
CITYWIDE — NYC CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER Matthew Fraser announced Tuesday the launch of a first-of-its-kind Emergency Communications Vehicle, dubbed ECV-1, that marks a major expansion of the city’s public safety capabilities. ECV-1, created by retrofitting an existing city-owned vehicle, will ensure uninterrupted connectivity to the city’s first responder agencies, including 911 call centers, during large planned events and actual disaster situations, Fraser said in a release.
The vehicle can serve as a mobile technology center and command post for first responders, and can extend network and radio connectivity to city, state and federal partners during emergencies, Fraser said. ECV-1 will deploy for the first time at the Thanksgiving Day Parade, assisting with NYC Emergency Management communications and drone operations.
Fire Commissioner Robert Tucker and Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol praised the vehicle, calling it a “tremendous asset” that could make the difference in an emergency.
✰✰✰












SUNSET PARK — “As a resident of Marine Park, one of the great surprises I found biking around Industry City and visiting Japan Village was to discover Bush Terminal Park. I continue to be amazed at the serene hideaways that the city offers in some of the busiest places — and, still, with an iconic view.”

BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — ‘A miracle that no one was killed …’ That’s what neighbors are saying about the collapse of the Hotel St. George marquee. Shown in this photograph are workmen beginning the removal and repair of the historic, old neon sign at the corner, referencing a relic of Brooklyn Heights’ past: the St. George Hotel.

ATLANTIC AVENUE — Exhausted shopper with cluster of bags and goods from mall at Boerum Place stops to look at huge construction site across the street. “Is that REALLY going to be a jail??” Her male companion is reassuring, “Nothing like Rikers … this is 21st Century.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — Overheard in line at one of most popular pastry outlets on Montague Street: “Hope I can get them into a camp …” A mother with two pre-schoolers in tow was showing a friend the Dodge Y flyer for Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 18.