The NYC Department of Transportation has proposed a rule change that privatizes its 'Open Streets' program, allowing businesses to occupy public spaces for outdoor seating and activities. Concessions will be granted to selected businesses at approximately 200 locations, including major sites like Times Square. Critics argue this shifts the initiative from community benefit to commercial interests, with council members expressing concern over the hypocrisy of the program's aims. The change has sparked debates about public usage versus the needs of local residents and drivers.
The rule change allows restaurants and businesses to convert public roadways into spaces for profit, leveraging the Open Streets initiative intended for community use.
NYC Council Minority Leader Joann Ariola criticized the DOT's decision, suggesting it betrays the original purpose of the Open Streets program, calling it hypocritical.
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