GothamToGo Features BQE Makeover

Atlantic Avenue BID + Thrive Collective & NYC DOT Revamp BQE Underpass with New Murals

“Constructed throughout the late 1940s, Robert Moses’ BQE displaced thousands of people, severed the connection between Atlantic Avenue and the waterfront, and created a car centric interchange in the midst of a vibrant pedestrian-heavy street. Seven artists were selected by Thrive Collective to build on the themes to interpret and interrogate this complicated past, while celebrating the future of this major NYC thoroughfare.

“The Atlantic Avenue Murals celebrate the people who make their neighborhood, and a neighborhood that shapes its people. Along the avenue, neighbors find common ground and cultivate community befitting our great city. The artwork highlights the gateway’s ebullient use today as a gateway for families, dogs, shoppers and visitors to Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn Bridge Park, and the ferry at Pier 6. …

“’This transformative project establishes a venerable gateway to Brooklyn’s Atlantic Avenue,’ said Kelly Carroll, Executive Director of the Atlantic Avenue BID. ‘Not only is it a collection of stunning public art, it increases foot traffic to our small, family-owned businesses, improves perceptions of safety with its improved lighting, and serves as a reclamation of public space for the community, by the community.’

“’Thrive Collective creates hope and opportunity through public art in NYC. It’s our pleasure to collaborate with the BID and DOT to install murals in this historic location that celebrate the people who fill this community with hope and provide opportunities for their neighbors.’ said Thrive Collective Executive Director Jeremy Del Rio.”

Full article.