New York City Officials Announce Support for Small Business Growth Plan

NEW YORK — New York City officials on Wednesday unveiled the “City of Yes for Economic Opportunity,” a proposal that would change zoning across the city to support new and growing small businesses, create jobs to support the families of New Yorkers and promote a more equitable and inclusive economic recovery for the City.

The plan would allow for the largest expansion of space available to small-scale producers like clean makers and microbreweries in 60 years, encourage the growth of more than 17,000 businesses in industrial areas that currently cannot add square footage, and remove outdated rules that prohibit dancing in restaurants. and premises in commercial areas.

The plan would double the space available for the growth of clean manufacturing companies, expanding that area by more than 14,000 acres (about the size of Manhattan). The proposal would also create a process to allow new neighborhood stores to open in residential areas. More than 250,000 New Yorkers currently live in areas where a new store cannot be located within a quarter mile.

“(The) ‘City of Yes’ plan is all about making New York City the place to be, and this plan doubles down on that,” said Mayor Adams. “Last year, I said that New York City would lead the nation’s economic recovery by becoming a Yes City. Now, we have recovered 99 percent of the jobs lost during the pandemic because we are supporting new small businesses and facilitating the growth of others. With our administration’s vision, New Yorkers and visitors alike will be able to dance, laugh and have a beer; businesses will grow and create good jobs; and having fun will drive an inclusive recovery for our city.”

The plan focuses on four pillars to boost an equitable economy in New York City: revitalizing commercial corridors, filling empty storefronts, investing in key growth industries, and modernizing usage regulations.

In particular, the proposed zoning changes will remove barriers to growth for key businesses and industries, complementing key investments in neighborhoods, small businesses, and community corridors.

The proposed text amendment includes 18 policy changes that would expand options for businesses to locate close to their customers, support growing industries and sectors, foster vibrant business corridors and neighborhoods, and provide businesses with more certainty and clarity with rules. updated zoning.

“Mayor Adams’ ‘City of Yes’ vision breaks down outdated barriers, removes confusing and unnecessary restrictions, and opens up opportunity in our business neighborhoods,” said New York City Department of Small Business Services Commissioner Kevin D. .Kim. “One in nine businesses in New York City started last year, and these future zoning changes will help them expand their services and open new stores. From more diverse and dynamic commercial corridors to revitalized storefronts and more comedy shows in bars and restaurants, there are dozens of reasons for business owners and all New Yorkers to celebrate these reforms.”

Public review of the zoning text amendment will begin after formal submission this fall. The amendment to the text will be presented to the 59 community boards and the five municipal presidents and boards for recommendations. It will then go before the City Planning Commission for a public hearing and vote, followed by a hearing and vote in City Council.

“Small businesses are essential to resilient and vibrant neighborhood business corridors and a critical component of New York City’s economic health,” said Kathryn Wylde, President and CEO of the Partnership for New York City. “City of Yes for Economic Opportunity’s zoning proposals will help our local businesses grow and prosper by modernizing zoning rules to be clearer and more flexible.”