In addition to our constant attention to sanitation and public safety, plans for 2004-2005 include:

A continuation of the Fashion District facelift through:

• The installation of multirack news boxes, specially designed for the FCBID by the award winning Antenna Design. The news boxes will reinforce the FCBID identity and clean up the district’s cluttered corners.

• Continued outreach to storefronts and property owners to encourage them to undertake their own facelifts by cleaning and lighting their facades, repairing sidewalks and renovating lobbies, and creating more tasteful signage and window displays.

• A renewal of the $1000 Make a Grand Entrance incentive bonus program to help property owners and retailers make important improvements to their premises.

Additional marketing of our broad range of tenant groups through:

• direct mail, advertising, the Eats & Seats restaurant and theater promotion.

Attention to quality of life issues through continued outreach as appropriate to property owners, tenants, community boards and City officials regarding the issues of:

• adult DVD stores, infrastructure repairs and improvements, street vending.

Finally, as always, our efforts will involve planning for the future of the Fashion District as we continue to raise the issue of how the City’s policies and attitude affect this Midtown neighborhood and the fashion industry. As manufacturing is expected to continue its decline, the FCBID will continue to lobby for the creation of meaningful programs to assist this important industry. Similarly, the FCBID continues to seek changes in the zoning restrictions that currently suppress rents, deter new categories of tenants from moving in, and prohibit investment in the Fashion District.

As the city’s Hudson Yards plan for the west side of Manhattan calls for major development along the Fashion District’s western border, these issues will become increasingly important. The FCBID and its Board of Directors hope that the City’s current reluctance to address the issues of zoning and manufacturing will change so that the Fashion District may become a shining gateway to the West Side, rather than a barrier. These topics are controversial and present an ongoing challenge to the FCBID. However, by continuing to raise these issues and by involving City officials, property owners and manufacturers in the dialogue, the FCBID hopes to be the catalyst for change that benefits all.

We look forward to 2004-2005 and to working with all our constituents to improve this wonderful “ Authentic New York” neighborhood!

TOP