Community Alerts 8.30.23

Reminder: New Commercial Containerization Rules

As of August 1, all food related businesses, including restaurants, delis, grocery stores, bodegas, and caterers, must use rigid containers with secure lids when setting out trash for collection.

Starting September 5, this rule also applies to any business with five or more locations in New York City, regardless of what it sells. It is an important step in keeping our streets clean. For more information on the rule, visit DSNY's website here.

If you don't know the rule yet, attend one of DSNY's training sessions on Tuesday, September 5, at 11:00am, Thursday, September 14, at 2:00pm, Monday, September 18, at 6:00pm, and Wednesday, September 27, at 3:00pm. 

Sanitation Service Alert

The New York City Department of Sanitation has announced that there WILL BE trash and compost collection on Monday, September 4, 2023. Click here for more information.

Permanent Outdoor Dining Program Signed into Law

On August 3, the New York City Council passed legislation to make sidewalk and roadway outdoor dining permanent citywide, and on August 17, Mayor Adams signed the bill into law. Outdoor dining will now be legally available to restaurants in all neighborhoods across the five boroughs. A rule-making process will now begin, including a public comment period, to finalize the siting, material, and operational guidelines that participating businesses will need to comply with. Visit NYC DOT's new Dining Out NYC website for all timeline and program information. Many frequently asked questions are answered in the FAQ link on this site. Please continue to check the website for updates as program development continues and new information is released.

Central Business District Tolling Program Construction Bulletin

MTA Bridges and Tunnels has released a construction bulletin, which you can view here, detailing upcoming work on the Central Business District Tolling Program through September. Though most of these locations are not in our district, there is construction scheduled in Lincoln Square from September 6 - 26, 2023, mostly during the daytime, at 4 Central Park West, including foundation excavation, rebar, placement, trenching (night), and pole installation (night). For inquiries about construction, please reach the MTA at CBDTPConstruction@mtabt.org or (877) 201-4015. 

NYC BEST Bootcamp Starting September 7

This series of webinars will help small business owners understand the rules and regulations needed to launch and operate a business in New York City, including industry-specific courses to help restaurants, street vendors, child care providers, manufacturers, and other types of specialized businesses. You can learn more and register here.

Comptroller Lander's Accounting for Asylum Seeker Services

New York City Comptroller Brad Lander launched a new online resource that makes data on asylum seeker services publicly available. It includes access to key information on emergency contracting, budgeting, and the status of individuals in our shelter system. You can view the Accounting for Asylum Seeker Services online resource here.

Tribute in Lights

In partnership, NYC Tourism + Conventions and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum are encouraging participation in a citywide commemoration highlighting the vow to never forget the 9/11 attacks. They are asking property owners to illuminate their building facades or rooftops in any shade of sky blue, honoring those lost and shining a light on the unbreakable spirit of NYC. If you plan to participate, please complete the form at the bottom of this page. 

Monthly Housing Clinic on September 12

Council Member Erik Bottcher's Monthly Housing Clinic will take place on Tuesday, September 12, from 4:00 – 6:00pm. This is an opportunity for residents of Council District 3 to meet individually with housing attorneys regarding tenant/landlord issues. The clinic takes place on the second Tuesday of each month via conference call. All conversations are confidential. Sign-up for the upcoming clinic online here or by email at district3@council.nyc.gov.

Rampoldi is Coming Soon

Rumor has it that Rampoldi plans to open soon at 49 W 64th Street. Check out the website here for updates. Foodies, keep an eye out!