Man on the Street: How're You Feeling About IKEA?

As the under-construction IKEA looms ever larger over the Red Hook waterfront, we asked a few folks how they’re feeling about the store opening in the neighborhood.

“Anything different is going to be good for the neighborhood. It’s a small community and you usually need to go out of it to get stuff. So any time things come to us, like Fine Fare or Fairway, it’s great.” Annmarie; has lived in Red Hook for 10 years


“It’s going to be crazy from a congestion point of view. I used to go to the IKEA on Long Island, and out there they’re equipped for all the traffic going in. But I just don’t see where the traffic arteries are going to come from here.” Jerry; has had a business in neighborhood for 15 years

“I think it’s sad but inevitable. I’m from England so I’m not really privy to the history of gentrification or development here, but it’s sad to me to go and see the blue and yellow where the sugar factory used to be.” Jenny; has lived in Red Hook for 3 years


“It’s going to be a terrific help for this neighborhood. Anyone who’s against the IKEA hasn’t been here long enough to remember the bad old days.” Marty; has lived in the neighborhood for 42 years