Brooklyn’s biggest stories of the week are in, from the borough digging out after a historic blizzard to a new sustainable design contest for local teens and the expansion of Whole Foods in Williamsburg. Plus, New York City schools navigate staffing challenges following the storm, a former hospital site in Cobble Hill sees a multi-million dollar sale, and more community and real estate news. Read on for the latest!
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Brooklyn Digs Out from Historic Blizzard
After a historic blizzard paralyzed Brooklyn with nearly two feet of snow on February 23, New York City celebrated its first traditional snow day in seven years before facing a difficult reopening on Tuesday. Despite Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s push to resume in-person learning for essential services, the district struggled with a low 63% student attendance rate and a critical staffing shortage, as 12,000 teachers called out due to travel hurdles and childcare needs.
Sunlight Development buys former LICH site in Cobble Hill for $29.5M
Sunlight Development, a Queens-based real estate firm, has purchased a vacant development site at 350 Hicks St. in Cobble Hill for $29.5 million. The property was acquired from Madison Realty Capital and formerly served as a parking garage for the closed Long Island College Hospital.
While the new owners have not yet disclosed their specific plans for the site, previous proposals for the lot included the construction of two condominium buildings totaling approximately 150 units. This transaction marks the latest chapter for the property, which was once part of a larger residential assemblage sold in phases over the last several years.
Public records expose systemic safety failures and unvetted staffing at Bright Horizons
Recent public records reveal a series of alarming safety lapses at Bright Horizons facilities, including unvetted staff and serious incidents involving child neglect and injury. These findings highlight a recurring pattern of health violations that suggest a lack of proper oversight at the childcare giant. Such systemic issues raise significant concerns regarding the company’s extensive financial contracts with both corporate partners and New York City’s education departments. Read more here.
National Grid and Brooklyn Public Library Partner for Teen Conservation Design Contest
During their mid-winter break, teenagers aged 14 to 18 participated in the “Energy in Engineering” contest, a joint initiative by the Brooklyn Public Library and National Grid. The week-long program encouraged students to explore sustainability by creating original digital art, animations, and games focused on energy conservation.
Organizers noted that the competition aims to cultivate a new wave of local scientists and engineers through the library’s various teen tech centers across the borough. By blending STEM education with creative technology, the partnership provides hands-on experience in building a more environmentally conscious future.
Erudite Preschool Expands to Boerum Hill
Erudite Preschool, a premium Russian immersion daycare and early childhood center, is expanding to Boerum Hill, Brooklyn. The school has secured a 4,000-square-foot ground-floor space at 526 Baltic Street (The Post House), with an option to double its footprint to 8,000 square feet in the future. Known for its bilingual curriculum and focus on cognitive development, the new facility will serve children ranging from 6 months to 5 years old. The school is slated to open its doors in September 2026.
Whole Foods Market Expands Brooklyn Presence with Official Launch of Williamsburg Daily Shop
Whole Foods Market has officially expanded its presence in Brooklyn with the introduction of its smaller-format “Daily Shop” concept in Williamsburg. Located at the corner of Grand and Humboldt Streets, this nearly 7,900-square-foot Whole Foods Market Daily Shop provides a curated selection of fresh produce, prepared meals, and locally sourced goods.
Experience CAMPTOPIA: The Ultimate Summer Camp Fair Saturday 2/28
Brooklyn Bridge Parents will host CAMPTOPIA, an interactive summer camp fair, this Saturday, February 28, from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Brooklyn Basketball Training Center. This immersive event features over 35 programs and 30 free activities, including STEM workshops, soccer, and music exploration, allowing children to experience camps firsthand. Parents can meet directly with directors to explore 2026 enrollment options and access exclusive early-bird registration deals. Attendees are reminded to wear comfortable footwear, as high heels are strictly prohibited on the facility’s basketball courts. Free RSVP here.
Celebrating 30 Years of Pokémon at the Brooklyn Public Library’s Adams Street branch
On Friday, we partnered with the Brooklyn Public Library in DUMBO for an action-packed afternoon of trading, crafting, and community. Fans of all ages gathered to exchange expert tips, swap cards, and create custom Pokémon hats to celebrate three decades of the iconic franchise.
