Bright Sign Sparks Uproar In Heights, Business Hit With Violations

WASHINGTON HEIGHTS, NY – A bright, flashing LED sign promoting "IV Drips" has disturbed residents of one Washington Heights block for more than a year, neighbors say.

“It’s hard to get the kids to sleep,” said Amanda Bastian, who lives in the area. “It’s just constant flashing. People have been complaining about it and there’s been no response [from the city] at all.”

The sign, outside Doctor G Spa at 435 Fort Washington Avenue near 180th Street, is not only bright but flashes all night long, according to frustrated neighbors.

“They run it 24/7,” said Rocky Marcus, who lives nearby. “I’m almost asleep and it kind of shocks me out of it. It’s pretty darn annoying.”

Another resident, Allison H., agreed.

“Like my neighbor Amanda, we also have been dealing with the intensely bright light that comes from signage at 435 [Fort] Washington," Allison told Patch. "[It] shines directly into our two bedrooms throughout the night.”

Doctor G Spa

A “scientifically based wellness center with comprehensive [and] state-of-the-art technology,” Doctor G Spa offers facials, botox, lip augmentation, and more, according to its website.

Reached by phone, a representative was adamant that the business's signage is fully compliant with city regulations.

“We have a permit,” said Martha, who described herself as a manager.

Would Doctor G Spa consider turning off the sign at night? Has the business met with neighbors to discuss their concerns?"

Martha had nothing more to say, and directed Patch to Patria Gonzales, who Martha described as the owner of the business.

Emails sent to Gonzales have not been returned.

City Action

The Department of Buildings (DOB) has been aware of the controversial sign for some time.

After an initial inspection on Sept. 8, inspectors returned to 435 Fort Washington Avenue on Sept. 12 and issued eight zoning violations.

"[Five] signs at the location are illuminated, and [two] signs are illuminated and flashing. Illuminated and/or flashing LED signs are prohibited in residential districts according to ZR 22-32," a DOB spokesperson wrote, in an email. "The business owner is receiving an additional violation for having more than the maximum number (2) of business accessory signs allowed by ZR 22-343."

Each of the eight violations carries a $2,500 penalty, the spokesperson confirmed, meaning that Doctor G Spa is potentially on the hook for $20,000.

What Happens Now?

Although DOB issued the violations, they are Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings (OATH) violations, meaning that the business owner or a representative will need to appear at a hearing, where they will have the opportunity to plead their case.

At that point, Doctor G Spa's fate, regarding the violations and their associated penalties, will rest in the hands of an administrative judge, who has the power to decide whether to uphold the violations or not.

“Oh my god, I’m amazed,” Bastian said, reached by phone. “This means the world to us. It’s our little corner of New York, and it really means the world to all of us who are trying to live peacefully in our little homes,” she continued. “Hopefully [the sign] will come down soon.”

What about her faith in city government – restored, for the time being?

“Absolutely, 100%,” she laughed. “I’m feeling much better about the city of New York.”

Patch will continue to report on the situation and provide updates as it unfolds

Do you have a neighborhood issue you’d like us to look into? Email michael.mcdowell@patch.com.