UPDATE: A condemned parking garage in Yonkers is causing major headaches for drivers, who must remove their vehicles by Friday, December 29, 2023. The sudden closure at 30 Hawthorne Ave has left many scrambling for alternative parking solutions.
Residents like one man, who spent Christmas Eve searching for a safe spot for his motorbike, expressed their frustration. “It has been rough, with only like two days notice,” he said, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
City inspectors Joe Ferrotta and Pat Losco conducted an inspection on December 27 to ensure vehicles could exit the garage but not enter. “I’d rather have the cars out than have the thing collapse,” Losco stated, underscoring the potential danger, which, although not immediate, is significant.
The garage was condemned after inspectors discovered multiple alarming conditions, including “exposed rebar” and “extensive cracking.” Losco condemned the structure just three days prior, citing repeated violations. New York law mandates that garage owners submit professional inspection reports every three years; the owner, MPG, failed to comply, missing the deadline for filing required documents and permits before initiating repairs.
Social media played a pivotal role in addressing the situation. Resident Janique Breland posted images of falling concrete, which prompted city officials to take action. “I’m happy the post prompted a response,” Breland remarked, adding that she plans to relocate her vehicle to a nearby garage, despite the additional cost of $60. “I will pay the additional amount to park my car where it’s safe for me and my son, where I know I won’t be trapped,” she emphasized.
While workers have posted notices indicating that renovations were about to begin, government sources suggest that the owner may ultimately opt to demolish the garage instead.
As the deadline approaches, impacted drivers are advised to act swiftly to secure alternative parking arrangements. Local authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and further updates are expected as this developing story unfolds.
