UPDATE: A condemned parking garage in Yonkers, New York, has left drivers scrambling as they must evacuate their vehicles by Friday. The garage, located at 30 Hawthorne Ave, was shut down abruptly, prompting immediate frustration among car owners.
City inspectors Joe Ferrotta and Pat Losco confirmed the closure following a visit on Wednesday to ensure cars could exit but not enter. “I’d rather have the cars out than have the thing collapse,” Losco stated, highlighting the real danger posed by the garage’s deteriorating condition.
The garage was condemned after inspectors discovered multiple safety issues, including “exposed rebar” and “extensive cracking throughout.” Losco declared the building unsafe just three days prior to the inspection, creating a chaotic situation for drivers who were given little notice to find alternative parking.
New York law mandates that garage owners conduct professional inspections every three years and submit reports to local municipalities. However, Yonkers officials revealed that the garage owner, MPG, failed to file the necessary report and neglected to secure permits before initiating repair work.
In a fortunate turn of events, a social media post by resident Janique Breland featuring images of falling concrete drew attention to the dangerous conditions at the garage. Breland expressed relief that her post prompted action, stating, “I will pay the additional $60 to park my car where it’s safe for me and my son, where I know I won’t be trapped.”
As tensions rise, workers have posted signs indicating that renovations were set to begin, but insiders suggest that the city may not be surprised if the owner opts for demolition instead of repairs.
Drivers are urged to take immediate action to safeguard their vehicles and avoid potential financial losses from damage or towing. With the deadline looming, it is critical for car owners to relocate their vehicles now.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.