Senator Squadron Hails New Rutgers Houses Sidewalk and Updated Security at Baruch Addition

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Rarely does a sidewalk attract so much political attention. But, nevertheless, here we are twice in the last two months (counting the Allen Street Mall, of course). Monday morning, the concrete outside the Rutgers Houses was turned into a photo op for the electeds. Namely, State Senator Squadron who celebrated its replacement.

The sidewalks around the NYCHA public housing development had deterioriated rather significantly in recent years. Aside from the obvious tripping hazards, the cracked and sinking sidewalks also exacerbated “rodent conditions” in the immediate vicinity. The area was cordoned off last week for ground-break. By evening, much of the new concrete was poured.

Also part of the media blitz was a free flu shot clinic, and an announcement that better door security was finally implemented at the Baruch Addition (just off Columbia Street). The latter technology arrives five months after Squadron first announced over $240K in state funding for such security improvements. It includes a new automatic door, intercom system, and keyless fob entry, collectively referred to as “layered access.”

“Whether it’s getting our sidewalks in shape, making sure we’re protected from the flu, or ensuring we have better security in our homes, it’s great to be able to work with community members to bring resources to the LES,” said State Senator Daniel Squadron in a public statement. “It’s disappointing that security upgrades at Baruch have been delayed. I’ll keep working with community members to make sure NYCHA is accountable for getting these needed security upgrades done as quickly as possible.”

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