BROOKLYN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEW YORK CITY LEGISLATIVE AGENDA

Transcription

1 BROOKLYN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEW YORK CITY LEGISLATIVE AGENDA 2017

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS JOINT LETTER FROM BOARD CHAIR, PRESIDENT & CEO, AND GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE CO-CHAIRS 1 NEW YORK CITY REPRESENTATIVES AND THE BROOKLYN DELEGATION 2-3 OUR MEMBERSHIP 4-5 OVERVIEW OF OUR 2017 MEMBER ISSUES SURVEY 6-7 WHERE WE STAND IN SUMMARY 8-9 WHERE WE STAND IN DETAIL Small Business 10 Transportation and Infrastructure 11 Real Estate and Development 14 Manufacturing 17 Energy and Environment 20 Higher Education 21 Workforce Development 22 Minority/Women-Owned Business Enterprises (M/WBEs) 25 Veteran Affairs 27 Arts and Culture 28 Travel and Tourism 29 BROOKLYN NIGHT SPONSORS 32 Dear Colleague, The Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce is proud to present its inaugural New York City Legislative Agenda. Although we have long sponsored an annual legislative visit to Albany, and more recently, to Washington, D.C., we felt it was time to focus on the elected officials and government agencies right here in New York City. The City Legislative Agenda s primary purpose is to promote Brooklyn as the best place to do business. Here, you will find the Chamber s positions on a variety of city policies that impact the borough s economy, from transit and infrastructure, to energy and environment, to workforce development. It s an exciting time in Brooklyn, but with economic growth comes many challenges. We believe the borough s economy and growth can be adapted to provide equitable opportunity for all Brooklynites. Supporting this new economy should be a priority for the Mayor s administration, the City Council and policymakers, and as such, we encourage them to follow our work on the Brooklyn Innovation Coast, the thriving area of economic growth and investment that stretches from Sunset Park to Greenpoint and Bushwick. We strongly endorse the building of the BQX streetcar line that should connect it all. It s a time of growth and success for the Chamber; as we approach our 100th year of doing business in Brooklyn, we are continuing to make our programs, services and events bigger and better. We were incredibly honored to be named the 2017 Chamber of the Year by The Business Council of New York State, and we hope to build on that success as we move on to our Centennial Gala and beyond! Today s visit would not be possible without the work of our Board of Directors and the Chamber s Government Affairs Committee, which have expended great effort in building up positive relationships with the elected officials who represent Brooklyn, city agencies and citywide elected officials. And of course, we would be remiss if we did not thank our members, who drive all that we do. Here s to another 100 years of business in Brooklyn! Best regards, Andrew Hoan President & CEO Denise Arbesu Chair, Board of Directors Antonia Yuille-Williams Co-Chair, Government Affairs Committee Gil Cygler Co-Chair, Government Affairs Committee page 1

3 NEW CITY REPRESENTATIVES Mayor Hon. Bill de Blasio Speaker, NYC Council Hon. Melissa Mark-Viverito Comptroller Hon. Scott M. Stringer Public Advocate Hon. Letitia James THE BROOKLYN DELEGATION Hon. Inez D. Barron Hon. Robert E. Cornegy, Jr. Hon. Laurie A. Cumbo Hon. Chaim M. Deutsch Hon. Rafael L. Espinal, Jr. Hon. Mathieu Eugene Hon. Vincent J. Gentile Hon. David G. Greenfield Hon. Brad Lander Hon. Stephen T. Levin Hon. Alan N. Maisel Hon. Darlene Mealy Hon. Carlos Menchaca Hon. Antonio Reynoso Hon. Mark Treyger Hon. Jumaane D. Williams page 2 page 3

