NYCHA Residents Concerned Over Dark Smoke from Temporary Boiler at Amsterdam Houses

Resident Concerns Over Boiler Smoke

• 💨 Residents at the Amsterdam Houses NYCHA complex are expressing concerns about dark smoke emanating from a temporary boiler.
• 🏠 The smoke is described as a black soot-like substance that accumulates inside homes, leading to increased cleaning.
• 😷 Residents report health issues, including sinus irritation and worries about respiratory conditions like sarcoidosis.

Official Response and Safety Assurances

• 🏢 The temporary boiler was installed in October 2024 as part of a nearly $50 million heating system upgrade.
• ⚠️ City officials and NYCHA state that the smoke is safe and that inspectors found no smoke issues upon responding to complaints.
• 🗣️ NYCHA assures that they work with city agencies to ensure compliance and regularly meet with residents.

Ongoing Worries and Future Outlook

• 📈 Residents have noticed a significant increase in the frequency and amount of smoke in recent weeks, coinciding with colder weather.
• 💨 Assemblywoman Linda Rosenthal was assured by NYCHA's CEO that the emissions are just steam vapor and that the boiler would be inspected.
• 🗓️ The temporary boiler is expected to be removed by summer.
• 😟 Despite assurances, residents remain worried about the daily exposure and the unknown long-term health effects.