New York City residents in the neighborhood of Jackson Heights, Queens, are expressing frustration with the sudden rise of illegal street markets on Roosevelt Avenue. These markets, which have attracted vendors selling a variety of goods, including stolen items and even engaging in prostitution, have caused concern among local business owners.
Milton Reyes, manager at Mi Farmacia, a local pharmacy on Roosevelt Avenue, highlighted the growing issue of illegal vendors creating chaos in the area. Reyes described the vendors as a nuisance, engaging in disruptive behavior such as smoking, drinking, and leaving behind garbage. He emphasized the out-of-control nature of the situation, with vendors taking up space on the streets, hindering residents’ ability to move freely.
Reyes expressed worries about the safety of the neighborhood, particularly for elderly individuals who rely on car services to access medical appointments. The presence of illegal markets on the street has made it difficult for these individuals to navigate the area, affecting businesses like Mi Farmacia and others in the community.
The influx of vendors selling a range of products, from household items to electronics, has raised concerns among local store owners. Claudia Canizlez, manager of a discount store on Lot-Less near Mi Farmacia, noted the negative impact on businesses as customers opt to purchase items from illegal vendors at lower prices.
As the situation escalates, Reyes predicts that warmer weather will only exacerbate the issue, potentially leading to a further proliferation of illegal markets on Roosevelt Avenue. Despite occasional police intervention, the vendors quickly return to the streets to resume their activities, causing ongoing disruptions for residents and businesses alike.
The challenges posed by these illegal markets extend beyond economic impacts, with concerns about safety and cleanliness also at the forefront of the community’s frustrations. Residents and business owners alike are calling for solutions to address the growing problem and restore a sense of security and order to the neighborhood.
In the midst of these challenges, long-time residents like Rafael and Carlos, who have been in the country for over 20 years, find themselves competing with newer vendors for business on Roosevelt Avenue. The complex dynamics of the situation highlight the broader issues facing communities grappling with the repercussions of illegal street markets and the need for concerted efforts to address these concerns effectively.