Business & Economy Active Updated Aug 18, 2026
Flatbush's ICE-scared storefronts
A Flatbush-Nostrand Junction Business Improvement District survey found 70% of merchants reporting less foot traffic over the past year, with half of respondents saying customers explicitly cited fear of ICE. The neighborhood is home to roughly 20% of New York City's Caribbean community, and BID officials say some businesses have lost up to half their revenue, threatening their ability to pay rent.
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Aug 18, 2026 Latest
A Flatbush-Nostrand Junction Business Improvement District survey found 70% of responding merchants reported less foot traffic over the past year, with half saying customers explicitly cited ICE concerns. Fleur de Lis Beauty & Esthetics co-owner Wendy Jules said daily walk-ins have dropped sharply since late May, and BID director Kenneth Mbonu said some merchants report revenue down as much as half.
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