#news

BQE Panel: Decades of Construction Coming

New details for the BQE Central repair plan reveal a construction timeline through 2040 that will likely overlap with the $3.5 billion Brooklyn Marine Terminal redevelopment and multiple housing projects.

You Can Bid on Kelly Clarkson’s Backup Bird. Money Goes to Charity.

A set of singing mechanical-bird automatons from the Brooklyn Heights store Art of Play is currently up for auction to benefit glioblastoma research.

Gowanopolis Rising

A documentary by residents Jamie Courville and Chris Reynolds captures the radical physical transformation of Gowanus following its 2021 rezoning and federal Superfund cleanup.

Brooklyn Public Library launches first ever craft library

The Brooklyn Public Library has launched its first-ever Craft Supply Library at the Central Library, allowing cardholders to borrow tools for screen printing, embroidery, and bookbinding.

NYC Ferry rides are free on select routes every Thursday in October

NYC Ferry is offering free transit on specific routes every Thursday this October through a partnership with Zelle, ahead of a scheduled system-wide fare increase to $5.

Biketober: NYC DOT Begins Cycling Access Upgrade to Brooklyn Bridge, Announces Bicycle Events for October

NYC DOT has launched construction to upgrade the bike lanes on Boerum Place and Adams Street, providing a two-way protected path to the Brooklyn Bridge.

Urban swimmers eye next target: the Prospect Park Lake

A new local initiative called Prospect Swims is advocating for the conversion of parts of Prospect Park Lake into a public swimming area for Brooklyn residents.

'Truck Flyover': Mamdani's BQE Bypass Will Pass Over Brooklyn Bridge

The Mamdani administration plans a temporary highway bypass for the BQE that will arch over the Brooklyn Bridge approach and pedestrian paths for at least a decade.

The Rent Freeze Starts Today. Landlords Think a Search of Mamdani's Texts Could Overturn It

Landlords are seeking to overturn a historic rent freeze by searching Mayor Zohran Mamdani's personal and professional communications for evidence of improper influence.

Brooklyn Book Festival

The Brooklyn Book Festival returns in September 2026, featuring headline authors like Marlon James and Colson Whitehead at Borough Hall and surrounding Downtown Brooklyn venues.

The Brooklyn Bridge is about to turn into an OCEAN

The Brooklyn Bridge is about to turn into an OCEAN. 🌊🐋 For two nights only, the bridge will become the canvas for AQUA COSMOS: The Hudson Canyon — a massive immersive projection inspired by the underwater world just off New York’s coast. 📅 September 25–26 ⏰ 7–10 PM 📍 Emily Warren Roebling Plaz

Today Brooklyn Public Library is releasing a second JAŸ-Z 30 Limited Edition Library Card to celebrate a massive milesto

Today Brooklyn Public Library is releasing a second JAŸ-Z 30 Limited Edition Library Card to celebrate a massive milestone: the 25th anniversary of The Blueprint. Cards are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis at all BPL branches. You must be a NY resident to sign up for a BPL

DUMBO Finally Has a Farmers Market

The DUMBO Farmers Market at Brooklyn Bridge Park is currently seeking local vendors to list products as it prepares for an upcoming season near Main Street.

KidSuper’s Colm Dillane Brought Local Talent—And Lauryn Hill—to Celebrate Brooklyn Fashion

Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso and designer Colm Dillane hosted The People’s Runway on the steps of Borough Hall to showcase local creative talent.

Brooklyn city councilmembers look to silence Navy Yard's noisy raves

City Councilmembers Lincoln Restler and Crystal Hudson are demanding the Brooklyn Navy Yard halt large-scale raves and concerts following years of noise complaints from local residents.

Iconic, stained glass ‘Watertower’ above Brooklyn Bridge Park dismantled

Artist Tom Fruin’s colorful stained glass water tower has been temporarily removed from Brooklyn Bridge Park for refurbishment and building renovations.

Mamdani plans to build temporary highway in Brooklyn Heights to fix crumbling part of BQE

Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s administration plans to build a temporary two-level highway over Furman Street to divert traffic while rebuilding the crumbling BQE triple-cantilever beneath the Brooklyn Heights Promenade.

