5% Felony Assault 283 284 0.3% 549 351 ‐ 36% Felony Assault ‐ 36% ‐ 61.1% Burglary 164 153 ‐ 6.7% 1107 214 ‐ 80.6% Burglary ‐ 80.6% ‐ 81.1%
Grand Larceny 186 192 3.2% 459 240 ‐47.7% Grand Larceny ‐47.7% ‐ 57%
Grand Larceny Auto 136 109 ‐ 19.8% 660 161 ‐ 75.6% Grand Larceny Auto ‐ 75.6% ‐ 89.3% TOTAL 993 982 ‐ 1.11% 3,943 1280 ‐ 67.5% TOTAL ‐67.54% ‐ 75.7% Source: CompStat; New York City Police Department website; NYPD CompStat Unit; Source: CompStat; New York City Police Department website; Report Covering the Week of 10/15/07 – 10/21/07; Volume 14, Number 42. NYPD CompStat Unit; Report Covering the Week of 10/15/07 – 10/21/07; Volume 14, Number 42.
According to the most recent crime statistics prepared by the Public safety in Hunts Point is improving New York City Police Department for the week ending Octo‐ While issues of pubic safety persist, many focus group partici‐ ber 21, 2007, the overall crime rate for the Bronx 41st Precinct pants and interviewees agree that Hunts Point today is a safer in 2007 to date has remained relatively steady in comparison neighborhood than in years past. The 41st Precinct pointed to to last year (with a 1.1% decline in 2007 to date). It should be several examples of increased public safety. Five or six years noted, though, that the murder rate has dropped dramati‐ ago, drag racing was a major concern in the neighborhood, cally, from 10 incidences in 2006 to 1 in 2007 as of October. especially along Randall and Lafayette Avenues. The precinct There is also a decline in the burglary and grand larceny auto worked with the New York City Department of Transporta‐ rates—down 6.7% and 19.8% from 2006.62 tion, among others, to make directional changes to the streets, which seems to have alleviated the problem. Also as anecdotal evidence, the precinct noted that Garrison and Se‐ neca Avenues were especially dangerous areas, and the pre‐ cinct always sent out two or three officers together to patrol
50 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
these blocks. Today however, just one officer patrols the officers who will patrol the streets unarmed, but in uniform. same area. The Precinct is hopeful that the auxiliary officers, by serving as additional eyes and ears for the police force, will help serve as The precinct also pointed to undercover operations to con‐ a deterrent to criminal activities. As of the fall 2006, the Pre‐ front both prostitution and drug activity. In the case of drug cinct had approximately 25 active auxiliary members and was activity, the precinct noted that the undercover work has re‐ in the process of training an additional 30.63 sulted in more arrests and fewer complaints, suggesting that this strategy is effective. Improved policing efforts around The precinct has also initiated the Law Enforcement Explora‐ drug activity have also resulted in getting more guns off the tion Program for young people ages 10 to 21 as a way to streets. Moreover, the precinct noted an increase in the break down barriers between young people and the police. number of quality of life complaints, such as noise complaints, The Explorers program emphasizes attaining higher educa‐ and a decline in complaints about drug activity and prostitu‐ tion, community service and self‐discipline. The program also tion. For example, between September 17 and October 14, encourages members to consider a career in law enforce‐ 2007, the 41st Precinct received 239 quality of life‐related ment.64 Finally, the precinct partners with Bronx Community complaint calls, suggesting that community members are Solutions, an initiative funded by the U.S. Department of Jus‐ starting to focus more on addressing less serious offenses. tice to work with local courts to provide increased sentencing options for non‐violent offenses such as drug possession, The 41st Precinct is active in community outreach efforts prostitution and shoplifting, thereby reducing reliance on The 41st Precinct participates in NYPD‐wide community out‐ short‐term jail sentences, holding offenders accountable, and reach efforts and has initiated several programs of its own. offering them the assistance they need to avoid further of‐ Outreach efforts have included: monthly community council fenses.65 meetings; participation in the annual National Night Out pro‐ gram, a community‐wide cookout and crime and drug preven‐ tion event attended by more than 1,100 community members this summer; an annual tree light ceremony and toy drive, holiday visits to crime victims; and an annual fellowship breakfast with community leaders. In addition, the precinct captain has an ‘open door policy’ with the community.
In order to address concerns over public safety, the 41st Pre‐ cinct has been training volunteers to become auxiliary police
Neighborhood Profile 51
One of the several adult entertainment clubs in Hunts Point.
52 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
3.7 Community Identity & Participation est frequency (see p. 51). When combined with the selec‐ tions for “Community Cohesion,” this general sense of com‐ Hunts Point lacks a strong positive identity, but a strong munity would rank first among answer choices. The answer sense of community is fostered by connections among family choice, “Community Identity,” was selected more often than and friends might be expected, perhaps due to respondents linking it to Neighborhood identity is an intangible aspect of community sense of community in general. development that cannot be underestimated. Innumerable conversations held in the course of this project indicated that Hunts Point’s identity, from the perspective of both commu‐ “In my school, [if you tell someone that you’re] from nity members and outsiders, is associated with negative char‐ Hunts Point, they laugh at you. I really want that to acteristics. In part, this can be attributed to the typical stop.” – Focus Group Participant stereotyping that occurs with high‐poverty, minority neighborhoods. Hunts Point represents an extreme case, however, and its common associations with extreme pollu‐ tion, foul odors from waste treatment plants, prostitution, and drug dealing exacerbate the negative perception. Indeed, a few interviewees suggested that Hunts Point should be re‐ oriented only as a manufacturing area, and not a neighbor‐ hood in which people live at all.
The impact of such a negative identity is felt across the com‐ munity. From school‐aged children who are embarrassed to say where they are from, to jobseekers who are rejected sim‐ ply based on their home address, perception can be a vicious cycle.
At the same time, however, the survey indicates that the neighborhood has a strong sense of community because of connections among family and friends. When asked which characteristics they most liked about Hunts Point, respon‐ dents selected “Near Family & Friends” with the second great‐ Focus group participants.
Neighborhood Profile 53
In addition, it is important to note that “Community Identity” overwhelmingly indicated that they are invested in making and “Community Cohesion” received the least number of re‐ positive change. When asked directly, 74% of respondents sponses as areas of concern. While the latter is consistent stated that they are interested in helping to make change in with other findings, community identity might otherwise be the neighborhood. expected to have ranked higher. In fact, it seems that respon‐ dents focused their answers on the tangible concerns— Community members believe they have the power to effect health, employment, youth programs, pollution, drug dealing, change in Hunts Point substance abuse, etc.—that all contribute to Hunts Point’s Community members not only want to participate in shaping negative identity. Hunts Point’s future, they also believe they have the power to do so. 73% of survey respondents agreed with the statement Community members believe in Hunts Point’s future and that they are able to positively impact change in Hunts Point. want to participate in shaping the neighborhood’s develop‐ In a further question that asked respondents to identify who ment is able to effect change in the neighborhood, residents re‐ A very strong indication that community members believe in ceived the most responses (238), followed by local politicians their neighborhood’s future is that 93% of survey respondents (223), community groups (203), and Community Board and either strongly agreed or agreed that living and working con‐ New York City officials (both 192). This sense of empower‐ ditions in Hunts Point can improve. This optimism for Hunts ment is a tremendous resource upon which community Point’s future is a critical asset for community building, and groups can rely. gives hope that the neighborhood’s identity can be improved over time. At the same time, several focus group participants also articu‐ lated a certain disillusionment with elected officials. One “There are too many broken promises from politi‐ said, “There are too many broken promises from politicians cians for us to believe them anymore. They will start for us to believe them anymore. They will start one project one project but only get half way. All they do is con‐ “We prefer community based organizations because tinue to put more garbage in our neighborhoods.” they have a bigger impact overall. They can take the – Focus Group Participant battle to the frontline, like Washington if need be. I mean you ask for ten things and you only get one,
but at least you get something.” Another indication of community members’ hope for the fu‐ ture of Hunts Point is their feeling of empowerment, and they – Focus Group Participant
54 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
but only get half way. All they do is continue to put more Survey Respondents' Most Pressing Concerns for Hunts Point garbage in our neighborhoods.” Health Conditions 139 As for the impact of community groups, community Employment Opportunities / Training 133 members’ overall feeling was of cautious optimism. One Availability of Youth Programs 131 Pollution 127 focus group participant noted some of the issues facing Substance Abuse / Drug Dealing 113 local organizations: “Community based organizations Prostitution 110 have influence, but they also have problems. It is really Housing Options 104 tough to get people to sign petitions when they are Availability of Social / Health Services 85 Public Safety 79 afraid they are going to get sent back into the slammer Parks, Playgrounds, & Other Recreational Spaces 62 or are too scared to open their door. It’s difficult to get Access to Public Transportation 58 people to come to gatherings and meetings because Quality of Schools 50 they think they have better things to do.” Community Identity 25 Community Cohesion 24 Other 4 Don't Know 25 Survey Respondents' Favorite Characteristics about Hunts Point 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 Access to Public Transportation 178 Near Family & Friends 166 Responses based on “check all that apply” from 425 surveys. Parks, Playgrounds, & Other 97 Recreational Spaces Availability of Social / Health Services 64 Community members’ favorite characteristics about Public Safety 63 Hunts Point are access to transportation and proximity Community Identity 58 to family and friends, while their greatest concerns fo‐ Availability of Youth Programs 53 cus on quality of life and employment issues Quality of Schools 51 When asked to select their favorite characteristics about Housing Options 50 Hunts Point, survey respondents chose access to public Employment Opportunities / Training 44 transportation and being close to family and friends as Community Cohesion 39 the top responses (see discussion above). Conversely, Other 23 respondents selected health conditions, employment, Don't Know 6 availability of youth programs, and pollution most fre‐
0 50 100 150 200 quently as areas of pressing concern. It is important to note that respondents selected a significantly greater Responses based on “check all that apply” from 425 surveys. Neighborhood Profile 55
number of total answers to the community concerns ques‐ Many community groups and local leaders oppose the jail tion— clearly, respondents had more to say about their com‐ project. Environmentalists have raised concerns about toxic munity concerns than likes, focusing on community health, materials on the site, which is a brownfield,66 while others public safety, and employment issues. have advocated for allocating funds to the diverse economic development of the neighborhood. Local groups and resi‐ Community members believe that major upcoming develop‐ dents also point out that Hunts Point is already burdened by a ment projects in Hunts Point will offer mixed results for the number of jails and detention centers—three facilities exist in local population the area—and that another would be excessive. In particular, Hunts Point has received renewed attention from the City and SSB has promoted the development of an eco‐industrial park major businesses due to the availability of large tracts of land, as an alternative use for the site. Public statements by Bronx financing through the Empire and Empowerment Zone desig‐ elected officials have not supported the jail facility. nations, and accessibility for commercial traffic, among other factors. Specifically, the City has sponsored capital improve‐ ment projects that have benefited commerce in Hunts Point, Survey Responses that the Jail Would Benefit but not necessarily the local population. The Fulton Fish Mar‐ the Hunts Point Community (NYC Proposal) ket, for example, cost more than $80 million, while the expan‐ sion of the Hunts Point Wastewater Treatment Plan is esti‐ Strongly agree, mated at more than $750 million. Don't know , 8% 19%
The project that is currently creating the greatest controversy Somew hat in Hunts Point is the future development of the 28‐acre Oak agree, 9% Point waterfront site. The City’s Economic Development Cor‐ Somew hat poration (NYCEDC) and Department of Corrections (DOC) are Strongly disagree, 8% working to acquire the parcel to construct a detention center disagree, 55% as part of the City’s plan to decentralize Rikers Island. The proposal includes 2,040 inmate beds, 600 parking spaces, and a kitchen serving all of the City’s jails. Estimated costs for the Responses based on 425 surveys. facility approximate $375 million, and construction has been proposed for 2009 through 2013. The DOC has stated that Oak Point is the only potential site that can accommodate its needs.
