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The sign, which directed a vulgar word at developer Bruce Ratner, appeared this morning on Saint Marks Avenue and Flatbush Avenue in Prospect Heights.

Ratner has been a controversial figure in the area since the state used eminent domain to condemn the property on Ratner's behalf, so that a sports arena and high-rise apartments could be built.

It was up for a couple of hours before crews were able to fix it, and many passersby stopped, took pictures and laughed.

"When I see that sign, it's really inappropriate for the area, because there's kids. I have a preschool in the area and that doesn't sit well," said one local.

"It's funny, there's a lot of opposition in the area for it. It affects businesses and people that live here, you know?" said another. "And I think it's pretty clever, actually."

"That does not say what I think it does, does it? Oh no," said a third. "Ooh, I can't say that either."

Ironically, Ratner is also the owner of the hacked sign. It looks like the bit of electric graffiti was done by someone who broke into the control box, cut a wire and decided to leave the message.

It is supposed to provide information on street closings and by 10 a.m. Monday it read again, "5th Avenue closed, Flatbush to Atlantic."