As a resident of Carmine Street, it is disconcerting to walk the block and see the vagrancy and conspicuous drug use that Nami Nori's outdoor dining vestibule promotes. It is not uncommon to discover unwelcome visitors passed out, clearly having made use of the space for drug-related activities during non-business hours. Overnight, you can hear loud disputes, raucous music, and shrieks of pain coming from unwanted characters spending their evenings in the vestibule. 

To be abundantly clear, the above is distinct and should not be conflated with the neighborhood's unhoused residents. They are by and large peaceful and respectful, typically utilizing the steps of Our Lady of Pompeii Church. In fact, those using the Nami Nori vestibule typically travel and use the space because of the widespread knowledge of it being one of the only 24 hour shelters in Manhattan.

This isn't just a disturbance; it's an escalating public safety issue. Recent city records show that the local rate of drug-related offenses has greatly increased [Source: NYPD Crime Statistics]. The implications are clear: the vestibule is attracting unwanted characters which is greatly reducing the safety of Carmine Street.

This issue has been raised to Management of Nami Nori as early as February of 2023, yet no action has been taken. As the colder months approach, and vagrancy levels at the space increase, measures must be taken to rectify the issue. We believe that Nami Nori, as a responsible community member, should revert the health and wellbeing of the neighborhood and return safety to our street, by promptly dismantling their vestibule.

Please join this cause, sign the petition, and help us to restore security within our community.