56 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
The project must go through several legal processes, including Bronx Greenway Project promises to significantly benefit resi‐ environmental review and the City’s Uniform Land Use Re‐ dents of Hunts Point and surrounding areas. This project is a view Procedure (ULURP), which mandates community partici‐ community led plan for a bicycle/pedestrian greenway along pation through the Community Board. The community por‐ the South Bronx waterfront, which will provide much needed tion of ULURP is advisory, however, and holds no regulatory open space, waterfront access, and opportunities for mixed‐ authority. Currently, the project is held up by court proceed‐ used economic development. The community‐led project in‐ ings, next scheduled for January 2008, which will decide on cludes NYCEDC as the government sponsor; SSB and The Point the site owners’ contention that the City is employing emi‐ CDC as the community partners; and the landscape architects, nent domain to drop the sale price of the property below Mathews Nielsen. market value.
Survey Responses that an Eco-Industrial Park Would Benefit the Hunts Point Community (SSB Proposal)
Don't know , 12% Strongly disagree, 10% Somew hat Strongly agree, disagree, 3% 55%
Somew hat agree, 20%
Responses based on 425 surveys. As illustrated in the graphs above, the majority of survey respondents believe that the proposed jail would not benefit Hunts Point, whereas a strong majority believe that the proposed eco‐industrial park would.
In contrast to the proposed Oak Point jail project, the South
Neighborhood Profile 57
Endnotes 15 One estimate quoted $850 for a license. 16 Hunts Point Express. 3.1 General Demographics 17 Ibid. 1 2000 U.S. Census. 18 Ibid. 2 Ibid. 19 Hunts Point Vision Plan, City of New York, 2005. 3 Ibid. 20 The City’s one‐stop Workforce1 Career Center system was 4 Ibid. established through funding from the federal Workforce In‐ 5 Ibid. vestment Act (WIA). Centers in each borough assist the unem‐ ployed or other jobseekers with counselors, technological re‐ 3.2 Workforce & Economy sources, and job search workshops, while services to busi‐ 6 State of New York City’s Housing & Neighborhoods 2006, nesses include assistance identifying workers and information The Furman Center for Real Estate & Urban Policy. on tax credits and other resources. The New York City Depart‐ 7 2005 American Community Survey. ment of Small Business Services (NYC SBS) provides overall 8 Furman Center report, citing the 2005 New York City Hous‐ management of the Centers, along with its operators, the ing and Vacancy Survey. New York State Department of Labor and the City University 9 Zip code 10474. of New York. 10 Figures are for zip code 10474, 2000 U.S. Census. The labor 21From March to November 2005, HPEDC partnered with Wild force is defined as employed and unemployed civilians plus Cat on the subcontract. From November 2005 to June 2007, members of the U.S. Armed Forces. Civilians aged 16 and HPEDC was the sole administrator of HPW. older are classified as unemployed if actively looking for a job 22 Defined as jobs that provide some environmental benefit or in the previous four weeks of the Census and available to ac‐ service. cept a job. The national average for labor force participation is 64%. 3.3 Housing 11 Furman Center report, citing data from the New York City 23 Comparison of 2000 Census and 2005 U.S. Census American Department of Education, 2005. Community Survey data. 12 “A Thousand Cuts,” Center for an Urban Future, February 24 State of New York City’s Housing and Neighborhoods 2006., 2007. Armstrong, et al, The Furman Center for Real Estate and Ur‐ 13 These figures for zip code 10474, from the 2005 American ban Policy, 2006. Community Survey. 25 Ibid. 14 For example, Forman Mills recently recruited 150 cashiers 26 2000 U.S. Census. from throughout the South Bronx. 27 New York City Housing and Vacancy Survey, 2005.
58 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
28 Armstrong, et al. The Furman Center, 2006. 40 “A Park Opens on the Bronx Waterfront.” The Daily Plant 29 New York City Housing and Vacancy Survey 2005. Newsletter, New York City Department of Parks and Recrea‐ 30 Ibid. tion, September 10, 2007, Volume XXII, No. 4544. 31 Ibid. 41 “Carving Out Havens and Facing Down the Skeptics.” The 32 Hunts Point Vision Plan. New York City Hunts Point Task New York Times, August 5, 2007. Force, 2004. 42 Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation website; www.boedc.com. 3.4 Recreational Areas 33 Bronx Community Board 2 website: www.bronxcb2.org. 3.5 Public Health 34 Planning for all New Yorkers: Briefing Book of Community‐ 43 Take Care NY Community Health Profile: Hunts Point and Based Plans. Municipal Arts Society, 2004. Mott Haven, Second Edition. New York City Department of 35 Parks Cuts Ribbon on Hunt’s Point Riverside Park; Press Re‐ Health and Mental Hygiene, 2006. lease. New York City Department of Parks & Recreation, No. 44 Community Health Survey 2003. New York City Department 114, Wednesday August 29, 2007. of Health and Mental Hygiene, 2003. 36 South Bronx Greenway: Executive Summary. The City of 45 Ibid. New York and New York City Economic Development Corpora‐ 46 Asthma Facts, Second Edition. New York City Department of tion in Partnership with Sustainable South Bronx and The Health and Mental Hygiene, May 2003. Point CDC; Prepared by Mathews Nielsen Landscape Archi‐ 47 Take Care NY Community Health Profile: Hunts Point and tect, PC, Fall 2006. Mott Haven, Second Edition. New York City Department of 37 Parks & Recreation Breaks Ground On $1 Million In Renova‐ Health and Mental Hygiene, 2006. tions At Manida Park In Hunt’s Point. Press Release, New York 48 Ibid. City Department of Parks & Recreation, No. 83, Monday Sep‐ 49 Ibid. tember 25, 2006. 50 Hunts Point Vision Plan. New York City Hunts Point Task 38 “Mayor Bloomberg Breaks Ground on Barretto Point Park.” Force, 2004. New York City Department of Parks & Recreation Press Re‐ 51 Community Health Survey 2003. New York City Department lease, July 10, 2005, No. 260. of Health and Mental Hygiene, 2003. 39 “Mayor Bloomberg Cuts Ribbon on $7.2 Million Barretto 52 Ibid. Point Park in the South Bronx.” Press Release, Office of the 53 Ibid. Mayor, October 3, 2006. 54 Obesity in the South Bronx: A Look Across Generations. Bronx District Health Office of the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, May 2007.
Neighborhood Profile 59
55 Take Care NY Community Health Profile: Hunts Point and 3.7 Community Identity & Participation Mott Haven, Second Edition. New York City Department of 66 According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, a Health and Mental Hygiene, 2006. brownfield is “a real property, the expansion, redevelopment, 56 Ibid. or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or po‐ 57 Public Health Insurance Participation in the Community Dis‐ tential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or con‐ tricts of New York City. Mayor’s Office of Health Insurance Ac‐ taminant.” cess, 2004. 58 Take Care NY Community Health Profile: Hunts Point and Mott Haven, Second Edition. New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, 2006.
