By Forum Staff
Community groups and State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Woodhaven) on Tuesday updated Richmond Hill residents on efforts to address safety, sanitation, and infrastructure concerns under the Babbage and Bessemer Street train trestle.
Addabbo said that cops remain focused on ticketing and enforcement to discourage illegal activity in the area. Additionally, the City Department of Sanitation has increased its monitoring and cleanup efforts to curb illegal dumping under the trestle, which runs from 84th Avenue to Hillside Avenue.
Addabbo has secured funding for the installation of two security cameras under the trestle, a measure aimed at improving public safety and deterring vandalism. Additionally, funding has been allocated to Shmira Patrol to ensure an increased security presence in the area.
Photo Courtesy of Sen. Addabbo
“Richmond Hill deserves clean, safe, and well-maintained infrastructure,” Sen. Addabbo said.
Addabbo said he’s also calling on the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to address the deteriorating conditions of the trestle, including much-needed repairs and repainting.
Addabbo called the trestle a “vital structure” and heaped praise on groups such as Friends of Babbage and Bessemer and the Richmond Hill Historical Society for their ongoing advocacy.
“These continued steps show our commitment to making real, lasting improvements under the trestle,” the senator said. “By working with law enforcement, DSNY, community groups, and the MTA, we are addressing critical safety concerns, improving sanitation, and ensuring that this area is maintained and respected. Richmond Hill deserves clean, safe, and well-maintained infrastructure, and I will continue to push for progress until these necessary improvements are realized.”
