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Atlantic Yards/Pacific Park infographics: what's built/what's coming/what's missing, who's responsible, + project FAQ/timeline (pinned post)

Inflatable rats, symbols of union protest, placed outside the Barclays Center

Last week, the District Council of Carpenters began protesting outside the Barclays Center, calling attention to low compensation for part-time workers who convert the arena from basketball facility to concert spaces and other functions.

Yesterday, they brought two inflatable rats, the first right in front of the old Ebbets Field flagpole, the second on Flatbush Avenue. (All photos by Norman Oder/AYR.)

The workers say they get far less compensation than full-time workers at Madison Square Garden; Crain's reported that the part-time wages are competitive. They handed out leaflets to passers-by and received some honks in support from drivers.

Also, a rep told me yesterday that the vote to decertify the SEIU local--which was overwhelmingly in favor but reportedly too few workers to reach a majority--is now before the National Labor Relations Board.

The Carpenters, of course, were vigorous supporters of Atlantic Yards. Now the union is calling Forest City Ratner and the Barclays Center "rotten to the core."



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