Search Results for: "small business"

New legislation ends criminal penalties for NYC street vendors

Credit: Marco on Flickr

July 9, 2025

New legislation ends criminal penalties for NYC street vendors

By Aaron Ginsburg

The City Council last month passed legislation that decriminalizes most street vending violations in New York City. Sponsored by Queens Council Member Shekar Krishnan, Intro. 47 removes misdemeanor criminal penalties for general and food vendors and reduces them to civil offenses instead. The legislation comes amid a sharp rise in NYPD enforcement: officers issued over 9,300 tickets to vendors in 2024, more than double the total in 2023, according to City Limits. With 96 percent of the city’s street vendors being immigrants, according to the Immigration Research Initiative, criminal penalties heighten the risk of deportation under the Trump administration’s intensifying immigration crackdowns.
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Policy

NYCxDESIGN 2025: 12 can’t-miss events during New York City’s annual celebration of design

Photo courtesy of NYCxDESIGN

May 13, 2025

NYCxDESIGN 2025: 12 can’t-miss events during New York City’s annual celebration of design

By Michelle Cohen

Each spring, New York City takes its turn as the epicenter of global design during the NYCxDESIGN Festival. The 2025 festivities run from May 15 to May 21, drawing industry professionals, innovators, tastemakers, and design lovers from around the world. From iconic trade events like ICFF and WANTED to a city-wide constellation of exhibitions, studio tours, discussions, and product debuts, the festival offers a first look at the ideas shaping tomorrow’s design landscape. It’s a brilliant opportunity to discover emerging talent, explore cutting-edge trends in furniture, lighting, textiles, and objects, and experience the energy of the city’s design scene. Keep reading for an overview of what not to miss.
a world of design, this way

NYC to install panic buttons at 500 bodegas

Credit: Robinson Greig on Unsplash

May 5, 2025

NYC to install panic buttons at 500 bodegas

By Aaron Ginsburg

Hundreds of bodegas across New York City will soon be outfitted with emergency "panic buttons" designed to alert police during emergencies in real time. On Sunday, Mayor Eric Adams announced $1.6 million in funding for "SilentShields," discreet devices to be installed in bodegas located in "high-crime areas," connecting directly to the NYPD’s central command to cut down response times. The initiative comes just days after a man was fatally stabbed inside a Harlem bodega and follows years of advocacy by the United Bodegas of America (UBA), which has long called for the devices, according to Gothamist.
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Policy

NYC’s outdoor dining season kicks off

Credit: Eden, Janine and Jim on Flickr

April 1, 2025

NYC’s outdoor dining season kicks off

By Aaron Ginsburg

The sun is finally out, and the tables are, too—outdoor dining is officially back in New York City. Mayor Eric Adams on Tuesday announced the start of Dining Out NYC, a program allowing certain restaurants to offer outdoor seating on streets and sidewalks across the five boroughs from April 1 through November 29. At the program's peak during the pandemic, more than 12,500 restaurants participated. As of Tuesday, just 2,450 outdoor dining setups, including 600 on the street, have been approved by the city, although more are expected to open in the coming weeks.
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Council passes legislation to reduce NYC’s 400 miles of scaffolding

Photo by William Alatriste/NYC Council Media Unit on Flickr

March 27, 2025

Council passes legislation to reduce NYC’s 400 miles of scaffolding

By Aaron Ginsburg

Scaffolding may soon have less of a ubiquitous presence in New York City. The City Council on Wednesday passed a series of bills reforming sidewalk shed rules to shorten how long the barriers can remain up and allow for new, more appealing designs. The city currently has over 8,400 sidewalk sheds that take up roughly 400 miles of sidewalk. On average, the structures remain in place for over 500 days; over 300 sheds have stood for over five years.
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Policy

Mayoral hopeful Lander proposes 50,000 new homes on NYC golf courses

Van Cortlandt Golf Course. Photo by Shannon McGee on Flickr

March 13, 2025

Mayoral hopeful Lander proposes 50,000 new homes on NYC golf courses

By Aaron Ginsburg

In a proposal likely to make golf lovers tee off, mayoral candidate Brad Lander wants to turn some of New York City's public golf courses into 50,000 new homes to tackle the housing crisis. The idea, included in the city comptroller's 36-page housing proposal released last week, is a key element of Lander’s vision to create 500,000 new homes across the five boroughs over the next decade, if elected mayor. In order to achieve these ambitious housing goals, Lander said he would declare a housing emergency to speed up construction and triple subsidies for affordable housing.
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Coney Island West plan calls for 1,500 new homes, boardwalk upgrades

