You’ve probably heard the news already that the Red Hook vendors season was extended yesterday by the Parks Department to run through October 21. The temporary permits under which they’ve been operating would otherwise have expired tomorrow. The Parks Department had promised to extend the season after a widespread outcry, but waited until the last minute to issue the permits. Red Hook Vendors Committee head Cesar Fuentes called us to say the vendors are happy about the extension, but noted that the Parks Department came up one weekend short of their request, which had been through October 28. A rough road is ahead for the vendors, if they are to be back next year. They are under scrutiny by the Health Department, which could impose requirements that are too costly for the vendors, and a long-term permit for the park will be put out to bid over the winter.

Here are some links to coverage of the story:
Red Hook food stands get a reprieve [amNY]
Food Vendors Get a Break [AP/NYP]
Red Hook Vendors Golden Through October [Lost City]
Red Hook Ball Field Vendors Clear Through 10/21 [Eater]
Red Hook Food Vendors Given a Temporary Reprieve [CityRoom]