Repairs underway at partially collapsed Mott Haven building; residents unsure when they will receive aid
"We don't have no hot water, no gas. They're giving out one hot plate, but for people with a big family, that's not enough," said Agnus Toro, who lives at the Mitchel Houses.
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Crews are working on demolishing the remnants of the NYCHA building that partially collapsed on Wednesday in Mott Haven.
The incident happened at the Mitchel Houses located on Alexander Avenue between East 137th and East 135th streets. Officials say a chimney connected to the boiler collapsed in the complex.
No injuries were reported, according to authorities. Investigators say they are working around the clock to determine the exact cause of the collapse.
NYCHA says over the next few days, they will continue demolition and the removal of bricks in the chimney structure. More than 80 tenants who live on the G and F lines are under a mandatory evacuation.
Tenants watched from the sidewalk as crews raced to install a temporary boiler in an effort to restore hot water to the complex.
"We don't have no hot water, no gas. They're giving out one hot plate, but for people with a big family, that's not enough," said Agnus Toro, who lives at the Mitchel Houses.
A line spanned down the block as residents lined up outside of the Community Center Thursday night to receive an update from NYCHA on the status of repairs.
"What are they gonna do? Hide everything under the carpet one more time? One more time? We are tired of that," said Awilda Miranda.
The community center on Alexander Avenue remains open as a resource hub for those impacted by the collapse.
NYCHA says the damage appears to be contained to the outside chimney area and that ongoing repairs are expected to disrupt the complex for the coming days. There is no timeline for when displaced tenants will be able to return home.
"It's stressful, it's stressful," said Donna Jackson.
NYCHA is encouraging residents who are in need of additional assistance to call the Customer Contact Center (CCC) at 718-707-7771.
