Makeshift Bed-Stuy aquarium removed after DEP officials pour cement around hydrant
BEDFORD STUYVESANT, Brooklyn (WABC) -- There's a new development in the ongoing saga surrounding a makeshift aquarium under a leaky fire hydrant in Bedford Stuyvesant, Brooklyn.
After firefighters shut off the hydrant earlier this week, community members attempted to rebuild the pond just 24 hours later.
However, officials with the Department of Environmental Protection stopped by to check on the hydrant and determined it was unsafe due to its leak.
Officials then fixed the leak by pouring cement around the hydrant, permanently eliminating the pond.
In a statement, the DEP officials said, "We're looking forward to working with community members to find an appropriate alternative location for this impromptu gem, including in a community garden half a block away."
They said the decision to fill the aquarium and fix the leak will make sure that the hydrant doesn't freeze over and become unusable.
The "Bed-Stuy Aquarium," quickly became a beloved landmark for residents in the neighborhood and visitors who saw it on social media.
Residents created the homemade goldfish tank after a leaky fire hydrant created a puddle on the sidewalk.
It was on display for the neighborhood to enjoy at the intersection of Tompkins Avenue and Hancock Street and residents wanted it to become a permanent fixture in the community.
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