Roosevelt Avenue Coalition Cites Persistent Issues, Calls for More Action Despite Ongoing Operations

The Restore Roosevelt Ave coalition, led by former Councilman Hiram Monserrate, is intensifying its demands for a "clean and safe Roosevelt Avenue" in Queens, asserting that current efforts fall short. Monserrate stated on social media, > "The Restore Roosevelt Ave coalition demands a clean and safe Roosevelt Avenue and our entire community, nothing less!" This call comes amidst ongoing initiatives aimed at addressing quality-of-life concerns in the bustling corridor.

The demand follows the launch of "Operation Restore Roosevelt" in October 2024 by Mayor Eric Adams and Governor Kathy Hochul, a multi-agency effort to combat issues such as prostitution, illegal vending, and human trafficking. This operation saw the deployment of hundreds of NYPD officers and State Troopers to the area, with officials initially reporting a decrease in crime. The initiative aimed to address a "wave of lawlessness" that residents and business owners had long decried.

Despite these governmental actions, the Restore Roosevelt Ave coalition maintains that significant problems persist. Coalition spokesperson Rosa Sanchez and Monserrate have highlighted the continued operation of alleged brothels and the visible presence of street workers. Monserrate has publicly stated that the operation has "fallen short," pointing to identified brothel locations and questioning why padlock orders have not been fully enforced.

However, "Operation Restore Roosevelt" has also drawn criticism from other community groups, including DecrimNY and Make the Road New York. These organizations argue that the enforcement-heavy approach disproportionately targets vulnerable populations, including sex workers and immigrants, and constitutes "performative policing." Critics suggest that such crackdowns displace rather than solve underlying issues, potentially pushing illicit activities into other neighborhoods.

The coalition has escalated its concerns, alleging that organized crime syndicates are deeply entrenched on Roosevelt Avenue, facilitating human trafficking, drug sales, and the distribution of fraudulent documents. In April 2025, the Restore Roosevelt Avenue Coalition formally called upon the FBI and DEA to initiate investigations and take enforcement action. They described the situation as having evolved into a "gangland," with local police efforts proving insufficient against sophisticated criminal networks.

As the debate continues, the Restore Roosevelt Ave coalition pledges ongoing vigilance and protests until a lasting resolution is achieved for the community. The situation on Roosevelt Avenue remains a complex challenge, highlighting the differing perspectives on how best to ensure public safety and improve quality of life in the vibrant Queens district.