Outdoor Dining Becomes a Permanent Fixture on NYC Streets, Sparking Mixed Reactions
New York City has taken a significant step towards making outdoor dining a permanent part of its streetscape. With the city moving out of pandemic-era regulations, the fate of the dining sheds that have dominated the sidewalks has become a subject of debate. While many are in favor of keeping them, others argue that they are no longer necessary and have raised concerns about increased noise, congestion, and the loss of street space.
To address these concerns, the New York City Council recently passed legislation to create a system allowing businesses to set up dining sheds on city streets from April through November, while requiring their removal during the winter months. Sidewalk dining, which was allowed pre-pandemic, will still be permitted year-round, with an extension to more parts of the city.
The response to the new system has been varied, with details and requirements yet to be finalized. The processes for permitting, fees, and licensing, as well as design standards, are still being developed, with full compliance expected by November 2024.
Restaurants have welcomed the decision, even though many had hoped for permanent street dining. Andrew Rigie, executive director of the New York City Hospitality Alliance, expressed appreciation that outdoor dining will still be possible for most of the year. He believes that utilizing the roadway for dining creates a more vibrant and livable streetscape compared to using it solely for parking.
On the other hand, Leif Arntzen, a member of the Coalition United for Equitable Urban Policy, strongly opposes the expansion of sidewalk dining into roadbeds. He argues that the city should conduct an impact study on neighborhoods before making any permanent changes. Arntzen believes that the expansion of outdoor dining leads to less space for residents, less quiet, and less emergency access, favoring one industry at the expense of others.
The concerns about outdoor dining structures extend beyond their impact on city space. Some of the makeshift sheds have been criticized for their appearance, deteriorated conditions, and cases of abandonment, which contribute to an unsightly streetscape. However, not all establishments share this reputation. Mathias Van Leyden, owner of LouLou bistro in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood, pointed out that some businesses have invested significantly in outdoor structures that enhance the aesthetic and are portable. He acknowledges that some establishments have not done it right, leading to negative perceptions.
Valarie Marrs, a patron dining in a street shed in the East Village, finds the pop-up structures terrible, stating that they contribute to street clutter and compromise the aesthetics of the city. Conversely, Daniel Laitman, another customer, appreciates the sheds, especially during hot weather, as they provide a cool and breezy space.
Maulin Mehta, New York director for the Regional Plan Association, sees the recent legislation as a positive step forward. With the framework in place, Mehta believes it offers an opportunity to move beyond the emergency crisis and rethink the future of New York’s streets and sidewalks.
The upcoming changes aim to strike a balance between maintaining the appeal of outdoor dining and addressing the concerns of various stakeholders. As the new regulations are finalized and implemented, New York City will continue to shape its streetscape to accommodate outdoor dining while preserving the integrity and functionality of its neighborhoods.
