As temperatures begin to rise and as Summer in NYC officially begins on Saturday, the City is eyeing sports and other large venues to use as cooling centers and is set to spend $55 million on air conditioners for elderly and low-income residents. On June 12, 2020, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced an update to the City’s plan to protect vulnerable New Yorkers from excessive indoor heat exposure. Now called the Get Cool NYC program, … <Read More>
Mayor
Busway and Bus Lane Projects Announced
The nine projects will benefit almost 750,000 daily riders. On June 8, 2020, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced nine busway and dedicated bus lane projects across the City. As the City begins to reopen, and commuters return to work, the new bus options are intended to increase bus speeds and address vehicular traffic concerns.
NYC Mayor Lifts Curfew Before Legal Challenges
Curfew lawsuit filed in Los Angeles, but not necessary in New York City. On June 1, 2020, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and Mayor Bill de Blasio collectively instituted a citywide curfew following four evenings of protests, which although mostly peaceful, included some instances of chaotic behavior which resulted in vandalism and property damage. The protests were in response to the death of George Floyd, police brutality, and racial injustice. George Floyd’s killing while in … <Read More>
UPDATED: Mayor’s Office Outlines Further Guidance as City Enters Phase One Reopening
Starting June 8th, retail, manufacturing, construction and other industries can resume operations with restrictions. On May 28, 2020, Mayor Bill de Blasio laid out the additional guidance for industries that will be allowed to reopen under Phase One of the State’s reopening plan, NY Forward. While other parts of the state have already been allowed to reopen, New York City has remained shut down to reduce the spread of COVID-19. As the number of … <Read More>
NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio Signs COVID-19 Relief Bills Into Law
Local Law addressing personal liability provisions in commercial leases raises constitutional law discussion. On May 26, 2020, Mayor Bill de Blasio signed seven COVID-19 relief bills into law during New York City’s first ever virtual bill signing. Among the laws, Local Law 55 of 2020, sponsored by Council Member Carlina Rivera, temporarily prevents the enforcement of personal liability provisions in commercial leases or rental agreements involving COVID-19 impacted tenants. The law also makes it a … <Read More>
Mayor de Blasio Closes Beaches for Swimming
“No swimming, no parties, no sports, no gatherings.” On May 17, 2020, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio announced that the City will not open its beaches for swimming on Memorial Day weekend or in the foreseeable future. The Mayor explained during a press conference that despite this decision, people will be permitted to walk the beach so as long as they do not congregate. This weekend and going forward, beach patrons can expect … <Read More>