Image Credit: LPC

On August 3, 2022, the Landmarks Preservation Commission announced the launch of their Business Express Service, a one-stop-shop where businesses operating in landmarked buildings can easily get permits. This Landmarks initiative aims to strengthen the City’s pandemic recovery in accordance with the Mayor’s Economic Blueprint.

The Business Express Service includes a dedicated hotline and team of preservationists who offer pre-application consultation and focused application review, supporting businesses like restaurants and retail that are located at street-level commercial spaces in designated buildings and historic districts. Various improvements are eligible for Business Express Service, including interior alterations, storefront alterations, and the installation of signs and awnings.

Landmarks has also created a straightforward application form for Business Express Service, available here.

Throughout the summer and into the fall, Landmarks staff will hold virtual Open Office Hours for business owners and their representatives. As part of the launch process, businesses can virtually meet one-on-one with the Business Express Service team to discuss potential projects and ask questions. Sign-up sheets for Open Office Hours sessions will be posted both on the Business Express Service page and the Open Office Hours page.

City Council Member Julie Menin, who serves as Chair of the Small Business Committee, stated, “Creating a one-stop-shop for business owners in landmarked properties provides a much-needed streamlined process for operators of commercial spaces in the City’s designated buildings and historic districts. I commend the Landmarks Preservation Commission for this initiative that will deliver much-needed support and efficiency as New York City continues to enhance our small business environment.”

Small Business Services Commissioner Kevin D. Kim shared, “Every step we take to strengthen the relationship between small business owners and City government is a step in the right direction toward economic recovery. This new Landmarks Preservation Commission initiative will be a guiding hand for entrepreneurs operating in landmarked buildings or designated historical districts.”

Landmarks Chair Sarah Carroll: “As the City’s economy continues to recover and grow, commercial business owners will play a critical role and we want to make sure we can help meet their demands so that they can open quickly and thrive. With the new LPC Business Express Service, our staff will work closely with business owners to ensure applications are reviewed and processed as efficiently as possible.”

Mayor Eric Adams: “New York City businesses are the lifeblood of our economy, so we must use all of the tools in our toolbox to ensure they can operate successfully. This initiative will provide our business owners the resources they need to more efficiently process applications and help them continue to thrive in the city’s landmarks and historic districts.”

By: Cassidy Strong (Cassidy is a CityLaw intern and a New York Law School student, Class of 2024.)

LPC Launches Business Express Initiative to Support NYC’s Economic Recovery, August 3, 2022.