Urgent: Yonkers Garage Condemned, Drivers Must Remove Cars by Friday
UPDATE: A parking garage at 30 Hawthorne Ave. in Yonkers has been condemned, leaving car owners scrambling to find alternative parking. Drivers must remove their vehicles by Friday, December 22, 2023, following alarming findings by city inspectors.
Frustration is palpable among residents who were given only two days’ notice to evacuate the garage. One driver, desperate to find a safe place for his motorcycle, expressed his dismay, stating, “It has been rough, with only like two days notice.” The sudden closure has created a ripple effect of inconvenience, especially during the busy holiday season.
Inspectors Joe Ferrotta and Pat Losco assessed the garage on Wednesday, confirming that while cars are being allowed to exit, no new vehicles can enter due to safety concerns. “I’d rather have the cars out than have the thing collapse,” Losco warned, emphasizing that the danger is real, though not immediate.
The garage was condemned after inspectors discovered severe structural issues, including “exposed rebar” and “extensive cracking throughout.” New York law mandates that parking garages must undergo professional inspections every three years, but officials revealed that the garage owner, MPG, failed to file necessary reports and obtain permits for repair work.
A social media post by resident Janique Breland showing falling concrete drew attention to the garage’s deteriorating condition, prompting city officials to act. Breland expressed relief that her post led to a swift response and has decided to pay an additional $60 to park her car elsewhere, prioritizing safety for herself and her son.
Though a sign was posted indicating upcoming renovations, sources suggest that the city of Yonkers would not be surprised if the garage is ultimately demolished. The garage owner has yet to respond to requests for comment regarding the situation.
Car owners in the area are urged to act quickly to avoid being trapped in the condemned facility. As the deadline approaches, many are left wondering how such a critical safety issue could have escalated without timely intervention.
The city is closely monitoring the situation, and residents are advised to stay updated on any further developments regarding the garage’s fate and their parking options.
