MTA spends $120K on Amazon while East Harlem businesses suffer

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) plans to spend up to $120,000 to ensure Amazon’s Bronx delivery hub remains accessible during construction for the Penn Station Access project. The funds will cover costs like a temporary access route, a curb cut on Marconi Street, and updated site plans for the 367,000-square-foot facility in Morris Park. The MTA needs the new route because it will periodically close Bassett Avenue, the only access point for the hub, during construction.

Meanwhile, small business owners in East Harlem are frustrated that the MTA refuses to help them cope with similar construction disruptions. Lu Nicaj, owner of Eagle Tile, said the Second Avenue Subway construction has destroyed nearly 90% of his business. He claims the MTA took over his loading zone, blocked access with barriers, and ignored promises to assist him. “They make my blood boil,” Nicaj said, questioning why the MTA can reimburse Amazon but not small businesses like his.

Solomon Fresh, owner of Go Donut, reported a 70% drop in sales since construction moved outside his shop four months ago. The MTA has told him it “can’t pay us anything” for the disruptions. Fresh emphasized that he’s not asking for $120,000, just some relief to help his business survive. “This is how I feed my son,” he said, expressing frustration over the MTA’s indifference.

The MTA maintains it is working with East Harlem businesses to mitigate construction impacts, including exploring alternative loading spaces. However, merchants argue the agency’s priority on Amazon highlights a glaring disparity in support for small businesses.