Brooklyn Hotel Marquee Collapses Near Subway Entrance, Prompting Investigation

Marquee Collapse at St. George Hotel

• 💥 A 10x20ft marquee sign, bearing the name "St. George Hotel," unexpectedly collapsed near the Clark Street subway station in Brooklyn Heights.
• ⚠️ Fortunately, the incident occurred on a Sunday morning around 7:00 a.m., preventing injuries, but concerns were raised about what could have happened during a weekday commute.

Investigation and Building History

• 🔍 An investigation has been launched to assess the condition of the remaining marquee and the building's structural integrity.
• 🏗️ The building department cited a poorly maintained structural beam as a contributing factor to the collapse.
• 🏢 While no longer a hotel, the building reportedly houses college dorms for multiple schools.

Maintenance Concerns and Responsibility

• 🗣️ Council member Lincoln Wrestler had previously voiced concerns about the building's lack of maintenance, noting a maintenance agreement from 1915.
• 🏢 Current tenant EHS (Educational Housing Services) stated they are a tenant and are equally concerned, while a reporter noted the space is rarely cleaned and struggles with heat.
• 🛠️ The reporter characterized the landlord as not having invested in or properly maintained the property.

Subway Station Closures

• 🚇 Both entrances to the Clark Street subway station were closed following the collapse, requiring commuters to find alternate routes.
• 🚦 This closure significantly impacted the morning commute for many.