Block Pride cleanup on Overlook Place

(Newburgh) - The City of Newburgh sponsored its final Block Pride cleanup of the year this past Saturday. Overlook Place in Washington Heights from Liberty Street to Monument Street was closed to allow residents, Department of Public Works employees and volunteers, an opportunity to thoroughly clean the block.
Residents on the street were encouraged by City departments to join with Police, Fire, and Department of Public Works in the clean up effort. At the conclusion of the cleanup, a sign stating, “This Street is Part of Block Pride Newburgh” was placed to commemorate the neighborhood’s participation in the program.

“This is a good time for neighborhood residents to clean up their yards and alleyways,” said Community Outreach Officer Cheryle Branson, who coordinates the program. With the sidewalks filled at 9:00 AM with old furniture, mattresses and other unwanted debris that was accumulating, it was obvious that the residents of the block were well prepared for the cleanup. “Our goal is to eliminate unhealthy and unsanitary conditions and create a more desirable environment to live in,” Branson stated.

The Overlook Place cleanup ties in to previous successful Block Pride cleanups in the adjoining neighborhoods. “Prior Block Pride events have been very successful, and the residents have maintained the results,” Branson noted. “Neighborhood watch programs are being started, and people are feeling and ‘ownership’ for their blocks. These small programs have made the big picture of a revitalized Newburgh closer to reality for many, and I have been proud to work with all the residents who participated.”

Pictured Above: From Left to Right Newburgh Mayor Nick Valentine lends a helping hand at the Block Pride Event. Newburgh DPW workers Joe Fazio and Louis Carrasquillo load up the truck during the season's final block Pride Cleanup on Overlook Place.