The 6-Year Fight Over a Brooklyn Bridge Park Bathroom

Public restrooms at the Pierhouse in Brooklyn Bridge Park remain closed due to a long-running noise lawsuit filed by a luxury condo owner.

NYC Sees an 'Uptick' in ICE Activity

Immigrant advocacy groups report a sharp uptick in ICE activity across New York City, with 21 documented detentions recorded in a single week compared to just two the week prior.

New York State test results 2026 for public schools released

New York City State test results for 2026 show a significant 6-point drop in reading proficiency across grades 3-8, while math scores remained stable at 57% citywide.

New York City to install 600 additional curbside charging points - electrive.com

The NYC Department of Transportation is expanding the PlugNYC network by adding 600 curbside charging points across all five boroughs over the next three years.

MTA wraps up $106M renovation of Borough Hall subway where ceiling collapsed in 2018

The MTA has completed a five-year, $106 million renovation of the Borough Hall subway station, featuring new elevators, flood-proofing, and structural repairs.

Dean & Bergen Bike Boulevard Project | Projects & Initiatives

The NYC Department of Transportation is launching a phased project to convert Dean Street and Bergen Street into low-speed, high-comfort bike boulevards prioritized for cyclists and pedestrians.

The Brooklyn Marine Terminal Development Corporation and Advisory Task Force, explained - Red Hook Star-Revue

The Brooklyn Marine Terminal Development Corporation has begun meetings to finalize the redevelopment of 122 acres of Brooklyn’s waterfront, transitioning from a contentious vision plan to a formal planning process.

Illegal semi-trailer snarls Brooklyn Heights intersection for hours

NYC job alert: City seeks BQE czar to rebuild ramshackle triple-cantilever

The NYC Department of Transportation is hiring an assistant commissioner to serve as a BQE czar tasked with finalizing a long-term fix for the crumbling triple-cantilever structure beneath the Brooklyn Heights Promenade.

Historic vessel mysteriously sinks in NYC — just days after schooner-turned-bar met similar fate

Two historic schooners owned by the hospitality group Crew have mysteriously sank days apart at the Henry Street Basin near Red Hook, prompting concerns over the maintenance of the landmark vessels.

Beloved Former Restaurant Boat Sinks In Red Hook

The historic 1924 racing schooner Pilot, formerly a popular floating restaurant at Pier 6, sank overnight at its maintenance mooring in Red Hook earlier this week.

Opinion: The Case for Letting the BQE Fail - Streetsblog New York City

Community organizers are considering the removal of the BQE as an alternative to expensive repairs on the triple cantilever, drawing parallels to the 1970s dismantling of the West Side Highway.

City hopes to reduce traffic, again, on historic Montague Street strip

The NYC Department of Transportation’s efforts to prioritize pedestrians on Montague Street have sparked debate among business owners and residents over the loss of parking and the aesthetic impact of new infrastructure.

No parking on Columbia Heights, as BQE interim repairs continue

The NYC DOT has suspended parking on Columbia Heights until June 11 to facilitate critical interim joint repairs on the BQE overpass.

The Battle Over the ‘Times Square of Brooklyn’

Dumbo residents have launched a petition demanding a comprehensive crowd-management plan to address the overwhelming influx of tourists in the neighborhood.

📚 Teen Vogue x BPL Banned Books Event at Brooklyn Heights Library | Macaroni KID Brooklyn NW

Teen Vogue and the Brooklyn Public Library are hosting a free conference at the Brooklyn Heights branch to mark Banned Books Week and promote intellectual freedom.

Brooklyn's Biggest Street Fest Atlantic Antic postponed to Oct. 4th

The Atlantic Avenue Local Development Corporation has postponed the 51st annual Atlantic Antic to October 4th due to a nor'easter.

A New Public Bathroom Opens in Columbus Park

Columbus Park gets one of 17 movable, touchless bathrooms in the city's one-year pilot.

JAY-Z Library Card Now Available at Brooklyn Public Library

A limited-edition card celebrating the 25th anniversary of The Blueprint, first-come first-served at BPL branches.

