Loss of a Good Friend and Neighbor. It is with great sadness that we report the death of a revered and long time neighbor, and my brother, Larry Condon, who died peacefully at home on December 30, 2024. Larry moved to 11th Street in the early 1980s and became an energetic advocate as a shareholder at 16 East 11th Street where he resided, in the block and the wider neighborhood. A supporter and active member of the East 11th Street Block Association, many changes to improve the quality of life on our block can be attributed to his ideas and energetic support over many years.
His philanthropic leadership of the LuEsther T. Mertz Charitable Trust enriched the lives of thousands of New Yorkers, with particular interests centered on The New York Botanical Garden, The Public Theater and The Joyce Theater. Larry became a beloved friend of many who will remember him by his warmth and curiosity, his charm and charismatic presence — and his bright smile.
Care of our Trees. In February two Board Members inspected the 26 trees that we care for with an arborist from Urban Arborists (UA). The Report from UA following the inspection cited only minimal pruning and suggested waiving pruning until the next scheduled evaluation.
More Trees on University Place. We inquired of UA about the possibility of having new trees planted along the treeless area from 80-84 University Place. UA applied to Parks; however the Parks Department responded that the request could not be fulfilled at this time due to the scaffolding in place. We will follow up when the scaffolding is removed.
City Rats. In recent weeks neighbors have reported seeing rats brazenly scurrying around on 11th Street during the day. Rats have also been digging holes along foundations and in planters near building fronts and scattering dirt around the planters. The seasonal change is likely one reason for the uptick in the rat population. Disturbances from the demolition and construction stir up the rat population. Outdoor dining added a new food source for rodents. Most rats live In burrows along buildings and basement areas. One burrow can support a small colony of 8-12 rats. Urban gardens are hospitable to rats because they provide food water and safety.
New York City employs a multi-pronged approach to rat control, combining traditional methods with new initiatives. But each building needs to have a good program in place to help combat the rat population.
To Managing Agents & Boards of Larger Buildings & to Private Residential Owners:
Seek the help of a professional pest control company. Increase the frequency of visits if needed for seasonal upticks in the rat population.
The best rat management program focuses on prevention. Remove sources of food, water and shelter. Store garbage in hard plastic rat-resistant containers with tight fitting lids. Remove clutter. Maintain a clean environment indoors and outdoors.