Dollar vans are kind of the "gypsy cabs" of Brooklyn and other parts of New York City with large Caribbean populations. When it comes to public transportation, these areas are notoriously under-serviced parts of town. 

There are basically no subways, very few busses, and definitely no yellow cabs. But these people still need to go places like, work, doctors! You know, anywhere. 

So in the tradition of many people's home countries, or at least in an attempt to resurrect that lost element of their home country's vibe, dollar vans began popping up.

At first, it was all completely illegal. But in the mid 90's, City Councilwoman Una Clark championed the dollar van cause and helped legalize the business sector. 

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Because it is a thriving little business that does more than just take people to places and things. Check out the Mashable video below. Get the rundown. Learn some knowledge, kids. You're welcome. 

Check out The Most NYC Thing You'll Ever See. Like, Ever. 

[Feature Image Courtesy of BlogTo]