Renderings courtesy of ONE Architecture & Urbanism

February 20, 2025

Coney Island West plan calls for 1,500 new homes, boardwalk upgrades

By Devin Gannon

The city is moving ahead with a plan to bring thousands of mixed-income homes, new retail, and boardwalk and street improvements to Coney Island. Mayor Eric Adams and the city's Economic Development Corporation on Thursday released their vision for "Coney Island West," a waterfront development area west of the Amusement District. On Thursday the city issued a request for proposals for the first city-owned parcel, kicking off the development of 1,500 new homes.
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NYC to redevelop Long Island City site once proposed for Amazon’s HQ2

Image via WikiCommons

February 6, 2025

NYC to redevelop Long Island City site once proposed for Amazon’s HQ2

By Aaron Ginsburg

The city is looking to redevelop three sites in Long Island City that nearly became Amazon's second headquarters. As first reported by Crain's New York, the Adams administration will release a request for expressions of interest (RFEI) this spring to redevelop 44-36 Vernon Boulevard, a longtime Department of Education property. The city is prioritizing proposals that include commercial, industrial, and community-serving tenants for the six-story building. The 672,000-square-foot warehouse was once slated to be part of Amazon's "HQ2," a sprawling campus for the retail giant, but the company withdrew its plan in 2019 after strong opposition from residents, elected officials, and community groups.
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How to celebrate Lunar New Year in NYC

Better Chinatown USA’s 26th Lunar New Year Parade in 2024. Photo courtesy of Michael Appleton/Mayoral Photography Office on Flickr

January 21, 2025

How to celebrate Lunar New Year in NYC

By Aaron Ginsburg

Marking the arrival of spring and fresh starts, the Lunar New Year festival runs for two weeks from January 29 to February 16. 2025 marks the Year of the Snake, the sixth animal in the 12-year Chinese zodiac cycle and representing wisdom and transformation, bringing with it, opportunities for personal growth. With multiple Chinatowns and Asian communities across New York City, there are many ways to celebrate the new year, from fireworks and a parade to lion dances and lantern-making.
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Events & Things To Do

How New Yorkers can help those affected by the LA wildfires

Credit: CAL FIRE_Official on Flickr

January 13, 2025

How New Yorkers can help those affected by the LA wildfires

By Aaron Ginsburg

New Yorkers are stepping up to support those affected by the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. Three fires continue to burn, with firefighters working tirelessly to contain the blazes amid high winds and water shortages. As of Monday, the Palisades fire, the largest active blaze, has spread across more than 23,000 acres, leaving communities deeply impacted. Whether you have roots in California or simply want to help, several New York City businesses are rallying to raise funds and provide resources for LA residents in need. Ahead, discover how you can join the efforts to support those impacted by the wildfires.
how to help

Events & Things To Do

‘QueensLink’ receives $400K grant to study reactivation of abandoned railway

All images courtesy of QueensLink

January 10, 2025

‘QueensLink’ receives $400K grant to study reactivation of abandoned railway

By Aaron Ginsburg

A plan to reactivate a deserted railway as the first north-to-south subway line in Queens just got a financial boost from the federal government. The nonprofit group behind QueensLink, a proposal extending the M train from Rego Park to the Rockaways along the abandoned Rockaway Beach Branch with accompanying bike paths and trails, received a $400,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) as part of the Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program. The funds would pay for a study measuring the impacts of the project, which the group hopes could bring more support for QueensLink; it is currently competing against a separate project to build a linear park on the same railway.
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The best Christmas trees in New York City

December 3, 2024

The best Christmas trees in New York City

By Aaron Ginsburg

With holiday festivities ramping up in New York City, neighborhoods across the five boroughs are coming alive with dazzling displays of festive cheer. The city's Christmas and holiday trees, whose allure brings visitors from all corners of the world during the holiday season, all come with their own festive flare. Discover some of the city's most stunning holiday trees, from Rockefeller Center's world-famous tree to lesser-known—but just as elegant—trees at the South Street Seaport and Luna Park.
Find the holiday magic

Events & Things To Do

The 23 best NYC holiday markets this year

FAD Holiday Market at Dumbo Empire Stores. Photo courtesy of FAD Market.