3.6 Public Safety 59 Revolving Door: An Analysis of Street‐Based Prostitution in New York City. Sex Workers Project at the Urban Justice Cen‐ ter, 2003. Behind Closed Doors: An Analysis of Indoor Sec Workers in New York City. Sex Workers Project at the Urban Justice Center, 2005. 60 “Crime Still Troubles Hunts Point.” Hunts Point Express, Fall 2006. 61 CompStat. New York City Police Department website; NYPD CompStat Unit; Report Covering the Week of 10/15/07 – 10/21/07; Volume 14, Number 42. 62 Ibid. 63 “Crime Still Troubles Hunts Point.” Hunts Point Express; Fall 2006. 64 “Cops Reach Out to Young People.” Hunts Point Express; Spring 2007. 65 Center for Court Innovation website: www.courtinnovation.org.
60 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood 4 COMMUNITY VISION & RECOMMENDATIONS Although previous planning efforts in Hunts Point have of‐ focus of service providers is divided by the tension between fered a range of development opportunities for the neighbor‐ residents’ long‐term needs and businesses’ immediate hiring hood, this project is distinguished by its bottom‐up approach. requirements. Finally, in failing to benefit local residents, It relies on the direct voices of community members them‐ Hunts Point’s local economic engine represents a lost oppor‐ selves—rather than on politicians, faith leaders, community tunity for the community. These interconnected themes sug‐ groups, or other representatives—to articulate local needs. gest a range of recommendations towards comprehensive, This chapter presents this community‐based vision for Hunts sustained workforce development in Hunts Point. Point, as well as a series of planning recommendations to‐ wards realizing these goals. Emphasize a resident‐focused, case management approach through a dedicated service provider
4.1 Workforce Development Vision: The benefits of a case management approach for building the employability of low‐income populations have been demon‐ The local workforce in Hunts Point is well‐connected 1 to an effective service delivery system that focuses strated in numerous contexts. This model focuses on ad‐ dressing the comprehensive needs of residents and their long‐ on its comprehensive, long‐term needs and strives term career development, rather than concentrating on the towards stable, living wage jobs. immediate need of filling job openings for businesses. The ra‐ tionale behind case management is that the challenges resi‐ Several significant workforce development themes have dents face—ongoing skill building, housing, healthcare, child‐ emerged from the visioning process. First, given its over‐ care, education, and other needs—are interconnected and go whelming lack of education and employment skills, the Hunts beyond simply finding a job. Thus, only through a compre‐ Point workforce requires special attention and assistance hensive and integrated response will residents be positioned from City agencies and local organizations if positive systemic to succeed. In addition, this model reduces the risk of losing change is to occur in the long‐term. The impact of unemploy‐ clients during the training and placement process by main‐ ment on a community is wide‐ranging, and can include issues taining singular contact, and is based on a proactive, rather such as strained family dynamics, depression, substance than reactive, approach to assistance. abuse, and crime. Second, although Hunts Point residents can access a range of job training and placement services, they Implementation are either not well connected to this assistance or the services • Build support for the case management model among fail to meet the comprehensiveness of their needs. Third, al‐ various local organizations and City agencies though the local workforce requires dedicated assistance, the • Identify an entity to fill case management role. One option
Community Vision & Recommendations 61
is Hunts Point Works (HPW), though expanding its mission plemented by the New York City Human Resources would require support from NYC SBS Agency that utilizes a case management approach for pro‐ • Develop an outreach network that connects to residents viding employment services to public assistance clients and promotes the service with physical and mental health challenges. The program • Create an intake system based on best practices conducts a comprehensive assessment of clients and ad‐ • Develop an assessment tool for identifying resident assets dresses vocational, post‐employment, and health needs. and skill gaps See http://www.nyc.gov/html/hra/html/ customized_assistance/WeCARE.shtml. Implementing Organizations • Hunts Point Works, NYC SBS, local organizations, Federa‐ “They have computers for you to look at but it feels tion Employment and Guidance Services (FEGS) like you’re bothering them if you ask about work op‐ Potential Funding Sources portunities.” – Focus Group Participant • NYC SBS Institutionalize a workforce outreach and referral network Best Practices through a coordinated approach that better connects resi‐ • Project QUEST, Inc. is a job training program based in San dents to service agencies Antonio, Texas. Through this program, participants re‐ ceive support from case managers on an ongoing basis No single workforce development entity can be successful in towards the goal of long‐term employment. The program any neighborhood. Rather, a network of organizations oper‐ utilizes an assessment tool for participants, provides tech‐ ating in a complementary manner is necessary for systemic nical training driven by employers, counsels in life skills change to occur. The continuum of care approach often util‐ and personal growth, and places participants in employ‐ ized with the homeless and persons with mental disabilities, ment opportunities in healthcare / medical; information in which clients receive coordinated assistance with housing technology / business services; and installation, mainte‐ and supportive services, offers a good model for a workforce nance, and repair. Simultaneously, the program engages referral network. In Hunts Point, a range of City agencies and local businesses to ensure its participants will be strong local organizations offer training and placement services, but matches for available positions. See www.questsa.com. these entities have not fully connected to one another in a formalized system that leverages their individual services to‐ • The WeCARE program (Wellness, Comprehensive Assess‐ wards the goal of comprehensive support to residents. While ment, Rehabilitation, and Employment) is a program im‐ HPW and Bronx Workforce1, as City agencies, have tremen‐
62 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
dous access to employers and job opportunities, they lack Best Practices close connections to residents and the capacity to provide • Harborquest Staffing Services in Chicago is a nonprofit technical skills training. Per its mandate, HPW focused its staffing agency that offers services to individuals in need training opportunities on building general job skills, such as by collaborating with a range of government agencies and resume preparation and interviewing, rather than on hard community groups. Clients receive initial assessment and skills. On the other hand, local organizations have strong con‐ attend a series of job preparedness and search workshops nections to their constituencies, and thus the ability to locate delivered by a partner agency. They are then placed in a and maintain contact with residents. These organizations short‐term position in the light manufacturing, hospitality, have built trust with the community, and residents often turn janitorial, or service industry. Following this period, cli‐ to them in times of need. In addition, local organizations of‐ ents return to Harborquest and receive ongoing assistance fer training opportunities in technical skills, which residents towards permanent employment. can take advantage of when targeting a specific industry. See www.harborquest.com.
Implementation • The Chicago Jobs Council (CJC) is a city‐wide coalition of • Complete an inventory of all service providers available to community‐based groups that works towards ensuring Hunts Point residents, including City agencies, local organi‐ access to employment and career advancement opportu‐ zations, high schools, churches and other faith‐based or‐ nities for residents living in poverty. Though not a direct ganizations service provider, this group of more than 100 organiza‐ • Build consensus among local organizations and City agen‐ tions offers a model for collaboration, policy promotion, cies on procedures for referring clients, including point and capacity building. See www.cjc.net. persons at relevant entities and required forms • Develop feedback mechanisms from clients to monitor and measure effectiveness
Implementing Organizations • Local organizations, Hunts Point Works, Bronx Workfor‐ ce1, community colleges, local public high schools
Potential Funding Sources • Additional funding should not be required to complete this activity
Community Vision & Recommendations 63
site qualifications. Instead, agencies and organizations can focus on building partnerships with major employers towards creating long‐term opportunities into which typical Hunts Point workers can grow. For example, banks such as HSBC, J.P. Morgan Chase, and Bank of America offer teller positions, while UPS, FedEx, and DHL offer positions as drivers.2 Con Edison, Verizon, Staples, and Forman Mills also have large presences in the South Bronx offering customer service repre‐ sentative positions that are bilingual, a skill set possessed by many Hunts Point residents.