NYC Broadway Week: 2-for-1 tickets through September 20

40 giant buffalo puppets to parade through Brooklyn this Saturday

A herd of 40 life-size buffalo puppets will march from Downtown Brooklyn to Brooklyn Bridge Park this Saturday as part of a public art performance honoring Native American heritage and environmental repair.

RETURN OF THE BUFFALO: TATANKA OWE AKUPI

A massive public art spectacle featuring life-size buffalo puppets will march through Downtown Brooklyn and Lower Manhattan on September 18-19, 2026.

Brooklyn Bridge Park Is Building a New Education Center at 334 Furman St.

The center will include an interactive exhibition and more space for student programs.

Annual Back to School Party on Montague Street this Sunday

The annual Back-to-School Party returns to a car-free Montague Street this Sunday, featuring over 40 free activities for children ages 0 to 12.

Free kid-friendly events this week in Brooklyn (9/7-9/13)

Brooklyn families can enjoy free back-to-school week events including a soccer clinic at Cadman Plaza Park, outdoor pool season finales, and a neighborhood party in Brooklyn Heights.

Free kid-friendly events this week in Brooklyn (6/29-7/5) | Brooklyn Bridge Parents - News, Events and Family Services

Community events across Brooklyn highlight Independence Day celebrations, including ship parades, storytimes, outdoor movies, and free roller skating between June 29 and July 5.

Inside the courtroom: Frank Carone pleads not guilty in Brooklyn federal court

Former mayoral chief of staff Frank Carone pleaded not guilty in Brooklyn federal court Wednesday to charges of bribery and money laundering involving a 2022 emergency shelter contract.

Sail 4th 250 Tall Ships in Brooklyn – what you need to know

New York City will celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with a massive flotilla of international tall ships visiting the Brooklyn waterfront from July 3 to 7, 2026.

NYC public pools opening Saturday, June 27, 2026

New York City outdoor public pools are scheduled to open for the summer season on Saturday, June 27, with daily hours at locations including Red Hook and Brooklyn Navy Yard.

Summer bucket list for families in Brooklyn and beyond

Brooklyn Bridge Parents has released its 2026 summer guide featuring local outdoor movies, public pool openings, and neighborhood festivals across the borough.

4th of July Fireworks 2026 – public viewing, ticket lottery and logistics | Brooklyn Bridge Parents

Macy’s Fireworks will return to the Brooklyn Bridge for the 50th anniversary, requiring lottery tickets for viewing from Brooklyn Bridge Park and the Promenade.

2023 NYC Parks’ free Learn to Swim lottery now open

Recent digital archive updates at Brooklyn Bridge Parents highlight the platform's focus on connecting local families with essential neighborhood services and educational providers.

New York's congressional candidates make final case in last day before primary

New York congressional candidates make their final pitches ahead of the June 2026 primary, testing the political influence of Mayor Zohran Mamdani and his progressive slate.

Free kid-friendly events this week in Brooklyn (6/22-6/28)

Brooklyn Heights Library hosts a therapeutic reading session with a guest dog this Tuesday, part of a local lineup of free activities including park strolls and outdoor cinema.

Baby & Me classes & hangs for new parents in Brooklyn

A new neighborhood guide details local programming for new parents in Brooklyn Heights and DUMBO, featuring library story times, postnatal fitness, and community music classes.

Free ways to watch the World Cup at public viewing events in Brooklyn the week of 6/22-6/28

Brooklyn families can enjoy several free World Cup watch parties and community festivals across Gowanus, DUMBO, and Sunset Park from June 22 back through June 28.

Have a day of family fun in Coney Island

Coney Island’s summer season is in full swing with the opening of the new Coney Escape Room, weekly fireworks, and specialized neighborhood nights for the Brooklyn Cyclones at Maimonides Park.

New Parents 101 – a guide for first-time parents in Brooklyn

A new guide for local parents highlights community resources including DUMBO fitness meetups, Park Slope support groups, and recurring stroller clubs throughout Brooklyn Heights and surrounding neighborhoods.

