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September 7, 2012
Brooklyn residents last gasp complaints over Barclays arena traffic and garbage before opening Sept. 28
Prospect Heights complain and worry about what's about to happen to their neighborhood
NY Daily News
by Reuven Blau
Residents near the Barclays Center lashed out at Forest City Ratner officials Wednesday over anticipated parking and trash problems before the arena opens in three weeks.
More than 150 angry Prospect Heights locals showed up at a meeting to complain about how the neighborhood was soon going to be taken over by thousands of cars and revelers expected for each basketball game and concert.
“You put an arena in a residential area and that's what's going to happen,” said Anthony Reves, 30, as he walked home after the meeting started at Latin Evangelical Free Church at 506 Bergen St.
FCR official Ashley Cotton told the audience the bright lights outside the arena would be turned off from 1 to 5 a.m. night and delivery trucks would be assigned to a specific route on main roads in an effort to reduce traffic down residential blocks.
...Before the meeting started, community activist Tracy Collins, 48, stood outside reminiscing about the six year struggle. “I don't expect much to come of this,” he said.
Asked if he'd be attending events at the arena, he responded, "I don't envision myself paying money to see something at Barclays. I feel like I've already paid enough."
NoLandGrab: Wow, a whole four hours! We're surprised they didn't start out at two hours and say they'd been merciful.
Related coverage...
threecee via flickr, 2012 Barclays Center Arena Neighborhood Protection Plan Meeting
Speaking of Tracy Collins...
Posted by eric at September 7, 2012 11:16 AM