Park Slope Neighbors spoke, Commerce Bank listened.
Faced with the concerted opposition of 1,400 residents and merchants who signed our petition asking them to reconsider their plans for a three-lane drive-thru and a big, glowing, suburban-style sign, Commerce Bank has unveiled a vastly improved redesign for the building they plan to erect at Fifth Avenue and First Street.
The new building will take a much more traditional form, featuring red brick and large windows, and will maintain the street wall. It will incorporate a small parking lot sited behind the building, with an entrance on First Street and exit on Fifth Avenue, and will have parking for bicycles and a drinking fountain for thirsty dogs.
Thanks to all of you who signed the petition, and especially those of you who contributed your time and expertise. Thanks also to the community groups whose support was instrumental: the First Street Block Association, Fifth Avenue Committee, Fifth Avenue Merchants Association, Fifth Avenue BID, Park Slope Civic Council and Community Board 6. And thanks, too, to State Senator Velmanette Montgomery, now-retired Congressman Major Owens, State Assembly Member Joan Millman, and City Council Member Bill de Blasio for standing with the community.
