City Council approves Parks acquisition of Prospect Farm amid bridge concerns * Brooklyn Paper

"The acquisition would make the garden eligible for labor and capital improvements through Parks' GreenThumb program, including raised beds, fencing, sheds, gazebos, pergolas and internal water-supply infrastructure, depending on funding."

"The single-span bridge, built in 1930, has been deemed "beyond its useful life" by DOT and requires replacement in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, including construction of an ADA-compliant pedestrian ramp."

"Although owners and community members support accessibility improvements, they raised concerns about potential construction of the ADA-compliant ramp along the 100-foot right-of-way (ROW) under DOT jurisdiction. The possible construction of the ramp could block sunlight and direct access to the garden."

The NYC Council approved the Parks Department's acquisition of Prospect Farm, a 3,200-square-foot nonprofit cooperative community garden in Windsor Terrace established in 2010. The acquisition qualifies the garden for GreenThumb program improvements including raised beds, fencing, sheds, and water infrastructure. However, garden owners and members expressed concerns about the adjacent Seeley Street Bridge reconstruction planned by the Department of Transportation. The 1930-built bridge requires replacement to comply with ADA requirements, including an accessible pedestrian ramp. Preliminary DOT plans suggest the ramp construction could block sunlight and direct garden access. Community members criticized DOT's limited engagement and transparency regarding the project's potential impacts on garden operations.

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