I just want to alert folks that there has been a rat infestation on 58th Avenue between 59th Street and Grand Avenue. The offices of Assemblyman Barnwell and Councilman Holden have reached out to the Department of Health to report the concern. The agency did an inspection and the front of all the properties on the strip will be abated, but it will be up to the homeowners to take appropriate action in their homes and rear yards. We have no idea what is causing the infestation because there is no construction in the area that might have disturbed their nests.
In addition to 58th Avenue, rats have been spotted in the vicinity of 61st Street as well as in the vicinity of the railroad tracks in Elmhurst. Although there haven't been any sightings, northern Maspeth has been contending with drilling as as a result of the installation of new gas lines and this may stir up a problem.
Check your yards and look for any holes. This is a telltale sign you have a problem. Make sure you have tight lids on your garbage cans. Rats do go into homes for food, water and shelter and can cause extensive damage.
No matter where you live, we're asking folks to keep an eye out and report any activity immediately!
Roe Daraio, President
COMET Civic Association
www.cometcivic.com