PDT and Crif Dogs have been closed since Sunday after a nor’easter on Sept. 26-27 caused trees to topple over their backyard on St. Mark’s Place between Avenue A and First Avenue, according to Jeff Bell, an owner of the businesses.
Businesses in limbo as trees threaten safety
Bell described in an Instagram post that a neighbor’s tree fell into another neighbor’s tree, leaving both leaning against the building behind the businesses. “They’re both now resting against the building behind me, and in a very precarious position that seems like they could fall,” he said. The situation has kept both businesses closed, with Bell stating, “I don’t feel that it’s safe for our team to be working in these conditions.”
Removing the trees requires a crane, and Bell said the businesses are waiting for neighboring landlords to initiate the process. “We’re at the mercy of our neighboring landlords to get this tree removed,” he said. The delay has forced Bell to launch a GoFundMe to support employees during the closure, with 100% of funds directed to staff. “This week has been uncertainty for them,” he said, adding, “I know how important it is to be able to show up to work and make money, especially at the end of the month.”
Did You Know?
Crane required to remove trees before businesses reopen
Bell emphasized the businesses will remain closed until the trees are removed, noting the process “is taking a while because they have to have a crane to extract the tree.” He described the GoFundMe as a temporary measure to support staff, stating, “This is not easy. This is not fun. I don’t like to go hat in hand, but I will go hat in hand for the team.”
Fallen trees force St. Mark's Place businesses to close
Why are PDT and Crif Dogs closed?
The businesses closed after a nor’easter on Sept. 26-27 caused trees to fall onto their backyard on St. Mark’s Place, creating a safety hazard that has kept them shuttered since Sunday.
Who is responsible for removing the trees?
The neighboring landlords who own the trees are responsible for their removal, according to Jeff Bell, who stated the businesses are “at the mercy of our neighboring landlords” to initiate the process.
How is the owner supporting employees during the closure?
Jeff Bell launched a GoFundMe to cover wages lost during the closure, pledging that 100% of funds raised will go directly to staff. He described the situation as “uncertainty for them” and emphasized the importance of income, particularly at the end of the month.
How might local businesses manage similar risks in the future?