DOT Celebrates Ten Years of Vision Zero

On February 15, 2024, the Department of Transportation celebrated the ten-year anniversary of the Vision Zero safety program, the City’s ongoing efforts to reduce and prevent deaths and serious injuries from traffic accidents and crashes. New York City was the first American city to develop a Vision Zero program. In over a century of recorded data, 2023 was the second safest year for pedestrians in New York City, and eight of the top ten safest <Read More>


DOT Releases Final Rules for Permanent Outdoor Dining Program

Almost two years after the City Planning Commission’s zoning text changes, applications for the permanent program are expected to open next month. On February 2, 2024, the Department of Transportation released the final rules for the permanent outdoor dining program, “Dining Out NYC.”  Through the new program, outdoor dining will be expanded citywide on sidewalks year-round and in roadways seasonally from April through November. 


License revoked for fatal injury

General contractor with riggers license violated multiple Building Code provisions on construction job where worker fell from unpermitted scaffolding. Wayne Bellet contracted to perform brick façade work on a six-story building located at 880 St. Nicholas Avenue in Manhattan. Bellet commenced the brick façade work after his subcontractor constructed a 50-foot-tall supported scaffold and Bellet. On June 22, 2019, a worker fell off the supported scaffold at the location and died.


City Continues Push in Crackdown Against Illegal Smoke Shops

On November 27, 2023, Mayor Eric Adams announced the City’s latest efforts in the push against illegal smoke shops citywide. The New York City Sheriff’s Office Joint Compliance Task Force to Address Illegal Smoke contacts landlords and owners whose tenants have previously received violations for selling tobacco or cannabis products without a proper license. The task force consists of the Sheriff’s Office, the NYPD, and the Mayor’s Office of Special Enforcement. 


DOB and Health Dept Respond to Overdoses in Construction Industry

On October 30, 2023, the Department of Buildings announced a new initiative to help combat overdoses among construction workers. A recent Department of Health survey Health revealed that construction workers led occupational groups in overdose deaths. In response to the Department of Health’s survey, both the Health and Building Departments are taking action to address the dangers of substance abuse and highlight the tools provided by the City to construction workers. Staff from both agencies … <Read More>


Council Passes Bill Establishing Trade-In Program for Lithium-Ion Batteries

On September 15, 2023, the City Council passed Int. 0949-2023, which establishes a program where individuals can trade in lithium-ion batteries or powered mobility devices that do not comply with safety standards. The bill was introduced by Council Member Keith Powers and aims to promote safety by regulating lithium-ion batteries.