New York Governor Intervenes to Save Historic Brooklyn Synagogue

The Kingsbrook Synagogue, officially known as Congregation Joseph Chaim Albert, has served the Jewish community in Brooklyn since at least 1928. Established on the grounds of the Kingsbrook Jewish Medical Center, the synagogue was built to provide a space for worship amid historical antisemitism that limited access to other hospitals. The medical center, founded in the late 1920s, incorporated Jewish amenities, including a kosher kitchen and prayer spaces. Over the years, the synagogue has been a vital part of the community, drawing worshipers from both the hospital and the surrounding neighborhoods, including the Hasidic community of Crown Heights.

Times of Israel

The synagogue's future became uncertain when One Brooklyn Health, the nonprofit that emerged from the merger of Kingsbrook with two other hospitals, announced plans to redevelop the property. These plans included the demolition of the synagogue, which sparked significant backlash from the local Jewish community and elected officials. The congregation filed a lawsuit in June 2023, claiming that the demolition would erase nearly a century of Jewish religious life and violate previous assurances that the synagogue would remain operational.

Times of Israel

In response to the community's concerns, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul intervened to halt the demolition. Hochul emphasized the synagogue's historical significance, stating, “Kingsbrook Synagogue has been around since the early 1900s and is a testament to the strength and resilience of the Jewish community.” Her office did not specify the nature of her intervention, but it was noted that the state housing agency had oversight of the redevelopment project, giving the state leverage over the plans.

Times of Israel

The governor's intervention was met with relief from local Jewish leaders. Rabbi Lazer Avtzon of the Association of Crown Heights Shuls expressed gratitude, stating, “The synagogue has stood as a beacon of light for the entire neighborhood.” Similarly, Rabbi Shmuel Rosenstein of the Crown Heights Jewish Community Council noted his hope to bring his children to the synagogue soon. New York State Attorney General Letitia James also praised Hochul's actions, highlighting the synagogue's importance to the community.

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Despite Hochul's intervention, the congregation faces ongoing challenges. The synagogue has been neglected, leading to its deterioration, which the hospital has cited as a reason to restrict access. The lawsuit alleges that One Brooklyn Health has exploited the COVID-19 pandemic to facilitate the sale of the property to developers without accommodating the active congregation. The future of the synagogue remains uncertain as the congregation continues to fight for its rights amid the redevelopment plans.

Times of Israel

Governor Hochul's actions have temporarily preserved the Kingsbrook Synagogue, a significant historical and cultural landmark for the Jewish community in Brooklyn. The situation highlights the ongoing struggle between community preservation and development interests, as local leaders and residents advocate for the synagogue's continued existence.

Times of Israel