Addabbo partners with Jewish Community Council to help clean Addabbo Memorial Bridge

Over the summer the Joseph P. Addabbo Memorial Bridge, which connects Howard Beach and Broad Channel, has been the target for an increased amount of trash, prompting complaints from local residents. In an effort to remedy the situation, State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. has partnered with the Jewish Community Council (JCC) of Greater Coney Island to bring in a cleaning crew for the area.

Previously, the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) had personnel who would occasionally clean the bridge, but due to COVID-19, that program had to be suspended, leaving the bridge and the pedestrian paths full of debris.

After several calls and emails from constituents alerting him of the condition of the bridge, Addabbo and his office team reached out to the Jewish Community Council of Greater Coney Island and were able to collaborate on bringing in the City Cleanup Corps (CCC) to address the conditions at the bridge.

“While I understand why DOT could not continue their cleaning of the bridge during COVID, and I greatly appreciated their work, the growing debris issue needed to be addressed on a regular basis. I’m also extremely grateful for the efforts of all the volunteers from the community who did a great job cleaning the bridge and surrounding area,” Addabbo stated. “But the conditions have worsened and the trash has accumulated so quickly, that currently a daily maintaining of the bridge is needed. I am thankful that the opportunity to work with the JCC and CCC arose.”

Now, Addabbo’s office has up to four people from the CCC to clean the bridge, 5 days a week, and it has made a noticeable difference.

“I am grateful for the four members of the CCC who come each day and clean up the bridge, the pedestrian path and the grass areas around it,” Addabbo said. “I want to express my thanks to the Jewish Community Council of Greater Coney Island for their partnership in this endeavor, as long as the funding lasts.” The Senator is hopeful that with additional city or state funding, the program can continue well into 2022.

Additionally, if an individual is looking for work, Addabbo’s office can help get in touch with the CCC, who is looking for people to be a part of that clean up program. For more information, contact Addabbo’s office at 718-738-1111.