Parts of Lower Manhattan cleanup continues - New York News | NYC Breaking News

The power has returned to most of Lower Manhattan after residents spent the better part of the week in the dark – many are excited to have the lights restored.  

One Midtown East building still had workers in hazmat suits as they continued the arduous post-Sandy cleanup process. 

Despite the building's name, Rivergate could not keep the flood waters out. The hi-rise now has the dubious distinction of being one of the last buildings in Manhattan still without power. 

Many residents described the experience and the word that comes to mind is powerless. 

"It's just getting used to the dark ages," said Rivergate resident Jeff Parris. "It's unpleasant feeling when have home but don't have home." 

At South Street Seaport, "super dry" got super wet – so much so, it too was still without power. 

The sign in the Abercrombie & Fitch window was succinct and to the point. It seemed Lower Manhattan was even lower in spirit. 

"It's been extremely dire situation downtown, not tremendous food or water or assistance." 

Community Board 1 member Julie Menin said she and volunteers knocked on thousands of doors and saw sobering reminders of Sandy's aftermath. 

"We saw seniors who had not had food or water in days," said Menin. 

There was little to no food at the Clover Deli either as they had to throw it all away before power came back. 

"It's a big cleanup process," said the store owner.  

With food scarce, customers who just had their power restored, happily refueled themselves with other energy sources.

"No food, but beer? Yes, got the essentials!" added one customer.