The Junction is one of Brooklyn’s primary commercial areas outside of downtown. It has been an important hub for commerce, education, transportation and entertainment. The three-way intersection known as “the Junction” has been transformed into a large mall with various conveniences and retail options. As it is the junction of two major thoroughfares, it is the “gateway” to the southern half of Br
ooklyn; and the primary local shopping area for thousands of residents of surrounding private homes and apartment buildings. It is also an important transfer point from two subway lines, seven bus lines and several private “dollar” vans. The corridor also serves Brooklyn College’s students, faculty and staff. Flatbush Avenue is lined with shops that seem to offer just about everything. Hair salons, pharmacies, banks and restaurants with local West Indian fare. The commercial vacancy rate is approx. 6%. It has a natural harmony of small and large businesses in retail and professional services and restaurants. Flatbush is one of the most unique neighborhoods in New York, both for its residents and housing stock. Flatbush has many six and seven story brick apartment buildings, but also boasts row houses and even a few high rises. One gem of Flatbush is the area of South Midwood, with its Victorian row houses and Colonial revival homes. There are also single-family homes on the tree-lined strip of Flatbush between Nostrand and New York Avenues.
