MarineParker.net

Clearly taken in much better weather, these pictures confirm that the “second story question” for 3512 Quentin Road has been answered – apparently it is allowed.  All violations for this site has been resolved and building is going forth as planned.  According to Department of Finance data, this one-story building is already at its maximum allowable floor area – so how an extra story of 5,700 square feet can be permitted is beyond me.  Money talks, I guess. 

If you think the current traffic and congestion on Quentin Road is bad, take a walk/drive there now to see all the construction/cement trucks blocking the avenue.

For past posts on this development: UPDATE: 3512 Quentin Road Adds Second Story and Development Watch: 3512 Quentin Road (Herr’s).

Essentially the entire northern side of Avenue U between Hendrickson Street and Flatbush Avenue is for sale/for rent (with the exception of the the Verizon dealer).  Is this a prime opportunity for useful stores/shops to come to the neighborhood or just more of the same type of useless stores that grace most of Flatbush Avenue?

Mom and Pop Free WI-FI cafe/bakery, anyone?

Courtesy of Dumbo Books of Brooklyn

Today Sheepshead Bites posted a Courier-Life report that says the Kings Plaza Diner will be replaced by a Bed, Bath and Beyond. 

Courtesy of Sheepshead Bites:

The article, laden with enough praise for the diner that one must wonder if it’s an advertiser, says that Community Board 18 District Manager Dottie Turano mentioned at a recent meeting that she had heard “from sources” about the closing. Turano also detailed plans to move into the former Retro 50s diner on Cropsey Avenue in Coney Island, the Nebraskan Diner, which has been closed for two years.

Although owners are denying the rumors, Courier-Life reports:

The only evidence of any proposed change comes by way of city Department of Finance records, which showed a deed change at the Kings Plaza Diner back in February 2009 to Sigma Preferred Equities, which couldn’t be reached as this paper went to press. There has been no deed change for the Retro 50s diner since 1998. Residents, however, have noted that construction materials have been left at the site — possible evidence of an upcoming transformation.

Chatter about development on this site has been around for quite awhile.  Furthermore, the site isn’t large enough to accomodate a “big-box retailer” such as Bed, Bath and Beyond.  In fact, I doubt the entire site would even be large enough for the store’s parking lot.

To read the entire article from Courier-Life, click here.

Ashley Furniture Home Store has come to Flatbush Avenue between East 47th and East 48th Streets.  It appears that Flatbush Avenue could become a destination for furniture and home decor retailers (Raymour & Flanigan exists further south) as many sites could accomodate  the large showrooms that such retailers require. 

I think having reputable retailers that can bring a new clientele to the area is a good thing.  Flatbush Avenue has always had its share of fly-by-night businesses that do not add to a local area’s economy.  Although formula retailers are often cited for not contributing to the local economy, the existence of a successful one could foster locally owned businesses to open nearby.  And with so many sites vacant, it’s a good sign to see businesses come here.

Maybe it’s just the silly name that piques my interest, but “It’s All About Me Now,” located on Gerritsen Avenue off of Avenue U, has been opened for a few months now, taking up two storefronts and replacing “Roscoe’s Doggy Day Care.”  Was curious to see if anyone has been in here?  How is the merchandise?  As non-sensical as the store’s name?  However, kudos for a local business opening…hoping it does very well.

Following up on our prior article of this topic, GerritsenBeach.net has interviewed the owner of McGuinness’ Irish Gift Shop, John McGuinness, who explains that the store is closing for a few reasons, including the economy, parking issues, and that now is just the time to go.  The store will definitely be missed…

As this will be their last holiday season, one may want to purchase some items.  All merchandise in the store is 30% off.

It appears that a new pharmacy is coming to Avenue U between Bragg and Brigham Streets.  Almost completed, my guess is that this is a Walgreens, based on the design and materials. Additionally, it looks very similar to the Walgreens that opened less than two months ago on Coney Island Avenue and Avenue W, featured on Sheepshead Bites.

According to the Department of Buildings, a parking lot with 27 spaces will be provided.  Due to a recent text amendment by the Department of City Planning, this parking lot must be landscaped.

Although I wish more “neighborhood serving” businesses would come to the area, it is understandable that in this economic climate only large corporations and franchises would be financially able to open a new store.

Ongoing construction of the Lowe’s Store on Avenue U (adjacent to Kings Plaza) has resulted in a gargantuan concrete wall along Avenue U.  This fortress-like barrier is not only ugly, but poorly positioned as it leaves little sidewalk space along Avenue U.  Additionally, this dense street wall obstructs views and could encourage dangerous behavior.  In the world of successful “place-making” this design fails – desolate as the street is late at night, now it is even more so.

According to the Department of Buildings, a “Partial Stop Work Order” exists on this site since the “work does not conform to approved site safety plans.”  The site currently has 11 open violations.

I don’t understand how this site plan was approved by DOB with the giant concrete wall abutting Avenue U.  It does not appear that there is a set-back, which is very hard to imagine not having along Avenue U.  The wall doesn’t appear to be temporary either. 

Does anyone have further information on this?

Valley National Bank has recently opened on Avenue U and East 29th Street.  It seems that most large developments these days are large banks and drug store chains.  This is a phenomenon all throughout New York City, with local businesses and mom and pop stores falling to the wayside.  Is there any hope of this trend being reversed?

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL BUSINESSES!

After serving the Marine Park community for several years, McGuinness’ Irish Gift Shop is closing its doors.  Part and parcel of going out of business, all merchandise (not including food) is 30% off.  Always sad to see a long-standing neighborhood-serving business close, MarineParker wishes its owner(s) the best of luck in all future endeavors.

McGuinness’ Irish Gift Shop

3609 Avenue S

Brooklyn, NY 11234

(718) 627-0009

Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10 AM – 7 PM and Saturday 10 AM – 6 PM