State Opens Disaster Aid After Red Hook Fire With Nine Million Dollars in Damage

By Y.M. Lowy

BoroPark24 reported on the five alarm fire that tore through a Red Hook warehouse nearly two months ago, destroying the workspaces and inventories of artists and small business owners. This week brought a major update for those still trying to rebuild.

State officials announced that homeowners, renters and business owners affected by the blaze are now eligible for low interest disaster loans. The U.S. Small Business Administration reviewed the damage and estimated losses at more than nine million dollars. The fire did not only destroy the main warehouse. It also spread to nearby buildings that housed independent art studios, leaving many unable to reach years of work long after the flames were out.

Gov. Kathy Hochul said the state secured a physical disaster declaration for Kings County, along with Queens, Richmond and New York counties. The declaration makes residents eligible for affordable loans to help repair property and stabilize their lives.

Businesses and nonprofits can apply for loans of up to two million dollars to cover losses and maintain operations during the rebuilding process.