Overview
- Transportation officials told councilmembers that roughly 400 restaurants have fully completed 2025 licenses, with many others operating this year on conditional approvals under the new program.
- The current roadway-dining season ends Nov. 29, so businesses must remove street setups for winter regardless of any legislative movement.
- The package under consideration would restore year-round use of roadway space, let some establishments extend setups beyond their frontage, allow grocery stores to seek sidewalk café permits, cap the pedestrian clear path at eight feet, and require in-person help for applicants.
- Business and street-safety groups including the NYC Hospitality Alliance, Open Plans and Transportation Alternatives back the overhaul, arguing seasonal breakdowns and upfront fees—such as a $2,100 combined license plus consent fees and deposits—have deterred participation.
- Neighborhood groups and community board leaders oppose key provisions, criticizing limited notice for the hearing and raising concerns about pedestrian accessibility, emergency access and noise from year-round operations.