Washington Heights & Inwood

Business & Economy

215th Step-Street to Get Long-Awaited Overhaul

February 14, 2013 8:48am | Updated February 14, 2013 8:48am
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INWOOD — The decrepit, crumbling West 215th step-street is finally going to be repaired, city documents show.

According to the Department of Design and Construction the steps, which connect Broadway and Park Terrace East at 215th Street, will be completely reconstructed, with new lighting, benches, and draining systems being installed.

The current steps are cracked and don't drain properly, causing puddles of water and ice to form.

It’s been in the works for far too long, but I’m excited we’re now making progress on getting the steps at 215th Street repaired,” said Senator Adriano Espaillat, who has been pushing for repairs to the steps since 1999.

"The new design will fix a major safety hazard in our community, and feature a beautiful, contextually appropriate design for the neighborhood."

The DCC, which has issued a request for bids on the project, hopes to begin reconstruction in the fall, with winter 2014 as the estimated completion date. DCC spokesman Craig Chin added that the steps will still be available for use during construction.

"It is a priority to maintain pedestrian access at all times during construction," Chin said.

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