Velázquez Applauds Park Row Reopening as Progress for Chinatown

Velázquez Applauds Park Row Reopening as Progress for Chinatown
May 16, 2005

NEW YORK - Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez (D-N.Y.) today released the following statement marking the much anticipated reopening of Park Row:

"The struggle to reclaim the streets of Chinatown and Park Row has been a long and arduous fight. I am so proud to join with my colleagues and members of the community to celebrate this vital step in the reopening of our neighborhood. With the tough economic times our country has endured since the terrorist attacks of 9/11, I know that many New York City businesses have faced adversity - including those that line the streets of Park Row.

"Today, local businesses and residents will be partially relieved from the police barricades and street closures that have hindered the routines of their daily lives over the past four years. However, in order to restore the neighborhood to its former character, it is essential that this effort does not end here. It is critical that all transportation routes are reopened to ensure Park Row is connected to the rest of Lower Manhattan.

"This is an important day for Chinatown - not only for economic reasons - but because it shows the progress that can be made when we join together as a community. For the scores of advocates throughout the City that were empowered to lend their voices to the cause - you have proven that this neighborhood belongs to you!

"We have been fighting for a long time to reopen Park Row and to get this neighborhood back on its feet. This is truly a day of celebration for the residents and small business owners of Chinatown - and one that will pave the way toward a full reopening - and greater economic growth and prosperity."

http://www.house.gov/velazquez/PressReleases/2003/PR051605.htm