As you know, NYS is constructing a large-scale parole facility in the heart of Gowanus. The building will open as early as December. To fight this, residents, business owners, artists and civic groups have mobilized and formed Gowanus United (GU). Together we are determined to do what we could never do alone — and we need you to help ensure our success.
The facts are clear: NYS is consolidating Brooklyn’s three parole offices into a single sprawling facility at 15 Second Avenue at 5th Street that will serve more than 6,000 parolees (300-400 daily). The building is close to schools and other places where children congregate in a neighborhood that is poorly served by mass transit and already struggling with congested streets and limited parking. The State acted in complete secrecy and with no regard for the vibrant, mixed-use, family-oriented neighborhood surrounding the site. For more information, see our attached flyer or visit our website http://gowanusunited.org.
GU is attacking the problem on three fronts: (1) legal, (2) political, and (3) through grassroots community support. We are grateful that local business and property owners are funding the initial expenses associated with the legal and political strategy. And we have benefited greatly by the pro bono contributions of many of our talented neighbors and friends, as well as support from others who care deeply about Gowanus. But the fight is just beginning….
Please join us for a Mobilization Meeting:
Thursday, October 23rd, 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
(doors open at 6:00pm)
Al-Madinah School
383 3rd Avenue at 5th Street
We will provide progress updates and share plans for the next few weeks, as well as work together to fine-tune those plans. Among the activities that will need your help — intense outreach to schools and child-friendly businesses, planning a demonstration potential outreach to elected officials and spreading the word throughout our community.
Thank you for your interest and support so far. We look forward to seeing you Thursday!