“In a year and a half, I moved up three positions and a $1.25. Then some other guy with a degree came in and started making $6 more than me right off the bat. I left. I just couldn’t take that kind of treatment.” Aerial view of the Hunts Point Food Distribution Center. Photo courtesy of NYCEDC. – Focus Group Participant Focus placement efforts involving major local businesses on long‐term opportunities Implementation As one of the few remaining industrial and manufacturing ar‐ • Compile studies of Hunts Point workforce to determine eas in New York City, and with its Industrial Business, Empire, baseline skill sets and Empowerment Zone designations, Hunts Point offers tre‐ • Utilize baseline information to promote additional strat‐ mendous opportunities for business development and placing egy to employers that focuses on creating long‐term op‐ residents in the local economy. With these opportunities, portunities employment agencies understandably focus their efforts on • Prepare residents for relevant opportunities through skill filling the immediate hiring needs of businesses. Because lo‐ building and apprenticeship programs cal residents often lack the skills required for these positions, however, a disconnect in the system results. Jobs such as Implementing Organizations truck drivers, machine operators, packers, and other manual • NYC agencies, local organizations, major employers, Office laborers are out of reach for most residents, who lack requi‐ of the Bronx Borough President
64 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
Potential Funding Sources • The Instituto del Progreso Latino (Institute for Latino Pro‐ • Additional funding should not be required to complete gress) is a local organization in the Pilsen neighborhood of this activity Chicago that prepares low‐skilled residents for careers in the health and manufacturing industries, both high growth Best Practices sectors. Typically, participants would not possess skills to • The Metropolitan College in Louisville, Kentucky was access entry‐level jobs in these areas, let alone long‐term founded through a diverse public‐private partnership to employment opportunities. See www.idpl.org. work with the United Parcel Service (UPS) to meet its need for local trained workers. Participants receive col‐ Connect residents to apprenticeship and licensing programs lege tuition support and healthcare benefits in exchange for working part‐time during the overnight shift at UPS. A successful workforce development strategy requires a Program costs are divided amongst the partner organiza‐ strong supply‐side approach, which means building workers’ tions and the city, county, and state. Approximately 2,200 technical skills through a career pathway program that in‐ students are now enrolled, and UPS’ worker retention cludes education, training, and experiential learning. In par‐ rate for the overnight shift has risen to 90%. Local hospi‐ ticular, Hunts Point residents need opportunities to build their tals have also now joined the program. Although many of resumes and obtain requisite trade licenses that are transfer‐ these jobs can be short‐term, the skills gained by partici‐ rable across employers, thereby truly building the capacity of pants lead to long‐term employment. each individual. Apprenticeship programs with general and See www.metro‐college.com. specialized contractors, food distributors, automobile me‐ chanics, legal firms, and other companies provide critical on‐ the‐job training and can lead to permanent employment posi‐ “If people were employed in their own neighborhood, tions. Such programs can result from partnerships with high schools and local businesses, and can target both youth and and proud of their neighborhood, do you think they adults. Meanwhile, opportunities for residents to enter pro‐ would be selling themselves and drugs on the street? grams leading to professional licensing results in the qualifica‐ Of course, they wouldn’t. They said the Bronx was tions that are prerequisite to many jobs. Licensing options burning, but now all we have left is the embers.” can be coupled with training programs to provide comprehen‐ – Focus Group Participant sive assistance to jobseekers. In addition, Alternative Staffing Organizations (ASOs) offer a model for social purpose, tempo‐ rary employment positions that provide resume building ex‐ periences.
Community Vision & Recommendations 65
Implementation customized training, orientation, and employee manuals. • Inventory existing apprenticeships by provider, including It focuses on customer service in balancing the needs of those offered by the City and local organizations clients with employers, and has placed more than 1,200 • Build support for apprenticeship opportunities with City candidates who have worked more than 300,000 hours agencies for more than 300 employers. • Target licensing credentials geared towards employment See www.firstsourcestaffing.com. opportunities at major employers • Explore the creation of an “employability certificate” that • The New York City Department of Youth and Community provides a standard, recognized credential Development’s Summer Youth Employment Program pro‐ • Consider a partnership with an Alternative Staffing Organi‐ vides training and summer apprenticeship opportunities zation for youth ages 14 to 21 years old in community service and small businesses. The program is funded by Tempo‐ Implementing Organizations rary Aid to Needy Families (TANF), the Workforce Invest‐ • Local organizations, local community colleges, trade asso‐ ment Act, and the Public Assistance/Human Resources ciations, employers Administration. See www.nyc.gov/html/dycd/html/ services‐employment‐syep.html. Potential Funding Sources • NYC Department of Small Business Services training grants • The Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) implements the Kentucky Career Pathways initia‐ Best Practices tive to offer job opportunities and build career ladders • ReCycle North in Burlington, Vermont is a nonprofit or‐ through sequential skill building that is informed by em‐ ganization that provides apprenticeship opportunities in ployers. Areas of employment include manufacturing, customer service and retail management, major appliance construction, and transportation. Participants receive repairs, and office administration in relation to its mission credit at colleges towards certificates and various degrees, of reuse. See www.recyclenorth.org. and also benefit from comprehensive case management services. In addition the KCTCS issues an employability • First Source Staffing, which is owned by the Fifth Avenue certificate as a portable, standardized credential for work‐ Committee in Brooklyn, is New York City’s only social pur‐ ers. See www.kctcs.edu/workforcenetwork. pose staffing company providing temporary placement, direct placement, and convertible temp‐to‐permanent arrangements. The company screens clients and provides
66 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
cal to fostering job production and retention. While much of “The problem with these jobs is that there is no the attention focuses on the waterfront and Food Distribution chance for advancement. There is no way to move Center, the neighborhood‐scale economy that exists in the up. “ – Focus Group Participant bodegas and small stores in the residential core are critical to the residential population. These businesses are not only economic engines, but also function as civic spaces for the Support small and informal business development to encour‐ community. Local organizations could explore establishing a age self‐employment and supplementary income sources business association or business improvement district (BID) in association with the Chamber of Commerce. Workers who are struggling financially often turn to secon‐ dary sources of income generation, such as informal, home‐ Implementation based enterprises. Whether selling food or providing tailor‐ • Conduct outreach and a survey to determine nature and ing, childcare, or nursing services, this economic activity can extent of informal business activity in the community be leveraged to the benefit of the neighborhood. In Hunts • Target residents providing childcare services and explore Point, the level of informal economic activity has not been opportunities for traditional employment in childcare and determined, though anecdotal evidence suggests that food nursing positions vendors have operated in different areas near the Food Distri‐ • Identify service providers that could work with entrepre‐ bution Center. The formalization of small‐scale food busi‐ neurs nesses, for example, could complement and capitalize on traf‐ • Educate entrepreneurs on low‐interest loans and tax cred‐ fic from the Food Distribution Center. Community Board 2, its that may be available towards formalizing their work among other groups, has promoted the development of • Determine interest among existing business owners in small‐scale retail businesses to balance the major manufac‐ forming an association or BID turing and wholesale activity in Hunts Point. In addition, as • Explore the feasibility of establishing a business incubator noted in the Profile chapter, a large number of survey respon‐ facility in Hunts Point dents replied that they have skills in childcare, which is an area typical of informal activity that can be supported and Implementing Organizations translated into traditional employment. • Small business owners, Chamber of Commerce, local or‐ ganizations Although commercial corridor revitalization is beyond the scope of this project, business development on Hunts Point Avenue and other major streets in the residential core is criti‐
Community Vision & Recommendations 67
Potential Funding Sources Best Practices • U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Job Oppor‐ • Nuestras Raíces in Holyoke, Massachusetts is a commu‐ tunities for Low‐Income Individuals (JOLI), Empire and Em‐ nity‐based organization that promotes environmental jus‐ powerment Zone employee tax credits, low interest loans, tice and supports local business development of immi‐ and other financing instruments; NYC SBS Streetscape Pro‐ grant farmers and workers. Through a farmers market, gram; self‐taxation through a Business Improvement Dis‐ bakery, and the Centro Agricola Community Agricultural trict Center, the organization provides resources to small busi‐ nesses, assists workers with the transition from commu‐ nity gardening to formal commercial farming, and also promotes healthy living for the community. See www.nuestras‐raices.org.
Small businesses in Hunts Point.
68 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
4.2 Housing Vision: Implementation Hunts Point residents enjoy a broad range of afford‐ • Retain entity (planning firm, Enterprise Foundation, able, quality housing opportunities, including both graduate program) to create and complete survey in ac‐ cessible format rental and homeownership. Implementing Organizations Residents identified the lack of quality affordable housing as a • SSB, NYC Department of Planning significant problem for the community, and data for the neighborhood confirms the validity of this perception. Rates Potential Funding Sources of overcrowding, housing code violations, homeownership • Foundations, banks, corporations with operations in Hunts and vacancy suggest a community in which housing options Point are poor and limited. The community does support the devel‐ opment of additional affordable housing, an increasingly un‐ Best Practices common aspiration for neighborhoods in New York City, and • A number of nonprofit organizations in New York City the availability of sites suitable for development, after envi‐ have completed similar processes. With the assistance of ronmental remediation, offers some hope for future expan‐ the Enterprise Foundation, and with funding from Freddie sion. That said, most housing in Hunts Point occupies the Mac, Asian Americans for Equality completed a compre‐ north‐central high ground of the peninsula, and the appropri‐ hensive land use survey in the Chinatown neighborhood ate growth of the housing stock requires careful thought. of Manhattan following September 11th, 2001. The survey formed the basis for a number of policy recommendations Complete a comprehensive land use and building condition and advocacy efforts. See www.aafe.org. survey of the neighborhood Remediate existing brownfields in order to create sites safe There are many opportunities to improve the existing housing for affordable housing development stock in the community and to develop new housing projects, particularly on vacant or underutilized land after rezoning and As noted above, remediation and redevelopment of existing environmental remediation. A comprehensive examination of brownfields constitutes a significant resource for the creation the neighborhood would allow residents, city agencies and of affordable housing in Hunts Point, in addition to removing other stakeholders to explore the best manner in which to environmental toxins from the community. SSB, The Point expand the residential core of Hunts Point. CDC, and Youth Ministries for Peace and Justice have already initiated efforts to identify appropriate sites.
