Brooklyn residents transform leaky fire hydrant into a makeshift aquarium

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In a recent story out of Brooklyn, New York, a unique and unconventional use of a sidewalk tree pit caught the attention of residents and city officials alike. Two longtime Brooklyn residents, Hajj-Malik Lovick and a friend, came up with the idea of creating a makeshift aquarium in a flooded sidewalk tree pit. The idea was sparked by the constant flooding of the area due to a leaky fire hydrant, which provided a perfect opportunity to create a unique and interesting attraction in the neighbourhood.

After fortifying the edges of the tree bed with rocks and bricks, the duo purchased 100 common goldfish from a pet store and introduced them to the shallow basin. The sight of the small fish swimming in the makeshift aquarium quickly became a neighbourhood curiosity, drawing visitors who dubbed it „the Hancock Street Bed-Stuy Aquarium.“ The project garnered attention online, with videos and news stories circulating about the fish pit.

However, the project also drew concern from city officials and backlash from animal rights advocates. In the early hours of one morning, two neighbourhood residents, Emily Campbell and Max David, carried out a rescue mission to save about 30 fish from the two-inch deep waters. The rescue mission sparked a debate about gentrification in the historically Black neighbourhood, as the area has seen an influx of young white residents in recent years.

Campbell, a self-described fish enthusiast, expressed concern for the well-being of the fish and worked to rehome the rescued fish, keeping many of them in tanks inside her apartment. Despite the controversy surrounding the project, those involved in the sidewalk experiment believe they have enriched the neighbourhood and provided a better life for the goldfish. They feed the fish three times a day and take shifts watching over them to ensure their well-being.

Supporters of the project have donated decorations and food for the fish, creating a sense of community around the makeshift aquarium. The group plans to keep the fish in place for a few more weeks before donating them to neighbourhood children. The project has brought people together, sparking conversations and creating a unique and lively atmosphere in the neighbourhood.

While city officials have expressed safety concerns about the leaking fire hydrant and the presence of the fish in the sidewalk tree pit, the project participants remain committed to caring for the goldfish and providing them with a temporary home. As of now, dozens of fish are still swimming in the pit, creating a unique and unexpected sight for passersby in the neighbourhood.