So much fun at the Kids Soccer Village & World Cup Watch Party in Downtown Brooklyn 6/17/26

Knicks parade details: Street closures, security, and access points to know

New York City is preparing for a massive ticker-tape parade this Thursday to celebrate the Knicks' NBA Championship, with significant street closures and security protocols planned for Lower Manhattan.

NYC Parks’ free Learn to Swim lottery now open

NYC Parks is opening registration for its free Summer 2026 Learn to Swim program for toddlers and children at outdoor public pools across Brooklyn.

Free kid-friendly events this week in Brooklyn (6/8-6/14)

Brooklyn neighborhoods will host a series of family-focused events this week, including outdoor storytimes, birding in Prospect Park, and various cultural celebrations.

So much fun at the Family Dance Jam at Abolitionist Place 6/5/26

Community members of all ages gathered at Downtown Brooklyn’s newest park on Friday, June 5th, for a free collaborative dance party featuring pop and international music.

Where to celebrate Juneteenth in Brooklyn

Community organizations across Brooklyn will host a series of free events from June 12 through June 19 to celebrate Juneteenth with festivals, storytelling, and educational programs.

Free kid-friendly events this week in Brooklyn (6/15-6/21) | Brooklyn Bridge Parents - News, Events and Family Services

Community events across Brooklyn this week include World Cup watch parties, Juneteenth celebrations, and children’s music concerts in neighborhoods like DUMBO, Downtown Brooklyn, and Brooklyn Bridge Park.

Free ways to watch the World Cup with kids this week at public viewing events in Brooklyn (6/13-6/21)

Free community watch parties and family-friendly soccer events are coming to various Brooklyn neighborhoods this week, including Downtown Brooklyn, DUMBO, and Greenpoint.

Brooklyn Heights Community Fridge gets a new home — right across the street

The Brooklyn Heights Community Fridge celebrated its move to 125 Henry Street on Sunday with a ribbon cutting and volunteer sandwich-making event.

Bronx man indicted for hate crime, assault targeting gay victim on Brooklyn subway

Yeshayahuw Carraway was arraigned on Wednesday before Brooklyn Supreme Court Justice Danny Chun on a five-count indictment.

Sudden storm on Saturday caused power outages, tree damage across NYC

A sudden and violent storm on Saturday caused significant property damage, power outages, and a localized water rescue in Brooklyn Heights and Downtown Brooklyn.

Evidence piles up against ex-Knick Chauncey Billups in $9.5M poker fraud case

Former New York Knick Chauncey Billups appeared in Downtown Brooklyn federal court Thursday as prosecutors revealed massive evidence in a $9.5 million high-stakes poker fraud case.

Mayor Mamdani Announces Ticker-Tape Parade and City Hall Ceremony to Celebrate Knicks Championship

Mayor Mamdani has announced a ticker-tape parade and City Hall ceremony for June 18 to celebrate the New York Knicks’ first NBA championship since 1973 after their victory over the San Antonio Spurs.

Don’t miss the Brooklyn Heights Association’s annual Dog Show this Sunday

The Brooklyn Heights Association will host its annual Brooklyn Heights Dog Show this Sunday on Montague Street as part of the local Open Streets program.

The Brooklyn Greek Festival in Brooklyn Heights kicks off Monday, June 1, 2026

The Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral of Brooklyn kicks off its annual Greek street fair on June 1, features daily live music and traditional food.

Paddlewheeler

PS 8: The Emily Warren Roebling School will host its 2026 Paddlewheeler Block Party on Sunday, May 31, featuring local food, tournaments, and various family activities.

Hulu series starring Lindsay Lohan, Shailene Woodley films in Brooklyn Heights

The upcoming Hulu thriller series Count My Lies, starring Lindsay Lohan, Shailene Woodley, and Kit Harington, recently transformed several Brooklyn Heights landmarks for location filming.

Celebrate Amercia’s 250th anniversary with family in NYC

New York City is preparing for family-focused celebrations to mark the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States.

Pediatric urgent care options in Brooklyn and lower Manhattan

A new guide outlines pediatric urgent care and emergency room options for families across Brooklyn, including clinics in Brooklyn Heights, Cobble Hill, and Downtown Brooklyn.

