Census of Local Businesses - Updates

Winter Lights Contest

Nostrand Avenue Winter Lights Contest Highlights Need for Merchant Support

The Crown Heights North Association and Brooklyn Community Board 8's Economic Development Committee recently launched the Nostrand Avenue North Winter Lights Contest, inviting merchants between Eastern Parkway and Atlantic Avenue to brighten the corridor with festive storefront displays. While the contest drew limited participation, it sparked important conversations about how the community can better support local businesses.

Of the four merchants who entered, two stores made decorating efforts that earned them honorable mentions from a panel of local resident judges. Rather than indicating a lack of interest, the limited participation revealed a more pressing story: small business owners along Nostrand Avenue are stretched thin.

      12.1 Closed store on Nostrand Avenue

"The holiday lights competition was well-intentioned, but participation and engagement were more limited than hoped," explained the North Nostrand Avenue Merchants Association. "This was not due to a lack of interest or effort, but rather reflects the reality many small business owners are facing as they work to balance day-to-day operations in a challenging economic climate. Rising rents, higher utility costs, and increasing inventory prices mean many merchants are focused first on keeping their doors open and serving customers."

The Merchants Association emphasized that what business owners need most are customers, visibility, and practical support. They encouraged neighbors to shop local, noting that Nostrand Avenue offers everything from new coffee shops and restaurants to essential services like pharmacies, salons, tailors, and fitness studios.

The Crown Heights North Association acknowledged that while extensive outreach was conducted, the experience highlighted opportunities for stronger partnerships. "While disappointed that only a few businesses participated, we are hopeful that our greater involvement in the future will help build a stronger and more committed business and community organization partnership," their statement read.

Both organizations recognized the vital role local businesses play in maintaining neighborhood character and keeping economic resources circulating within the community. The Merchants Association also thanked Bridge Street Development Corporation for its ongoing efforts to connect Nostrand Avenue merchants to meaningful resources and support.

Looking ahead, organizers view the contest as a starting point rather than a conclusion. As the Crown Heights North Association stated, "CHNA looks forward to working with community partners to support local businesses." The message is clear: keeping Nostrand Avenue vibrant requires not just special events, but sustained community engagement and, most importantly, customers walking through the doors of neighborhood businesses every day.

– Lisa Maldonado