Community Vision & Recommendations 69
Implementation • Utilize land use survey to identify feasible development sites • Focus on key sites with greatest overall impact on neighborhood • Focus on City‐owned sites where the City might make remediation funds available • Identify affordable housing developers with interest and capacity to develop sites • Examine and pursue rezoning if necessary
Implementing Organizations • Nonprofit affordable housing developers
Potential Funding Sources • New York State Brownfields Cleanup Program, New York Metro Brownfield Redevelopment Fund, New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development, Mixed‐use development at Hunts Point Avenue and Gilbert Place. New York City Economic Development Corporation Expand affordable homeownership opportunities Best Practices Hunts Point has one of the City’s lowest homeownership rates • Ridgewood Bushwick Senior Citizens Council developed a and a housing stock with few single‐family homes. As a con‐ 6.7 acre site in the Bushwick neighborhood of Brooklyn, sequence, prospective homeowners, including moderate‐ or the former Rheingold brewery, into a mixed‐used afford‐ middle‐ income community residents, have little choice but to able rental and homeownership project. The organization move to other neighborhoods. The community would benefit received funding from New York City for environmental from a greater mix of incomes and the stability afforded by remediation and funding from the city and state for hous‐ higher percentages of homeownership. ing and facilities development. See www.rbscc.org. Implementation • Identify sites, preferably City‐owned • Examine and pursue rezoning, if necessary
70 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
• Identify development entities or support issuance of a City Implementing Organizations request for proposals (RFP) • NYC Department of Buildings, local City Council member, SSB, Mothers on the Move Implementing Organizations • Nonprofit housing development organizations, reputable Potential Funding Sources Bronx‐based developers with experience in green building • Foundations, banks, corporations with operations in Hunts Point Potential Funding Sources • Department of Housing Preservation and Development, Develop permanent financing mechanisms for affordable Housing Finance Agency, Division of Housing and Commu‐ housing nity Renewal Many municipalities and communities across the country have developed housing trust funds to create affordable “I want a neighborhood where the domain is occu‐ housing, particularly where gentrification or industry have pied by the actual owners—people who take pride in negatively impacted low‐ and moderate‐ income neighbor‐ their own community.” – Focus Group Participant hoods. Permanent revenue sources are often impact fees connected to the project; for example, a transfer tax on high‐ end real estate transactions. The creation of a pool of grants Increase building inspections and code enforcement to en‐ and below‐market loans would spur the development of af‐ sure that building owners are code compliant, and increase fordable housing in Hunts Point and allow landlords to reha‐ funding for tenant organizers bilitate existing buildings. In particular, the community can conduct an analysis of the feasibility of creating a housing Increased enforcement activities could help reduce the trust fund from a permanent revenue stream connected to neighborhood’s high incidence of housing code violations and the Food Distribution Center, such as a toll on truck traffic. improve the quality of life for renters. Organized tenants could more effectively advocate for their rights. Implementation • Secure seed funding for advocacy and legal costs Implementation • Research possible funding streams • Secure funding for community organizers • Initiate campaign effort • Draft and implement plan for increased inspections and enforcement
Community Vision & Recommendations 71
Implementing Organizations • City agencies, local City Council member, LISC/Enterprise, SSB, community‐based organizations
Potential Funding Sources • Foundations, banks, corporations with operations in Hunts Point
“I want REALLY affordable apartments where the rent is based on your income. A fair price for an apart‐ ment is a week’s salary. Really that’s all you can af‐ ford if you have a family to feed.” – Focus Group Participant
Develop supportive housing for individuals with special needs who are re‐entering the workforce Rental housing in Hunts Point. Housing with on‐site supportive services and case manage‐ ment would assist Hunts Points residents with histories of Implementing Organizations substance abuse and mental illness to remain housed and em‐ • Nonprofit housing development organizations ployed. Potential Funding Sources Implementation • NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Develop‐ • Identify sites, preferably City‐owned ment, Corporation for Supportive Housing, NYC Depart‐ • Examine and pursue rezoning, if necessary ment of Homeless Services, NY State Division of Housing • Identify development entities or support issuance of a City and Community Renewal request for proposals
72 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
4.3 Recreational Areas Vision: tions, such as Rocking the Boat, a boatbuilding and on‐water Hunts Point is a community with safe, clean, and ac‐ education program, are currently utilizing the parks for their cessible parks and recreational spaces that are en‐ programs. joyed by all community members. Improving awareness and usage of the two major parks would go a long way to creating parks that are vibrant with activity The availability of parks and recreational spaces in Hunts and would in turn deter potential criminal or untoward activ‐ Point has increased dramatically in the past year, namely with ity. If additional efforts are necessary, the 41st Precinct may the opening of Barretto Point and Hunts Point Riverside Parks. want to consider increasing police patrol of the parks. Even with these additions and the renovation of Manida Park and the Julio Carballo Ball Fields, however, Hunts Point con‐ Finally, community members may want to consider approach‐ tinues to have a limited amount of green space for its com‐ ing organizations such as the City Parks Foundation, Partner‐ munity members, particularly within the neighborhood’s resi‐ ships for Parks, Greenthumbs, and the Department of Parks dential core. The visioning project has also indicated that and Recreation, to create ongoing programs such as park community members have yet to utilize the new parks on a beautification, community gardening, environmental educa‐ regular basis, because of either lack of awareness or their dis‐ tion, arts, recreational activities, and programs for seniors. tance from people’s homes. Large‐scale Community Event Build awareness and encourage use of Barretto Point and Implementation Hunts Point Riverside Parks • Identify a lead entity • Convene community organizations, schools, churches, Some community members participating in the project sug‐ and residents to determine date and type of event gested that Barretto Point and Hunts Point Riverside Parks • Conduct outreach to community members have not been put to optimal use because many people did • Plan and host event not know about them. While individual organizations or schools may have hosted events at the parks, a larger entity Implementing Organizations such as Community Board 2 or the Office of the Borough • Community Board 2, Office of the Borough President, President may want to consider hosting a community‐wide community members and organizations, Department of celebration at both parks on the same day to inform commu‐ Parks and Recreation nity members of the new parks and encourage members to use them. It should be noted that some community organiza‐
Community Vision & Recommendations 73
Potential Funding Sources Potential Funding Sources • Community Board 2, Office of the Borough President, De‐ • City Parks Foundation, Partnerships for Parks, Green‐ partment of Parks and Recreation thumbs, Department of Parks and Recreation, private foundations Increased Police Presence Implementation • Community members and organizations work with Com‐ munity Board 2 to advocate at City Hall for increased funding for the 41st Precinct to increase and/or reallocate police presence to Barretto Point and Hunts Point River‐ side Parks
Implementing Organizations • Community Board 2, New York City Mayor’s Office, New York City Police Department, 41st Precinct, Department of Parks and Recreation, community members
Potential Funding Sources • New York City budget
Increased Ongoing Programming Implementation • Community members and organizations work with enti‐ ties such as City Parks Foundation, Partnerships for Parks, Boating from Hunts Point Riverside Park. Greenthumbs, or Department of Parks and Recreation to determine programming
Implementing Organizations • Community members and organizations, City Parks Foun‐ dation, Greenthumbs, Department of Parks and Recrea‐ tion
74 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
Improve public transportation to Barretto Point Park Implementation • Continue initiatives such as HP CAT that include Barretto During the visioning process, many community members ex‐ Point Park in its route pressed concern about accessing the new parks, especially • Inform and encourage residents to use the HP CAT Barretto Point Park because it is a far walk from their homes • Work with advocacy organizations such as the Straphang‐ and is not currently serviced by public transportation. The ers Campaign or Transportation Alternatives to lobby MTA Bronx Initiative for Energy and the Environment (BIEE) plans and DOT to extend Bx6 service route to initiate the Hunts Point Clean Air Transportation (HP CAT) in winter 2008, which will provide free, clean air shuttle ser‐ Implementing Organizations vice to Food Distribution Center workers between the 2, 5, • Bronx Borough President’s Office, BOEDC, community and 6 train stations and the portions of the peninsula not cur‐ members and organizations, Straphangers Campaign, rently served by the Bx6 bus. The shuttle bus will include a Transportation Alternatives, MTA, and DOT stop at Barretto Point Park and will initially run from 6:00 am to 9:30 am and 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm, to accommodate work‐ Potential Funding Sources ers’ schedules. Unfortunately, the shuttle will not serve the • Funding sources for HP CAT include New York Power Au‐ general population, and so will not address the transportation thority, New York State Energy Research Development needs of residents. This program is currently funded for three Authority, Clean Air Communities, and New York Empow‐ years, and additional funds will be required to extend it be‐ erment Zone yond the initial phase and/or to a broad ridership. • Potential funding sources for the extension of Bx6 route include MTA, DOT, and PlaNYC The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) have in the past ex‐ plored the possibility of expanding the Bx6 route, but have yet to make any changes to the route. PlaNYC, the City gov‐ ernment’s effort to plan for a more sustainable city by the year 2030, may provide an opportunity to allocate funds for improving public transportation in the neighborhood.
Improved access will also increase the overall community presence in the parks, which may in turn improve public safety in these areas.
Community Vision & Recommendations 75
Create a neighborhood parks clean‐up program Implementation • Continue GWS program activities in neighborhood parks Some community members expressed concern that while • Build partnership among local organizations and City Year these new parks are clean and beautiful now, they may soon to include park beautification and maintenance as an on‐ fall into disrepair. Two graduates of SSB’s Bronx Environ‐ going service activity, and include neighborhood parks in mental Stewardship Training (B.E.S.T.) program have recently volunteer service day program started working in neighborhood parks on clean‐up, repair, • Partner with organizations to initiate beautification and and landscaping. These graduates, known as Greenway Stew‐ maintenance efforts staffed by neighborhood volunteers ards (GWS), provide maintenance on the parks and tree net‐ work. B.E.S.T. is a 10‐week program that prepares partici‐ Implementing Organizations pants for ‘green collar’ employment by training them in envi‐ • Community members, SSB, City Year, New Yorkers for ronment, ecology, and life skills. In addition, SSB has worked Parks, Partnerships for Parks, Greenthumbs, Foundations in park maintenance with Bronx Community Solutions, an ini‐ for Parks, Department of Parks and Recreation tiative funded by the U.S. Department of Justice that provides the local court system with alternative sentencing options for non‐violent offenses.
