James Caldwell Way: Street renaming celebrates Prospect Heights community advocate
Officials from across NYC including Mayor Eric Adams and Attorney General Letitia James joined members of the Prospect Heights community Saturday for the unveiling of the street sign named in honor or Dr. James E. Caldwell.
The ceremony, held at the intersection of Washington Avenue and Dean Street, celebrated the legacy of the late 77th Precinct Council president – from child services, affordable housing, elder protections and fighting for the Barclay's Center at time when the project was unpopular.
Current Council President Brian Saunders, one of the organizers of the street dedication, says that Caldwell was an inspiration and mentor for him. He says Caldwell’s legacy can be seen and felt all over Prospect Heights and Brooklyn as a whole.
"To know that your community has a need, and to fight for it – it was a true reward to be honored by your community for you and for what you have done," Saunders said.
Saunders says the street sign, located above his former home, is a permanent reminder of that legacy.
"They say you should give someone their roses while they are here, and this man deserved to have his roses. I'm sorry he is not here to get them right now but…his history will always be here," said Saunders.