Children as young as 11 are among a growing number of unlicensed vendors operating on the Brooklyn Bridge, selling fruit, snacks, water, and toys to tourists. The presence of these vendors has become a significant issue, disrupting the pedestrian walkway and drawing complaints from visitors and licensed vendors alike.
One 11-year-old vendor, who emigrated from Ecuador with his family in 2021, stated he earns between $100 and $300 daily by working about eight hours a day, four days a week, with his mother selling hats nearby. Another 12-year-old vendor was observed selling fruit for $5 a piece while his mother was reportedly in the restroom, leaving him unattended. Tourists expressed mixed reactions, with some finding the situation awkward and questioning the parents' whereabouts.
Illegal vending has been a persistent problem on the Brooklyn Bridge for years. By 2023, the span was described by some locals as a "disgusting, mile-long souvenir shop and flea market." Although a sweep ordered by former Mayor Eric Adams in 2024 temporarily removed the vendors, the illicit market has since returned.
On a recent Sunday, at least 42 unlicensed vendors were observed on the bridge, with merchandise spread on blankets. Some older children were left to manage sales independently, while younger children, some as young as four or five, were present with adults. This situation has angered local residents and legitimate vendors, including disabled military veterans who hold licenses.
Licensed vendors, such as Sammy, a veteran selling ice cream near the bridge, noted that city crackdowns are infrequent. When citations are issued, the fines are typically $50 or less, a minimal amount compared to the vendors' earnings. "Us being disabled veterans and having a license means nothing over there now," Sammy said, expressing frustration that illegal vendors are not being removed while licensed vendors face restrictions. The vendors are reportedly operating under the current administration of Mayor Zohran Mamdani.
