At the ribbon-cutting ceremony for , Clarkstown Town Supervisor Alex Gromack spoke about how he thinks the revitalization of downtown New City is helping the local business community.
“I think our effort is encouraging new businesses,” he said. “We hear from new businesses all the time about possibly opening in New City, and I think a big reason why is because of our effort to improve New City.”
He said the revitalization project is aiming to make New City more walkable.
“We want people to come to New City and stay awhile,” he said. “If someone has to pick up a prescription here at Clarkstown Pharmacy, then they can easily walk to a number of restaurants close by for lunch.”
Gromack added that the new signs in the DeCicco's Marketplace shopping center, where Clarkstown Pharmacy is located, also give the shopping center a classy feel. He also said he and other local officials are constantly talking to community members and business owners to see how the construction on South Main Street is affecting them.
“Obviously there’s a lot of work being done, and we try to always keep at least two lanes flowing,” he said. “Sometimes the workers have to block entrances to shopping areas, but usually they don’t stay in those areas too long. It’s not like New Hempstead Road, where you can be stuck for a half hour. I think most people can see the beauty coming from the revitalization project so far.”
Legislator Ed Day was also at the ribbon-cutting, as well as doing some shopping at the new pharmacy, Wednesday morning, and he said it’s also good to see a new business open in the community. He added that he feels business is holding up well in New City, but it’s hard to figure out the trend of local business given the state of the economy.
“It’s really tough out there for business owners,” he said. “They’re really trying to succeed, and to do that a lot of them are trying to figure out how to evolve their businesses. I commend [Clarkstown Pharmacy owner] Andrew [Barrett] and all other business owners for sticking with it for the good of the community. As Main Street goes, I think, so do all the houses nearby.”
