Residents frustrated as RVs invade Red Hook streets in 2024

In Red Hook, Brooklyn, residents have raised concerns over the prevalence of illegally parked RVs and campers that have occupied their streets for over a year. Local resident Frank Falcinelli expressed frustration over enforcement disparities, noting that while regular cars face strict regulations regarding parking and inspections, RVs largely evade these rules. Some residents have reported that certain RVs remain parked for months without movement, which poses safety and sanitation issues, especially near community spaces like Red Hook Park. Queens Councilman Robert Holden has recognized the issue and is advocating for new legislation that would treat RVs similarly to commercial vehicles, restricting their parking duration to no more than three hours during the day and prohibiting overnight parking. Meanwhile, the NYPD has issued substantial parking violations and is aware of the ongoing problem. To address the situation, the 76th Precinct has conducted operations to remove some RVs and assist residents with resources. However, the presence of these vehicles continues to create unease among locals, especially compared to other areas of New York City where such situations are not commonly observed. The Department of Sanitation is also engaged, planning initiatives aimed at tackling abandoned and ghost vehicles, further emphasizing the ongoing efforts to remedy the situation. As local residents continue to voice their concerns, the proposed changes in legislation may lead to an improved environment for both community members and visitors who frequent the Red Hook area. The issue remains a priority for local officials and law enforcement as they seek to strike a balance between enforcement and community needs.