Aldebol highlights empty storefronts and Heart Island access

Earlier this year, I took SBS Commissioner Kenny Minaya to City Island to meet with local business owners.

But the most striking part of that visit wasn't our conversations with the incredible family business owners or the delicious seafood we sampled.

It was the empty storefronts we walked by, one after the other, right down City Island Avenue.

Another important constituency to consider in these discussions are those who have family and loved ones laid to rest on Heart Island.

New York City has made significant strides in improving the accessibility of Heart Island and recognizing its complex history.

However, the only way to Heart Island is through City Island, and for New Yorkers across the five boroughs, right now it is an incredibly difficult and long journey to make via public transit.

City Island deserves to be a destination for its beautiful views, shopping, incredible food, bringing desperately needed traffic into the small businesses.

But we also must make sure our efforts center the needs of City Island residents as well.

And from my engagement with City Island community, I understand that this issue is nuanced for many residents.

A new study will provide critical context for future actions, helping us develop a plan based on data and community input.

I look forward to hearing more from EDC, the community members at today's hearing, so that we can work towards a plan that serves the best interests of City Island and the East Bronx.