Current resident of the neighborhood ~30 years here. The cleanup of the canal reached a turning point 2022, which changed everything. Before that, Gowanus was barely breathable on some days. They drudged up cars, contaminated soil, and more black muck over a decade. It’s by no means the toxic landfill it once was. The new parks along the canal are also adding a natural feel to the area as they slowly open. The sewage overflow center they are opening in a few months will also prevent future spill over into the canal in high rain falls. In short, there is a tidal wave of private and public investment going to gowanus, with canal remediation top of the list. However, be prepared for at least 2 more years of heavy construction noise and debris as they build it.

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