Local organizations that are already working in the parks may want to consider partnering with an organization such as City Year, which already has a presence in the Hunts Point com‐ munity. City Year is an AmeriCorps program that promotes community service, civic participation, and leadership skills among young adults.
Community members may also want to consider partnering with organizations such as New Yorkers for Parks, Partner‐ ships for Parks, Greenthumbs, or Foundation for Parks, as well as the Department of Parks and Recreation, to initiate a neighborhood parks beautification and maintenance program that enlists a corps of local volunteers. Hunts Point Playground, Faile Street.
76 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
Potential Funding Sources Implementation • Incorporate park beautification and maintenance into ex‐ • Convene a meeting of interested community members isting programs of organizations listed above, Partnerships and relevant community entities, including schools, to for Parks Capacity Fund, Department of Parks and Recrea‐ comprise a core working group tion • Work with local public official and Department of Parks and Recreation to site and fund potential playground Create additional playgrounds in the residential corridor • Work with organizations such as KaBOOM! to explore ways to initiate a community‐driven campaign to build a While there is no doubt that Barretto Point and Hunts Point neighborhood playground Riverside Parks are tremendous new assets for the neighbor‐ hood, many community members may continue to feel that Implementing Organizations both parks—Barretto Point, in particular—are simply too far • Community members and organizations, schools, Hunts for everyday use. The completed renovation of the Julio Car‐ Point Alliance for Children, Department of Parks and Rec‐ ballo Ball Fields and Manida Park is thus anticipated to be a reation, local public official, KaBOOM! much‐used resource because of its location in the heart of the community. Moreover, increased outdoor activity space for Potential Funding Sources children near their homes and schools would help improve • Department of Parks and Recreation, office of local public their physical health as well as provide recreational options official, KaBOOM!, private foundations during and after school.
Community members may want to consider working with relevant entities such as schools, the Hunts Point Alliance for Children, and other community organizations to advocate for the creation of additional neighborhood playgrounds as part of the Department of Parks and Recreation’s overall plan to improve and increase parks in the Bronx. This community coalition may also want to enlist the support of a local public official to join the campaign for a neighborhood playground. In addition, the coalition may want to work with an organiza‐ tion such as KaBOOM!, a national organization that supports communities in building neighborhood play spaces. Manida Park/Carballo Ball Fields under renovation. Community Vision & Recommendations 77
Hunts Point Recreation Center.
78 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
4.4 Community Health Vision: and other elected officials Hunts Point community members enjoy a neighbor‐ hood no longer plagued by a myriad of public health Implementing Organizations • Community organizations, SSB, Community Board 2 concerns, with reduced commercial pollution, fewer noxious uses, and access to healthy food. Potential Funding Sources • City agencies, foundations Of the neighborhood’s problems, Hunts Point residents ex‐ press more concern over community health than any other single issue. This is not surprising, given the ubiquity of trucks on nearly every street in the neighborhood, the high rates of asthma and other environmental illnesses, and the proximity of industrial and residential uses.
Work with the Department of Transportation, community leaders, business owners, and trucking companies to estab‐ lish fixed commercial routes at the perimeter of the Hunts Point peninsula
The direct correlation between rates of asthma and diesel ex‐ haust argues forcefully for the relocation of all trucking routes to perimeter roads and for the enforcement of anti‐idling statutes.
Implementation • Organize local organizations to continue and expand advo‐ cacy efforts to realize recommendations of the Hunts Trucks at the Hunts Point Food Distribution Center. Point Vision Plan and other community efforts relating to transportation routes • Develop advocacy material • Present recommendations to City Council representatives
Community Vision & Recommendations 79
Develop school‐based and after‐school educational pro‐ to conditions and attitudes in the neighborhood so that pro‐ grams on diabetes, nutrition, asthma, substance abuse, and gram usage returns to previous levels. obesity Implementation The Hunts Point community can focus on the health needs of • Identify organizations that presently or could provide rele‐ its children by linking programs directly to educational efforts vant programming in Hunts Point to address particular issues, such as structured after‐school • Begin to identify program parameters, budget needs and recreational programs for children and youth in an effort to possible funding sources combat obesity. While education is an important component of public health, programs that relate to and reinforce out‐ Implementing Organizations reach and teaching are also critical to success. • Department of Health, SSB, Urban Health Plan
Implementation Potential Funding Sources • Identify organizations that currently provide or could de‐ • Corporations with operations in Hunts Point, foundations velop relevant programming in Hunts Point • Begin to identify program parameters, budget needs, and possible funding sources
Implementing Organizations • Department of Health, SSB, Urban Health Plan
Potential Funding Sources • Corporations with operations in Hunts Point, foundations
Design outreach and educational programs on asthma, sub‐ stance abuse, and adult‐onset diabetes for places of wor‐ ship, beauty parlors, and other gathering places
The Hunts Point community can similarly initiate projects that link outreach to specific programs and solutions, for example developing improved needle exchange programs that respond Health clinic on Hunts Point Avenue. 80 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
Develop plan to strengthen local provision of primary and the for‐profit entity provides funds to the community to help specialized care in the diseases endemic to the neighbor‐ mitigate the negative impacts of its operations. hood, and work to expand services and outreach for existing providers Implementation • Secure funding for advocacy and legal costs In dealing with the community’s very real health crises, Hunts • Research possible funding streams Point residents are best served by clinics in the neighborhood • Initiate campaign effort that offer affordable, accessible services. Implementing Organizations Implementation • SSB and other community‐based organizations • Identify existing clinics in Hunts Point or adjacent neighborhoods Potential Funding Sources • Identify healthcare advocacy nonprofit organization or • Corporations with operations in Hunts Point consultant with relevant experience to assess current ser‐ vices and develop a community‐generated plan to en‐ Best Practices hance local healthcare services • Concerned Citizens of Norco (CNN), a nonprofit organiza‐ tion in the Diamond community, a low‐income neighbor‐ Implementing Organizations hood in Norco, Louisiana, negotiated a Good Neighbor • Department of Health, Urban Health Plan and other exist‐ Agreement with Shell Oil Company to redress some of the ing providers community’s health issues arising from the environmental degradation of the area. CCN worked with the Louisiana Potential Funding Sources Bucket Brigade, a nonprofit support organization, and • Corporations with operations in Hunts Point, foundations other community and national nonprofit organizations to design and implement an advocacy campaign that high‐ Explore the creation of a capital resource to address health‐ lighted the community’s significant environmental health‐ care issues funded by the industries and companies that di‐ care issues, resulting in a $3 million payment from Shell. rectly contribute to the crises Although this payment was used to relocate homes, if some community leaders had their way, it would have A number of communities have negotiated Good Neighbor seeded a larger legislative effort to secure an ongoing Agreements (GNA) or Community Benefits Agreements (CBA) source of funding from the refinery’s profits. See with corporations, industries, or developers through which www.neighborhoodlink.com/norco/ccnorco.
