311 is great in theory

here in new york city we have this great-sounding thing called 311. wondering if alternate-side parking is in effect? want to complain about a landlord being chintzy with the rent? want to complain about trucks idling their engines? call 311...and you probably won't get the problem solved. you'll learn about alternate-side parking. but there are five streetlights on my block, and FOUR of them are out...scary at night. trev won't even park there. i have been calling 311 since SEPTEMBER and still the lights are out (at that point, only two of the lights were out). i have complained abt the buses on my block idling their engines...never solved. a pain in the butt....