An elite Upper East Side private school won approval to close East 77th Street between Second and Third avenues for student recess, sparking backlash from local businesses and residents who fear disruptions to their daily lives.
Why It Matters: The street closure affects numerous businesses and will block an ambulance route to nearby Lenox Hill Hospital, pitting the needs of 500 students at the $62,500-per-year Birch Wathen Lenox School against neighborhood merchants and residents, Upper East Site was first to report.
Driving the News: Community Board 8 unanimously approved the school’s application to shut down the block for two hours a day, three days a week starting next month as part of the city’s Open Streets program, per Upper East Site.
What They’re Saying: “It’s a school filled with very rich kids. It’s like the 1% taking away from the 99%,” said Todd Layne, owner of Todd Layne laundromat, according to the New York Post, who worries the mid-day closures will hurt his peak business hours.
Zoom In: Local businesses fear significant losses. Toby Chancey of Toby Clairty Lighting estimates he could lose 10% of his business because elderly customers drive to his storefront, the New York Post notes. The East 77th Block Association reports many residents oppose the plan, citing concerns about noise, accessibility, and emergency vehicle access.
What’s Next: The program faces review after one year and could be scrapped.
