Opinions & observations: The path to recovery begins at Industry City, and small businesses will lead the way
In March of 2019, more than 60 small businesses from the Sunset Park community wrote to their local councilmember to express their strong support for the rezoning of Industry City.
Some were tenants on the Industry City campus and others were located on nearby commercial strips. They included tech startups, small manufacturers, artisans, barbers, bakers, furniture makers, industrial suppliers and the best taco place in southwest Brooklyn.
And while each had a unique and moving story about growing their businesses in Sunset Park, they were all completely united in their belief that Industry City’s success was directly linked to their own.
Now, as diverse businesses like Sahadi Fine Foods, Diaz Electric, Lilac Chocolates and King of Kings Barber Shop ponder a future that has never looked more uncertain or unsettled, the City Council has an opportunity to send a message to them and similar entrepreneurs throughout Brooklyn and New York City.