Senator Dilan Opposes Sale Of Moore Street Market

State Senator Martin Malavé Dilan (D-Brooklyn) today condemned a plan by the New York City Economic Development Corporation (EDC) to sell the Moore Street Market at 110 Moore Street in Brooklyn. Tenants have been told they have to leave by June 15^th in order to make room for new housing development.

“I am outraged by EDC’s failure to inform the public and listen to what the public has to say about this issue. This market has consistently been a cornerstone of the community since it opened. Over the years, residents have come to rely on rare cultural and often one-of-a-kind items they can only find at this market. Now, all of the sudden, these business owners are being told they have to pack up and move or close up shop altogether,” Senator Dilan said.

According to an EDC spokesman, tenants of the market are being offered relocation assistance to move to space at the Williamsburg Houses on Graham Avenue in Brooklyn. Those that choose not to move to this location should still receive relocation assistance from the City. EDC says they will also provide tenants with information on business strategies they can utilize in their future endeavors.

“We have an extremely valuable market here on Moore Street in a great location with high pedestrian traffic and the City is forcing it to close its doors. The City never took the time to consult with the residents, the Community Board, or all the elected officials to inform us of the plans. In other words, there was no community input or due process in this decision, and that clearly demonstrates a lack of interest in the needs and well-being of the residents of Williamsburg, especially the Latino community,” said Senator Dilan.

“We need to make sure that this haven of Latino culture remains intact. I will continue to fight for the rights of the residents and provide us with a loud enough voice that will ensure we do not lose what we have built and come to depend on. I won’t stand by and watch as the institutions that define our heritage are taken away,” Senator Dilan said.