Water sprinklers in our neighborhoods in Brooklyn

A new guide identifies active water sprinklers across Brooklyn neighborhoods, including repaired features at Walt Whitman Park and specific footwear requirements for Downtown Brooklyn’s new splash pad.

Your guide to the FIFA World Cup 2026 in New York

New York City prepares for the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a discounted ticket lottery for residents and several local fan zones across Brooklyn.

Restler, Reynoso to host rally aimed at judges’ parking lot

Borough President Antonio Reynoso and Councilmember Lincoln Restler will host a rally to convert a Supreme Court judges parking lot into parkland as part of a $21 million Columbus Park redesign.

After more than 40 years, the Willowtown Annual Spring Fair still delights

The Willowtown Association celebrated its 40th annual Spring Fair on Willow Place this past Saturday with vintage jazz, traditional games, and community fundraising.

‘Family Spring Fling’ in Brooklyn Heights brings something for everyone

The Family Spring Fling brought free puppet shows, archery, and street activities to Montague Street on Sunday as part of the car-free Open Streets program.

Family-Friendly Guide to Governors Island 2026

Governors Island offers expanded family programming for the 2026 season, including diverse playgrounds, urban farming education, and the return of seasonal festivals accessible via ferry from Brooklyn Bridge Park.

Family-Friendly programming in Brooklyn Bridge Park 2026

Brooklyn Bridge Park has announced its 2026 outdoor season lineup, featuring a World Cup Fan Zone, free kayaking, and the return of popular festivals from May through October.

The Week in Brooklyn: May 11–17, 2026

Macy’s 4th of July fireworks will return to the Brooklyn Bridge for the nation's semiquincentennial as new developments and summer programming launch across the borough.

So much fun at the Spring Fling on Montague 5/17/26

The second annual Spring Fling drew families to Montague Street on May 17 for a day of free activities during the neighborhood Open Streets event.

Memorial Day weekend fun for families in Brooklyn and beyond

New York City kicks off the summer season this Memorial Day weekend with park openings, cultural festivals, and family-friendly activities across Brooklyn and beyond.

Outdoor Festivals and Street Fairs in Brooklyn in 2026

Community calendars are filling up for the 2026 spring season with free festivals, street fairs, and communal events across Brooklyn Heights and DUMBO starting this May.

Free kid-friendly events this week in Brooklyn (5/18-5/24)

Brooklyn Heights and surrounding neighborhoods will host a variety of free family events this week, including educational workshops, puppet shows, and outdoor recreation.

Swim lessons in Brooklyn and lower Manhattan

A new guide identifies multiple swim programs and summer intensives for children and adults across Brooklyn and Lower Manhattan, including sites in Park Slope and Prospect Heights.

The 2026 Macy’s Fireworks are returning to the Brooklyn Bridge for a historic anniversary

Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks will return to the Brooklyn Bridge in 2026 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the show and the U.S. semiquincentennial.

See it: Police rescue woman from 30th-floor ledge of Brooklyn high-rise

NYPD officers rescued a 41-year-old woman from the 30th-floor ledge of the Avalon Willoughby Square high-rise in Downtown Brooklyn following a 911 distress call on Thursday.

Neo-Nazi leader gets 15 years for recruiting violent attacks, including a Santa poison plot

Michail Chkhikvishvili, leader of an international neo-Nazi group, was sentenced in Downtown Brooklyn to 15 years in prison for plotting violent attacks against Jewish communities and racial minorities.

Jury convicts man accused of running secret Chinese spy outpost in New York City

A jury in Brooklyn federal court convicted Lu Jianwang of acting as an illegal agent for China and obstructing justice for his role in establishing a secret police outpost in Manhattan.

Body found floating in East River off Brooklyn Bridge Park’s Pier 5

Authorities are investigating after the body of an unidentified man was discovered floating in the East River near Brooklyn Bridge Park on Friday morning.

Table for 1,300: The Longest Table 2026 brings together a neighborly crowd in Brooklyn Heights

The second annual Longest Table potluck drew an estimated 1,300 participants to Remsen Street and Montague Terrace on Saturday, doubling the attendance of last year's inaugural neighborhood gathering.