East Harlem Businesses Struggle as MTA Delays Relocation Assistance

East Harlem, NY — Business owners in East Harlem are voicing frustration over delays in financial compensation and relocation assistance from the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). The MTA’s planned subway expansion, part of a $7.7 billion project, is forcing several longtime businesses to close or relocate as new subway stops are constructed along Second Avenue.

Lu Nicaj, the owner of Eagle Tile, has run his tile-construction supply shop for 30 years. He is worried about his shop’s future as he faces closure due to the MTA’s plans. “They’ve left me hanging,” said the 59-year-old. “I don’t know the future. I’m keeping my fingers crossed, but I do not know what’s gonna happen.”

The MTA began the eviction process in August, leaving little room for negotiation for affected tenants and landowners. Many local businesses, including Nicaj’s, claim they have received insufficient support and communication from the MTA. Nicaj has already spent $100,000 relocating materials from a nearby lot to his shop, but he has not heard from the MTA about reimbursement.

“I’m gonna be in debt and a hole for a while until I pull myself out,” Nicaj shared, expressing concern about his inability to store essential materials. “They didn’t promise me anything. They said they’ll see what they can do.”

The anxiety among business owners is palpable. One deli owner is being forced out three years into a 10-year lease after the MTA’s intervention. “I’m just wasting my time there,” he said about viewing alternative locations arranged by the MTA, adding that he has started searching for options on his own.

Diop, who owns the Touba African Store, faces eviction after 14 years in the community. He mentioned that the MTA showed him a property he liked three months ago but has since failed to follow up. “I feel like I’m in limbo,” he stated, highlighting the uncertainty many are experiencing as they await responses from the MTA.

The MTA has yet to comment on the ongoing concerns of the displaced businesses.