Dept. of City Planning Releases New FRESH Program Report

On February 1, 2023, the Department of City Planning updated the progress of the Food Retail Expansion to Support Health program with a new report, “FRESH By the Numbers.”. The Food Retail Expansion to Support Health (“FRESH”) program gives property owners the ability to construct slightly larger buildings in certain districts if the building includes a FRESH supermarket. The program targets neighborhoods that often lack access to fresh produce and other groceries, which <Read More>


Governor Announces Over $390 Million for Ten Affordable and Supportive Housing Projects Across the State, Four in NYC

On January 19, 2023, Governor Kathy Hochul announced that over $390 million was awarded through bonds and subsidies for affordable and supportive housing statewide. With additional private funding, over $600 million is expected to be invested to preserve over 1,600 units in ten projects across the state, including four projects within New York City. The four New York City projects are Bedford Green House Phase II in Fordham Heights in the Bronx; Shepherd Glenmore in <Read More>


Comptroller’s Report Finds Chronic Lack of Heat Issues in Over 1,000 Buildings, Recommendations to Enhance City Response

On January 9, 2023, the Office of Comptroller Brad Lander released a new report “Turn Up the Heat,” which reviews the City’s efforts in addressing chronic heat complaints. By law, from October 1 through May 31, landlords are required to maintain indoor temperatures at 68 degrees in the daytime when outdoor temperatures are below 55 degrees, and at least 62 degrees indoors at night, regardless of the outdoor temperature. Hot water must also be provided <Read More>


City Announces Lawsuits Against Two Landlords and One Settlement for Building Code Violations, Dangerous Conditions

On January 6, 2023, Mayor Eric Adams and Corporation Counsel Sylvia O. Hinds-Radix announced the filing of two lawsuits against Alma Realty Corp. and Empire Management America Corp. for the failure to fix thousands of code violations which created dangerous living conditions for tenants. Additionally, the city announced a settlement with Sentinel Real Estate Corporation to establish a timeline for repairs.