Community Vision & Recommendations 81
Explore opening the Hunts Point Food Distribution Center to retail customers so that the local population can benefit from the healthy produce
Local residents would greatly benefit, both in health and eco‐ nomic opportunities, by having access to fresh food at the Hunts Point Food Markets. In fact, the Community Board 2 Draft 197‐a Plan calls for a River Market retail project, a 40,000 square foot retail facility on an unused site near the Food Market and Riverside Park. Such a facility would provide healthy food to residents and could be an economic boon to small‐scale food operators. According to an interviewee, however, businesses in the Food Distribution Center do not want to invest in the equipment and small order quantities that come with selling retail. Another option is to channel produce through one operator; currently, there is a potential rezoning of the area around the Food Distribution Center that would allow for a good‐sized supermarket. The Hunts Point Food Distribution Center. Photo courtesy of NYCEDC. Implementation • Liaise with Community Board and NYC Department of City Planning members to determine feasibility of rezoning Implementing Organizations • Conduct outreach to community members and Food Dis‐ • Hunts Point Food Market businesses, designated retail tribution Center workers to determine demand for a retail operators, Community Board 2, NYC Department of City operator Planning • Complete a basic market study for locating a healthy foods operator, utilizing modeling techniques targeted to Potential Funding Sources low‐income urban neighborhoods • Foundations focused on community health
82 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
4.5 Public Safety Vision: program that does not compromise volunteer safety. Hunts Point is a neighborhood in which all commu‐ nity members feel safe. Implementation • Form working group of committed stakeholders, including
community members, representatives from Community While community members agree that the Hunts Point com‐ Board 2, community and tenant organizations, schools, munity is safer today than in years past, they continue to be businesses, and the police precinct to discuss an initial list concerned about feeling safe in their neighborhood and the of safety issues to address prevalence of drugs and prostitution. Incremental steps can • Conduct preliminary neighborhood survey to determine be taken to address these concerns, focusing on building location and type of services/program and recruit volun‐ awareness about public safety and empowering residents to teers (sample forms available at www.oag.state.ny.us) take the initiative in responding to issues. • Create partnerships with relevant neighborhood entities
not already part of the core working group – police pre‐ Create a Neighborhood Watch Program cinct, religious institutions, schools, businesses, and com‐
munity organizations As indicated in the survey, community members prioritized • Apply for funding the formation of a Neighborhood Watch Program—a citizen’s • Convene a community‐wide, start‐up meeting to establish group dedicated to crime and vandalism prevention—as an priorities and goals, develop an action plan, and deter‐ action that would make them feel safer in the community. mine Neighborhood Watch Program leadership Entities such as Enterprise Community Partners and the New • Facilitate training in crime prevention techniques York State Attorney General’s Office provide detailed infor‐ • Develop Neighborhood Watch policies and procedures mation on their websites regarding the formation of a pro‐ • Work with local precinct to set patrol or other activity gram, patrols and strategies for implementation, and poten‐ schedule tial funding sources. • Convene regular community meetings
Forming such an entity was recently raised at the police pre‐ Implementing Organizations cinct’s monthly community council meeting. At the time, the • Community members, community and tenant organiza‐ City apparently expressed concern that resident volunteers tions, schools, businesses, 41st Precinct, Community may become too involved and jeopardize their own safety. A Board 2 Neighborhood Watch Program, however, may be worth pur‐ suing if community members, organizations, and the 41st Pre‐ cinct can work together to design and implement an effective Community Vision & Recommendations 83
Potential Funding Sources that the police were not responsive to criminal or suspicious • U.S. Department of Justice grants, U.S. Department of activity. Health and Human Services, Do Right Foundation, Fund for the City of New York The 41st Precinct is already taking steps to encourage interac‐ tion with community members, namely through the monthly Best Practices community meetings, auxiliary patrol, and Law Enforcement • The NorthEast Bronx Association, Inc., is a Neighborhood Exploration Program, as well as other outreach activities Watch Program formed in 2000 and awarded a 2006 At‐ throughout the year. Police consultation and participation in torney General’s Neighborhood Watch Award of Excel‐ a potential Neighborhood Watch Program would further en‐ lence. Its activities include a nightly civilian mobile patrol courage positive interaction between community members and block watchers program that is fully administered by and officers. In addition, the local precinct may consider par‐ neighborhood volunteers. The mobile patrol operates in ticipating in community meetings hosted by other local insti‐ the late night/early morning (11pm to 2am) in conjunction tutions, such as Community Board 2, community organiza‐ with the 49th and 47th police precincts and the Metropoli‐ tions, churches, schools, and businesses, in addition to host‐ tan Transportation Authority Police. New technology is ing the community meetings at the precinct. Meetings hosted enabling the volunteers to coordinate with the police to by other entities may draw more and different sectors of the more effectively respond to an incident or suspicious ac‐ community to engage in dialogue with members of the police tivity, and area crime has decreased as a result. See precinct. www.nebxassn.com. Implementation • Continue existing outreach activities initiated by 41st Pre‐ Increase police presence and encourage greater dialogue cinct between community members and police • Work with Community Board 2 to advocate at City Hall for increased funding for the 41st Precinct to increase and/or The community visioning process suggests that community reallocate police presence in or to areas known for crimi‐ members are ambivalent about the state of police and com‐ nal activity munity relations. On the one hand, increased police presence • Ensure active police participation as a requirement for was the top priority for community members in feeling safer forming Neighborhood Watch Program in the community. On the other, some community members • Convene community meetings with 41st Precinct in other expressed concern that the current police presence was not venues the kind of presence they want. Others expressed concern
84 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
Implementing Organizations by service organizations, the local police precinct, and/or • Community Board 2, New York City Mayor’s Office, New Bronx Community Solutions in order to address the issue from York City Police Department, 41st Precinct, community or‐ both a service and public safety perspective. Please see End‐ ganizations, churches, schools, businesses, and commu‐ notes for a listing of resources in New York City. nity members Implementation Potential Funding Sources • Convene a series of community meetings or workshops on • New York City budget health and other service issues that impact sex workers, as well as the impact of prostitution on public safety Frame the issues of prostitution and the plight of sex work‐ • Form partnerships with organizations that provide hous‐ ers in Hunts Point as both community health and public ing assistance, vocational training, mental health services, safety concerns alternative sentencing, among others to work with sex workers in Hunts Point As described above, the majority of survey respondents, as well as focus group and interview participants, identified Implementing Organizations prostitution in Hunts Point as a public safety issue. At the • Community member and organizations, Sex Workers Pro‐ same time, however, few people could define the scope of ject, Citiwide Harm Reduction, other service organizations the issue or point to organizations providing outreach and working with sex workers, 41st Precinct, Bronx Community services to the sex workers. Community outreach and educa‐ Solutions, Community Board 2 tion efforts are necessary to better inform the larger commu‐ nity about the issue of prostitution in Hunts Point as well as Potential Funding Sources the health, safety, and other relevant issues that affect sex • Existing outreach budgets of organizations providing ser‐ workers. vices to sex workers
Organizations such as the Sex Workers Project at the Urban Justice Center or Citiwide Harm Reduction are available to facilitate a public workshop or training. These efforts repre‐ sent a first step in informing the community and offering health and other necessary services to sex workers, and may ultimately help those seeking alternate means of employ‐ ment. Further workshops may include those jointly facilitated
Community Vision & Recommendations 85
View from Hunts Point Riverside Park, Lafayette Avenue.
86 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
4.6 Community Identity & Participation Vision: ample, a focus on the area’s low median household income Hunts Point has a positive identity and hopeful fu‐ and other indicators of poverty fail to portray the significant ture that is influenced by active resident participa‐ spending potential the neighborhood possesses or the strong organizational infrastructure that exists. tion in planning processes. Implementation A major underlying challenge facing Hunts Point is reversing • Convene community groups and residents in focus groups the negative image it carries, both from the perspective of to vision a coherent identity outsiders as well as many community members themselves. • Target diverse media through which to promote neighbor‐ Improving perception is a long process, and results from in‐ hood both locally and throughout New York City cremental, concrete actions. • Develop outreach materials that carry campaign slogans and imagery Initiate place‐making campaign • Explore a signage program along Hunts Point Avenue, La‐ fayette Avenue, and Spofford Avenue that utilize consis‐ A place‐making campaign can be implemented through di‐ tent imagery and build on NYCEDC’s streetscape projects verse media, including television, radio, the internet, newspa‐ (include landscaping and street lighting on these thor‐ pers, billboards, and signage. The key component to such a oughfares) campaign is a consistent, targeted message that projects posi‐ tive and attractive aspects of the community. For example, Implementing Organizations Hunts Point can capitalize on the images of its new waterfront • Consortium of community groups, local business owners, parks, views of Manhattan, and the new Fulton Fish Market. public relations consulting firm, community members It is important to emphasize that successful place‐making needs to occur both within and beyond the neighborhood. Potential Funding Sources • New York City Economic Development Corporation A related issue is that organizations and others working in (NYCEDC), foundations, Main Streets Program of the Na‐ Hunts Point can promote the neighborhood’s assets in addi‐ tional Trust for Historic Places tion to recognizing its needs. Low‐income communities eve‐ rywhere are burdened by having to continually demonstrate Best Practices their deficiencies in order to attract attention and funding, yet • District del Sol is a commercial district located across the in doing so, inadvertently create an image that does not in‐ river from downtown St. Paul, Minnesota, where a group clude physical, social, economic, and human assets. For ex‐ of local business owners formed the Riverview Economic
Community Vision & Recommendations 87
Development Association during a time of economic de‐ Implementing Organizations cline. By actively creating a vision for the district and • Community groups, Community Board 2, community branding it as “District del Sol” in 2001, local merchants members were able to successfully collaborate with one another and the city of St. Paul to build a vibrant, prosperous busi‐ Potential Funding Sources ness district. See www.districtdelsol.com. • Foundations
Continue to advocate for an inclusive process on the Oak Best Practices Point site development in which residents’ ideas and con‐ • In 1995, the Commonwealth of Virginia proposed to site a cerns are heard and carry influence maximum security prison on 260 acres in Bayview, Vir‐ ginia, an isolated and forgotten rural town of about 100 Currently, the most contentious development project in residents living in dilapidated shacks, few with running Hunts Point is the Oak Point site, with the City proposing to water. In response, community residents formed Bayview locate a jail and opposition groups promoting an alternate Citizens for Social Justice and successfully lobbied the use, including an eco‐industrial park proposal advocated by county and state to defeat the proposed prison plan. The SSB. Regardless of the outcome of this issue, the process by organization worked with local and national partners to which the final use is determined should be inclusive of resi‐ rebuild the town by acquiring 158 acres and developing dents and truly integrate the concerns and aspirations of the Bayview Rural Village, which secured $7 million in fed‐ community members. A parallel planning process, funded eral and state funding for a development of 73 rental and independently, would provide an opportunity to focus on this owner‐occupied homes. In addition, the organization specific issue from the community’s perspective, thereby of‐ raised $3 million for a barn and greenhouse, as well as a fering an opportunity to circumvent the interests of any par‐ job training and child care center. Contact Alice Coles, Ex‐ ticular interest groups. ecutive Director, tel: 757.331.1840.
