NYCHA Receives $24.7 Million HUD Grant to Support Resident Safety and Security Needs

The funds will go toward improving security lighting and lead abatement. On December 31, 2020, the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) announced that the agency received a $24.7 million Emergency Capital Needs Safety and security Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to be used to address resident health, safety and security concerns. 


DCP Launches Updated Digital Land Use Portal, Online Application Tracker

The updated portal improves transparency and public access to the land review process. On January 14, 2021, the Department of City Planning (DCP) announced that the Zoning Application Portal (ZAP) has been expanded and updated. The Zoning Application Portal allows New Yorkers to review land use applications that are within public review. 


New Acting Transportation Commissioner Appointed as Commissioner Trottenberg Departs

The new Acting Commissioner is a 26-year veteran of the Department of Transportation. On December 4, 2020, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced that Margaret Forgione will be the Acting Commissioner of the Department of Transportation after Commissioner Polly Trottenberg departs on December 11th.


City Awards Nonprofits Over $200,000 to Help People with Disabilities Access Affordable Housing

On August 17, 2020, The New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development, along with Citi Community Development and Investment, awarded nine community-based organizations over $200,000 to help disabled New Yorkers apply for affordable housing. This assistance is provided through the Department’s Housing Ambassador Program, which connects nearly two million users on Housing Connect with community organizations that assist with the housing application process.


Small Business Services Offers Free Consultation Services for Open Restaurant Guidelines

The consultation focuses on state guidelines, outdoor seating, accessibility and personal protective equipment. On July 16, 2020, NYC Department of Small Business Services Commissioner Jonnel Doris announced the expansion of free virtual consultation services for small businesses in order to help them open up properly under the Open Restaurants guidelines and avoid fines and penalties.


Century-Old West Tremont Avenue Step Street Restoration Complete

The Step Street renovation took approximately two years to complete. On April 7, 2020, the Department of Design and Construction and the Department of Transportation announced that the restoration of West Tremont Avenue Step Street, connecting Cedar Avenue to Sedgwick Avenue, has been completed. The project was funded by Transportation and managed by Design and Construction. The restoration of the century-old stairs cost $7 million.