Press Release
August 19, 2003

On Tuesday, August 19, 2003, the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce issued a survey to its Members to determine some of the effects last week’s blackout had on Brooklyn businesses.

“We know anecdotally how some businesses were affected, but now we are seeking to collect hard data related to revenue losses, equipment damage and insurance claims,” Brooklyn Chamber President, Kenneth Adams, said.  “Because Brooklyn is home to predominately small and mid-sized companies, the borough is an appropriate place to measure the effect the power outage had on a local economy.” 

The one-page survey was e-mailed and faxed to Brooklyn Chamber Members.  The Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce is urging its Members and all businesses in the borough to participate in the survey.  Businesses can access the survey from this page (see below).  The information from this survey will be used to inform public officials and the media about some of the short-term impacts of the August 14th power outage. 

The Brooklyn Chamber’s membership consists of 1,200 businesses located in every neighborhood throughout the borough.  Almost every industry type is represented, from  restaurants and retailers to manufacturing plants and technology companies. 

“While it is obvious that the damage to food and other perishable items disproportionately affects restaurants, supermarkets and wholesalers, this survey is also seeking to measure some of the costs associated with businesses being forced to close for a day or two,” Adams went on to say.  “Retail stores, some business-to-business services, tourism and time-sensitive construction, will recognize significant losses due to this blackout.”

The data provided by the Brooklyn Chamber’s survey will be shared with the NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS) to be included in their database.  SBS is working with borough-wide organizations to establish a list of small businesses that need help and to determine from where that help can come.  Small businesses affected by the blackout that are looking for assistance should call 311 or the NYC Business Solutions Center at the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, 718-875-3400.   

The Brooklyn Chamber is asking that companies respond to the survey as soon as possible. 

How to Respond to the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce Blackout Impact Survey:

To respond by email:

1. Click here to download survey questionnaire.
2. Use the “Save As” command to save this file to your computer's hard drive.
3. Type in your responses and save the file again.
4. Address a new e-mail to: rpaul@brooklynchamber.com and attach this file, and click on send.

You can type your responses directly into this form.  You can use either your mouse or the “Tab” key to navigate the form.  For example the “Tab” key will move your cursor from field to field.  Please remember to save the file after you have entered all of your information. 

To respond by fax:

1. Click here to download survey questionnaire.
2. Print the survey, then complete the form.
3. Fax it back to us at (718) 237-4274 attn: R. Peers.