NYC Targets Sidewalk Sheds' Business Impact

A new study commissioned by NYC and Mastercard reveals that sidewalk sheds and scaffolding significantly impact Manhattan businesses, costing them between $3,900 and $9,500 in lost revenue per month. Restaurants and bars are particularly affected, seeing up to a 10% decrease in weekly transactions in the six months following the erection of scaffolding. Mayor Eric Adams is spearheading the 'Get Sheds Down' program to expedite building repairs and reduce the number of unnecessary sheds. The program has already removed 173 miles of sidewalk sheds, aiming to improve business visibility and public safety. The city plans to introduce legislation to better regulate the construction and maintenance of these structures and address property owners who delay necessary repairs.