Implementation “Saying that, ‘at least we can be close to our families’ • Explore opportunities for supporting a community‐based planning process for the Oak Point site is an insult. I don’t have any family in jail! Saying • Continue outreach campaign to inform and educate com‐ these kinds of things creates an expectation of vio‐ munity members about the project on an ongoing basis lence and crime. It gives an incentive to do something • Continue to engage City agencies in order to promote a wrong.” – Focus Group Participant community‐based process for visioning the Oak Point site
88 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
• The Fruitvale Transit Village project is located in a pre‐ major businesses have not been forced to integrate the needs dominantly Latino neighborhood near downtown Oakland, of the local community into their plans. California. After the Bay Area Regional Transit (BART) an‐ nounced plans to construct a 541‐space parking garage Implementation next to the metro station, community groups and business • Conduct outreach to community members to provide in‐ owners, in collaboration with city council members, organ‐ formation and promote opportunities for participation ized to oppose the project. The collaboration built a part‐ • Organize a range of participation forums—including task nership with BART and the City of Oakland that resulted in forces, focus groups, and town hall meetings—to deter‐ a highly successful development that integrates housing, mine those that work best with the community parking, and office, community, and retail space around • Compile community knowledge and disseminate to rele‐ the Fruitvale BART station. See www.fruitvalevillage.net. vant entities
Implement regular mechanisms for community participation Implementing Organizations and feedback • Community groups, community members
The most effective mechanism for truly empowering a com‐ Potential Funding Sources munity is to organize and mobilize residents, an effort that • Private foundations several community groups in Hunts Point have undertaken for years. The next level is to institutionalize citizen participation, Best Practices a function that officially happens through New York City’s • The Beehive project is implemented by One Economy Cor‐ Community Board system. Given the formal nature of this poration, a nonprofit organization based in Washington, system, however, additional mechanisms are needed that op‐ DC, to increase access to technology in low‐income areas. erate independently of the City, such as resident task forces, The impetus of the project is to empower residents with regular “town hall” style meetings, and regular focus groups. information through the Beehive, a multilingual website In these arenas, residents can both receive critical informa‐ that connects users to one another and resources on tion that is needed to inform their perspectives and provide health, jobs, money, education, and family. Through its feedback and ideas on the future of their community. Al‐ technology, the Beehive assists low‐income populations though the survey results from this project suggest that resi‐ with filing for the Earned Income Tax Credit, creating busi‐ dents feel empowered to effect change, the reality of Hunts ness plans, and completing homework assignments, Point is that development projects have largely not benefitted among other uses. See www.one‐economy.com and the local population because City agencies, developers, and www.thebeehive.org.
Community Vision & Recommendations 89
Endnotes New York Association for New Americans (NYANA) Tel: 212.425.2900 4.1 Workforce Development Vision 1 For discussion, see Innovative Employment Approaches and Safe Horizon Tel: 212.577.7700 Programs for Low‐Income Families, the Urban Institute, 2007. 2 Lafayette Street, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10007 2 These companies require drivers with experience and clean • Domestic Violence Hotline: 800.621.HOPE (4673) driving records. • Crime Victims Hotline: 866.689.HELP • Rape, Sexual Assault & Incest Hotline: 212.227.3000 TDD phone number for all hotlines: 866.604.5350 4.5 Public Safety Vision Sex Worker Resource List Ali Forney Center (Housing for LGBT Youth) Legal Assistance Tel: 212.222.3427 Sex Workers Project, Urban Justice Center Tel: 646.602.5617 Legal advocacy for past and current sex workers and traf‐ Health and Wellness ficked persons. Assistance with immigration issues. Media and Citiwide Harm Reduction policy advocacy, human rights documentation. Tel: 718.292.7718 Urban Justice Center also has many other projects addressing 226 East 144th Street, Bronx, New York 10451 numerous issues such as housing, legal name change, domes‐ tic violence, workers/tenants rights and mental health. Callen‐Lorde Community Health Center Tel: 646.602.5600 Tel: 212.271.7200 (must call to make appointment) 356 West 18th Street, New York, NY 10011 Social Services Girls Education and Mentoring Services (GEMS) Positive Health Project Tel: 212.926.8089 Tel: 212.465.8304 301 West 37th Street, 2nd Floor, NY, NY 10018 SAVI Operation Guardian Program Tel: 212.423.2140 or 718.286.6604 Gay Men’s Health Crisis Tel: 212.367.1000 (Both GEMS and SAVI offer programs and counseling The Tisch Building, 119 West 24 Street, New York, NY 10011 for teen girls)
90 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
Rape Crisis Safe Horizon New York City District Attorney's Crime/Special Victims Bu‐ Bronx Community Program Office reaus 2530 Grand Concourse, 7th Floor, Bronx NY 10458 Specialized divisions that prosecute sexual assault and abuse. Planned Parenthood For the Bronx, Tel: 718.590.2115. Bronx Center 349 East 149th Street, Bronx NY Bronx Resources Community Healthcare Network Kingsbridge Heights Community Center Child Sexual Abuse Treatment and Prevention Program Bronx Health Center 3101 Kingsbridge Terrace, Bronx NY 10463 975 Westchester Ave., Bronx NY 10459
Montefiore Medical Center Bronx District Attorney's Office The Butler Child Advocacy Center Crime Victims Assistance Therapy Unit 3314 Steuben Ave., Bronx NY 10467 198 E 161st St. 5th floor, Bronx NY 10451
St. Barnabas Hospital Bronx County District Attorney’s Satellite Office Child Advocacy Center Crime Victims Unit Union Community Health Center, 260 E 188 Street, 5th Floor, 4101 White Plains Rd, Bronx NY 10466 Bronx NY 10458 North Central Bronx Hospital Jacobi Medical Center Sexual Assault Treatment Program Family Advocacy Center 3424 Kossuth Avenue, Bronx NY 10467 JACP Building # 5 Second floor Suite 235, Bronx NY 10461 New‐ Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center New‐ Montefiore Medical Center Lincoln Child Advocacy Center Adolescent AIDS Program 234 East 149th St., Suite 4A, Bronx NY 10451 111 E. 210th St., Bronx NY
Fordham‐Tremont Community Mental Health Center Source: Sex Workers Project, The Urban Justice Center Family Crisis Services / Crime Victim Assistance Program 2021 Grand Concourse, 6th Floor, Bronx NY 10453
Community Vision & Recommendations 91
92 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood 5 CONCLUSION When initiating development projects in neighborhoods, it is insufficient simply to solicit community members’ input. Rather, these stakeholders’ voices must also carry influence on decision making processes. By listening to community members, the specific needs of neighborhoods can be priori‐ tized and inform the goals and outcomes of development.
The main purpose of this project has been to hear directly from diverse Hunts Point community members through a bot‐ tom‐up, community‐driven process. In this way, it comple‐ ments existing reports and planning processes, and is unique in empowering community members themselves as the cen‐ tral decision makers. By providing a platform for community members to voice their ideas and concerns for the neighbor‐ hood directly—rather than through the representation of po‐ litical officials, faith leaders, community groups, or others— the project has facilitated and compiled Hunts Point’s diverse voices through active participation, resulting in a community‐ based vision for the future of the neighborhood.
The Sustainable South Bronx is committed to continuing its mission of collaborating with the Hunts Point community, and hopes that this document can serve as a resource with ideas to be further pursued, debated, refined, and implemented.
Conclusion 93
94 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood A CKNOWLEDGMENTS We would like to thank everyone who generously gave their Wildcat Service Corporation time to participate in the process by administering and com‐ Youth Ministries for Peace and Justice pleting the survey, attending focus groups, providing informa‐ Priscilla Alexander tion and perspectives through interviews, sharing data and resources, and generally voicing their ideas for the future of Survey Volunteers and Organizations Hunts Point. Marta Rodriguez Darcel Calixte Participating Organizations and Individuals Pat Haynes Bronx Charter School of the Arts Rogena Lilienthal Bronx Community Board 2 Elaine Taylor Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation Donna Saunders Bronx Workforce1 Career Center Albert Barnes Citiwide Harm Reduction Carla Toppins Feinberg Brothers Realty Anthony Gilliard Hunts Point Alliance for Children Keshia De la Mothe Hunts Point Economic Development Corporation Caren Rodriguez Mothers on the Move Edwin Williams Mud/Bone Justin Briggs New York City Department of Parks & Recreation Taft Pettiford New York City Department of Small Business Services Lawrence Campbell New York City Economic Development Corporation Analisa Hamilton New York City Police Department, 41st Precinct Amanda Parnlla New York State Department of Labor David Quinones Nos Quedamos Jenny Mena The Point Community Development Corporation Dianny Mena Rocking the Boat Bryant Estrella St. Ignatius School Jade Blair St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church Adaobi Kanu Sex Workers Project of the Urban Justice Center Sarah Diaz Sistas on the Rise Margaret Jimenez Urban Health Plan Lisbelys Nova
Acknowledgments 95
Idolth Coulton Deirdre Warren Christine Laboy Enmanuel Gomez College Now Bronx Community Solutions, AmeriCorps Program KIPP to College, KIPP Academy New York The Point Community Development Corporation, A.C.T.I.O.N. Program
Funder The project received specific funding from the New York Foundation, and general support from the Jessie Smith Noyes and Scherman Foundations.
96 In My Backyard: A Profile of Hunts Point with Recommendations for Realizing Community Members’ Vision for their Neighborhood
97