Council bill would aid storefronts hurt by nearby construction

A New York City Council committee has moved forward with legislation to help businesses affected by street construction and infrastructure work. The measure would direct grants to commercial tenants, community organizations and business improvement districts, with some eligible for up to $100,000 annually. Small businesses located within two blocks of such projects could also receive assistance.
A panel of the New York City Council has advanced a proposal to assist businesses disrupted by nearby roadwork and public works projects. Funding would go to commercial renters, community groups, and business improvement districts.
Certain recipients might qualify for as much as $100,000 per year. Firms operating within two blocks of those sites could also seek relief.
If approved, the grants could help commercial tenants, community organizations, and business improvement districts manage disruption tied to nearby infrastructure work. Small businesses within two blocks may gain a new source of support, potentially helping them stay open and serve employees and customers. Yet the actual effect could depend on how many qualify and how funds are administered.