November 27, 2024

The 23 best NYC holiday markets this year

By Aaron Ginsburg

The holiday season has officially arrived in New York City, bringing with it the quest for the perfect gift. Whether you're searching for one-of-a-kind jewelry or artwork, or are craving a festive treat, the city's holiday markets will have something special for everyone. Ahead, find some of the best spots to find unique and meaningful gifts for loved ones this holiday season, from long-standing markets at Bryant Park, Union Square, and Columbus Circle to exciting newcomers like Macy's Holiday Square.
your gift hunt starts here

City begins public review for Atlantic Avenue rezoning plan to create over 4,500 new homes

Rendering of Atlantic Avenue’s improved, and safer streets, courtesy of DCP

October 16, 2024

City begins public review for Atlantic Avenue rezoning plan to create over 4,500 new homes

By Aaron Ginsburg

A plan to create thousands of new apartments and add open space to Atlantic Avenue in Brooklyn is moving forward. Mayor Eric Adams on Tuesday announced the start of the public review process for the Atlantic Avenue Mixed-Use Plan, a rezoning that could create roughly 4,600 new homes—1,440 of which will be permanently income-restricted and affordable—and 2,800 jobs along a 21-block stretch of Atlantic Avenue. The plan will also include traffic safety upgrades at intersections along the corridor to improve pedestrian safety, accessibility, and visibility.
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Bryant Park’s Winter Village opens this month

Photos by Colin Miller

October 10, 2024

Bryant Park’s Winter Village opens this month

By Aaron Ginsburg

It's time to get into the holiday spirit in New York. The annual Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park is returning for its 23rd season later this month. Starting on October 25, the festive event features New York City's only free-admission ice skating, the park's iconic open-air holiday market featuring more than 180 small businesses, a rinkside food hall and bar, heated private igloos, and more. The Winter Village is open through March 2, 2025.
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Events & Things To Do

Food hall opening at Amazon’s Fifth Avenue office

Photo credit: WRNS Studio, SCAPE, Bilyana Dimitrova

September 11, 2024

Food hall opening at Amazon’s Fifth Avenue office

By Devin Gannon

New York City is getting another food hall. Earlier this year, Texas-based operator Food Hall Co. announced plans to open Shaver Hall, a 35,000-square-foot culinary experience on the ground floor of the historic Lord & Taylor building on Fifth Avenue. After serving as the department store's flagship for over a century, the landmark was bought by Amazon and converted into office space, which opened last year.
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Food & Dining

NYC night markets: 10 food festivals to check out

Chinatown Night Market. Photo credit: Francis Wu

July 11, 2024

NYC night markets: 10 food festivals to check out

By Aaron Ginsburg

New York City night markets provide the best way to explore cuisines of the world, without getting on a plane. Taking place across the city, these vibrant open-air festivals offer an affordable and fun night out, while also supporting local vendors and small businesses. Adding to the nightlife feel, the markets are often accompanied by live music, performances, and art from local artists. We've rounded up our favorite night markets to check out this summer, from the well-established Queens Night Market to new events at Lincoln Center and Union Square.
see what's cooking

Bronx Metro-North station rezoning plan approved by City Planning Commission

View looking north along East Tremont Avenue near Leland Avenue. Images courtesy of DCP.

July 2, 2024

Bronx Metro-North station rezoning plan approved by City Planning Commission

By Aaron Ginsburg

A plan to bring thousands of new homes and jobs around new Metro-North stations in the East Bronx is moving forward. The City Planning Commission last week voted to approve the Bronx Metro-North Station Area Plan, a rezoning effort targeting the areas around four new Metro-North stations to create roughly 7,500 new homes, 10,000 jobs, improvements to public space, and neighborhood amenities. The plan heads next to the City Council for a final vote sometime this summer.
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New York City officially lifts dancing ban

Couples jitterbug dancing in the 1930s. Photo courtesy of the Library of Congress Prints and Photographs division.

