Vines & Voices 028: That’s That for the Bike Lane Lawsuit
Plus, Gus’ quiet closure, the BQE gets some work done, a neighborhood Netflix moment and more.
Welcome to Vines & Voices, your weekly look at life across West Brooklyn. Curated by CSJ, this free newsletter brings together the local news and goings-on shaping our neighborhoods, plus a few extras worth knowing. Have a tip, a story idea or something you think deserves attention? Write to us. Your voice helps shape the story.
The Weekly Edit
Judge Inga O’Neale dismissed the Court Street Merchants Association’s lawsuit challenging the Court Street bike lane this week, ruling that the city acted within its authority and had a rational safety-based reason for the redesign. The decision ends the legal challenge and allows the bike lane to remain in place.
In more bike-related news, locals are still frustrated by a Citi Bike station being replaced with a parking lot last summer.
The Brooklyn Heights Community Fridge needs a new home.
Gus’ quietly closed its doors for good after running one final service on New Year’s Eve.
Montero Bar & Grill has been sold to a hospitality group run by a longtime friend of Pepe Montero, who took over the family business from his father.
A Khmer restaurant called Hōp will open across from Red Hook Tavern, whose owner is backing it, this summer. Hōp is currently popping up in Park Slope, where Andamiro, which serves Korean soups, recently opened.
Afghan bakery Diljān, which opened in Brooklyn Heights last month, is drawing attention for its naan, dips and pastries.
A historic rezoning plan that would bring thousands of new apartments to Atlantic Avenue has drawn criticism from residents and housing advocates who say it prioritizes luxury development over affordable housing.
Netflix filmed scenes for “Don’t Ever Wonder,” an upcoming romance, in the neighborhood this week.
In infrastructure news, the BQE started getting some much-needed work done, while Governor Kathy Hochul allocated $10 million towards upgrades meant to support the Red Hook Container Terminal.
Lily Allen and David Harbour knocked nearly $700k off the asking price of their townhome.
The building that houses Court Street Bagels has sold for about $15 million.
Goings On
Brooklyn Roots Collective is hosting its New Year New-To-You Night Out Market tonight starting at 6pm. If your idea of a Friday night includes vintage finds, a free clothing swap, life drawing, vegan cheese and a drink in hand, click here.
The Brooklyn Lace Guild is inviting anyone working on lace or lace-adjacent projects to join a new monthly series it will host at the Textile Arts Center beginning Sunday, Jan. 18.
Place Des Fetes will donate 10 percent of proceeds from dinner service on Sunday, Jan. 18 to Ruth’s Refuge, an organization providing home furnishings and essentials to refugees and asylees in the city.
Nako is looking to feature works by artists, painters or photographers on the display wall inside its cafe.
Paisano’s has curated Super Bowl packages for those hosting next month.
Perhaps if we all eat Poppy’s turmeric chicken soup this winter, no one will get sick! (One can hope.)
One Last Thing
NYTimes suggests finding a cozy restaurant – specifically F&F – instead of flying to Florida this winter. Where are you cozying up this season?