Andrew Rigie testifies on Intro 894 seasonal enclosures for sidewalk cafes
Andrew Rigie of the NYC Hospitality Alliance supports Intro 894, arguing restaurants pay year-round for sidewalk cafe space but cannot use it in winter. He says winter vestibules would help small businesses maximize revenue and sustain worker hours during cold months.
Good afternoon.
My name is Andrew Ridgy.
I am the executive director of the New York City Hospitality Alliance.
We represent restaurants, bars, and nightclubs across the five boroughs.
Thank you for hosting today's hearing.
I'm going to testify on three bills, Intro 894, 917, and 918.
I've also submitted written testimony.
First on 894, seasonal enclosures for sidewalk cafes.
Restaurants are paying the city for a year-round license for their sidewalk cafes.
But as mentioned earlier, during the more inclement months, they're unable to really utilize that space, even though they're paying for it.
As Councilmember Brewer mentioned, we would like the ability to use high-quality winter vestibules.
You have seen restaurants that have used them in the past.
They hold up to the elements.
They allow businesses, small businesses in particular, to really maximize their revenue by using the space that they're paying for throughout the winter months.
It's also important worker protection as when the weather gets cooler, you see restaurants.
Restaurants are reducing worker hours, even eliminating some jobs because they're losing that space.
If they're able to utilize it by keeping it warm during the winter, then they will be able to sustain those jobs as well as sustain the small business revenue and giving their customers a place to sit.