June 7, 2024

New York City officially lifts dancing ban

By Devin Gannon

New York City got its groove back. The City Council this week voted to end zoning regulations that ban dancing in nightlife establishments in many parts of the city. Although officials repealed the outdated Cabaret Law in 2017, zoning rules were not revised, leaving much of the Prohibition-era law in place at small bars and restaurants in 80 percent of the city. On Thursday, the Council passed Mayor Eric Adams' City of Yes for Economic Opportunity plan, which includes updates to zoning allowing dancing and live entertainment as of right in commercial establishments.
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Policy

Park Slope development with 305 new apartments approved by City Council

Renderings courtesy of Brick Visual for MARVEL

May 15, 2024

Park Slope development with 305 new apartments approved by City Council

By Aaron Ginsburg

Park Slope will soon see the addition of two high-rise rentals, bringing more than 300 new apartments to the neighborhood. The City Council last month approved a rezoning application from Stellar Management to construct two new buildings at 341 10th Street, in addition to the existing apartment building on the site the developer already owns. The project includes new 17- and 19-story buildings that would wrap around the subway covering where the F and G trains go below ground, as The Real Deal reported. The project adds 305 new apartments, 162 of which will be income-restricted, bringing the total number of units from 154 to 459 at the property.
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New Developments

City Council approves NYC’s first-ever pro soccer stadium in Queens

Renderings courtesy of NYCFC

April 11, 2024

City Council approves NYC’s first-ever pro soccer stadium in Queens

By Aaron Ginsburg

New York City's first-ever professional soccer stadium in Queens is moving forward. The City Council on Thursday voted to approve a sweeping 23-acre mixed-use development in Willets Point that will bring a seven-story soccer stadium for the NYC Football Club (NYCFC), 2,500 affordable housing units, a school, and a hotel to the neighborhood, once known for its junkyards and landfills. The 25,000-seat stadium is slated for completion just in time for the 2027 season.
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Lunar New Year 2024: How to celebrate the Year of the Dragon in NYC

Photo by Dan Nguyen on Flickr

January 23, 2024

Lunar New Year 2024: How to celebrate the Year of the Dragon in NYC

By Aaron Ginsburg

Lunar New Year, the two-week-long festival that ushers in spring and new beginnings, starts on February 10 and runs until February 24. This year marks the Year of the Dragon, which is the fifth animal in the 12-year cycle of Chinese zodiacs and is said to possess the sharpest sense of self among all other zodiac signs. Ahead, find many ways to celebrate the Lunar New Year in New York City, from taking craft lessons from master artisans at the Chinese Institute in America's family festival to attending Chinatown's annual parade and firecracker celebration.
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Events & Things To Do

NYC’s coziest spots to escape the cold weather

Photo courtesy of Black Mountain Wine House

January 18, 2024

NYC’s coziest spots to escape the cold weather

By Aaron Ginsburg

Winter is here, and New Yorkers are hunkering down for the cold and dark months to come. But regardless of how terrible the season can be, we still want to go out and do things. Ahead, here are some of the city's coziest places to spend the cold months ahead, from rustic bars with fireplaces to the Koneko cat cafe.
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Designer gift picks: 10 NYC creatives share what they’re giving (or hoping to get) this holiday season

Photo credits, clockwise from top left: Color block painting by Holly McWhorter; photo courtesy of Casa Dragones Tequila; photo courtesy of quistgaardpepper.com; photo by kathryn via Flickr; photo courtesy of Michele Varian shop; photo courtesy of Coming Soon.

December 19, 2023

Designer gift picks: 10 NYC creatives share what they’re giving (or hoping to get) this holiday season

By Michelle Cohen

6sqft once again questioned New York City designers, architects, and artists on which goodies they'd love to give–or, perhaps, receive. Read on for a covetable mix of unexpected items curated by some of the city’s most talented creatives. We hope you'll find some inspiring ideas among them if you happen to find yourself scrambling for one last (perfect) gift.
Great gift ideas, this way

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NYC reopens scaled-down Corona Plaza street market

Photo of the plaza in 2018. Courtesy of the NYC Department of Transportation on Flickr

November 29, 2023

NYC reopens scaled-down Corona Plaza street market

By Aaron Ginsburg

The popular street market at Corona Plaza in Queens is returning with far fewer vendors and more regulations after being shut down by the city this summer. Mayor Eric Adams on Tuesday announced plans to restore the marketplace at 103rd Street and Roosevelt Avenue with just 14 vendors compared to the more than 80 merchants located there before the shutdown in July. The city said regulating the community vending area became necessary after complaints over public safety and cleanliness increased fivefold in one year.
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