The Gentrification of Street Vending in the Bronx
Unlicensed Vendors Pushed Away from Kingsbridge Armory
Unlicensed vendors who have long sold their wares in front of the massive and long-vacant Kingsbridge Armory say law enforcement officials have been pushing them away over the last two months, hollowing out what had been a bustling streetscape.
A Changing Landscape
Before the stepped-up enforcement, vendors would show up as early as 3 a.m. to secure spots on the sidewalk. "It was packed, like people had to fight over spots," Maria, a vendor who asked to be identified, said.
The City’s Enforcement
The city has increased its crackdown on unlicensed street vendors since the Department of Sanitation took over the lead enforcement role last April. The number of tickets issued in the Bronx went up by 29%, with Bronx Community District 8, which includes the armory, seeing the sharpest increase, to 27 tickets from two the previous year.
The Vendors’ Perspective
Many unlicensed vendors have applied for street vending licenses, waiting months and even years for any response. The maximum number of licenses available for general merchandise sellers citywide is 853, a cap that advocacy groups are looking to lift through proposed legislation.
Developing the Armory
The 500,000-square-foot, nine-story tall armory is in the early stages of its latest redevelopment plan, with $200 million in city and state grants awaiting the next developer as the city’s Economic Development Corporation considers various proposals. The city has owned the property since 1996, and has previously failed to implement plans to establish a mall and then an ice rink there.
Community Reaction
Local small business operators had mixed opinions on street vendors selling their goods in front of the armory. "I wouldn’t have no problem because people gotta make their money, pay their bills," said Miguel Ramos, who has managed King’s Gift Shop for 27 years. "The vendors used to bring more business for other businesses," Mamadou Bah, a store worker, added. "Just give them a license. Don’t make it harder for them."
Conclusion
The increased enforcement efforts have left many vendors reeling, with some questioning the city’s motives. As the armory’s redevelopment plans continue to take shape, the future of street vending in the area remains uncertain.
FAQs
Q: Why have unlicensed vendors been pushed away from the Kingsbridge Armory?
A: The city has increased its crackdown on unlicensed street vendors since the Department of Sanitation took over the lead enforcement role last April.
Q: What is the maximum number of licenses available for general merchandise sellers citywide?
A: 853
Q: What is the proposed legislation aimed at lifting the cap on street vending licenses?
A: Advocacy groups are seeking to lift the cap through proposed legislation.
