Mayor Bill de Blasio Announces Open Storefronts Program

Following the success of the Open Restaurants and Open Streets programs, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced the Open Storefronts program today, which will provide safe spaces for small businesses to display merchandise, sell goods, complete transactions, and provide queuing areas to their customers. This effort is part of the Mayor's recovery agenda, which aims to help small businesses rebound in these challenging economic times and centered on public health and social justice. The Open Storefronts program is scheduled to begin Oct. 30 and run through Dec. 31. 

An eight-foot clear path of sidewalk from the curb must be maintained in order for Open Storefronts to operate, according to the City. Retailers can't use the space of adjacent businesses, and all furniture and goods must be brought indoors when the store closes. If the business is located on an existing "Open Street," the business will also be permitted to use the curb lane directly fronting their storefront to conduct business during their operating hours. Businesses can visit nyc.gov/openstorefronts to review eligibility requirements and to complete the online application.