A city-sponsored needle exchange program in the Bronx, located just outside a children’s library, is facing fierce backlash from local residents and officials who are calling the location “unacceptable.”

Concerns are mounting over the safety and well-being of children due to increasing drug activity and discarded syringes in the area.

One frustrated resident described the scene: “The whole street is infested… There are kids around. I’ve seen them shooting up in the open. One guy putting the syringe at another guy. It’s a major disturbance.”

Another neighbor lamented the dangers of simply walking down the street: “I’m seeing a lot of needles. They do it and they just leave it there.”

The proximity of the needle exchange site to a place frequented by children has sparked outrage, with many urging city officials to reconsider its location. Critics argue that while harm reduction programs are essential, situating them near spaces meant for children creates unnecessary risks.

Residents are demanding swift action to protect the community and ensure that children can visit the library without fear of encountering drug-related activity.