4 OUR MEMBERSHIP CONCENTRATION OF MEMBERSHIP BY NEIGHBORHOOD PERCENTAGE OF MEMBERSHIP BY TRADE GREENPOINT GREENPOINT WILLIAMSBURG WILLIAMSBURG BUSHWICK BUSHWICK BROOKLYN BROOKLYN HEIGHTS HEIGHTS DOWNTOWN DOWNTOWN BROOKLYN BROOKLYN CYPRESS CYPRESS HILLS HILLS FORT FORT GREENE GREENE BEDFORD-STUYVESANT BEDFORD-STUYVESANT COBBLE COBBLE HILL HILL CROWN CROWN HEIGHTS HEIGHTS CARROLL CARROLL GARDENS/RED GARDENS/RED HOOK HOOK PROSPECT PROSPECT HEIGHTS HEIGHTS PARK PARK SLOPE/GOWANUS SLOPE/GOWANUS BROWNSVILLE BROWNSVILLE EAST EAST NEW NEW YORK YORK PARK PARK SLOPE/WINDSOR SLOPE/WINDSOR TERRACE TERRACE EAST EAST FLATBUSH FLATBUSH FLATBUSH FLATBUSH SUNSET SUNSET PARK PARK KENSINGTON/WINDSOR TERRACE KENSINGTON/WINDSOR TERRACE CANARSIE CANARSIE BOROUGH BOROUGH PARK PARK BAY BAY RIDGE RIDGE MIDWOOD MIDWOOD DYKER DYKER HEIGHTS HEIGHTS BENSONHURST BENSONHURST FORT FORT HAMILTON HAMILTON FLATLANDS/MILL FLATLANDS/MILL BASIN BASIN GRAVESEND GRAVESEND SHEEPSHEAD SHEEPSHEAD BAY/BRIGHTON BAY/BRIGHTON BEACH BEACH CONEY CONEY ISLAND ISLAND page 4 page 5

5 HIGHLIGHTS OF OUR 2017 MEMBER ISSUES SURVEY Key Findings Every year, through the Brooklyn Chamber s Member Issues Survey, Chamber member are polled on a variety of topics, from their outlook on their respective businesses and the economy to their greatest obstacles to growth. Here are some other key findings that we wanted to highlight: Displacement is a top issue for our members, as 90% expressed concern about its impact on small businesses. mom+pop! An average of 70% of our members support a recent package of bills aimed at providing a more conducive business environment for nightlife establishments. Recommendations put forward by our Members to address the top issue of displacement include: Expand buy local campaigns Rent subsidies for small business owners Commercial zoning protections Resources to help small businesses adapt to change Tax credits for landlords who provide long-term leases The top two areas that our members would like the Administration, and New York City Council to focus on are Infrastructure, and Public Transportation. page 6 page 7

6 WHERE WE STAND SMALL BUSINESS Int (Johnson and Cornegy, Jr.) Create an on-site Compliance Consultation Program for Businesses SUPPORT Int (Espinal) Repeal of City s Cabaret Law SUPPORT Enact Legislation that Supports an Innovative/Shared Economy SUPPORT More Space Options for Micro Businesses to Grow SUPPORT TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE Brooklyn-Queens Connector (BQX) SUPPORT Incentives for Businesses along the L Train Line SUPPORT Expand Bike Share Program SUPPORT Ferry Service Expansion in Brooklyn SUPPORT Extension of the Utica Avenue Subway Line SUPPORT Funding for Transportation SUPPORT REAL ESTATE AND DEVELOPMENT Additional Resources to Enable Better Functioning of Department of Buildings SUPPORT Int. 799A (Garodnick), Exempt Commercial Tenants Paying Less than $500,000 per year in rent, from the Commercial Rent Tax (CRT) SUPPORT Bedford Union Armory Project SUPPORT Gowanus Neighborhood Planning Study SUPPORT Int (Williams) Construction Site Safety Training for Workers REVIEW RECOMMENDED Industry City Rezoning - SUPPORT MANUFACTURING Package for NYC Garment Manufacturing Industry SUPPORT North Brooklyn Industry and Innovation Plan SUPPORT Affordable Manufacturing Spaces Amidst Shifts in the Real Estate Market SUPPORT Reduce Parking Requirement in M-Zone Areas SUPPORT Update Use Groups and Performance Standards on M-Zoning in the NYC Zoning Resolution - SUPPORT HIGHER EDUCATION Continued Investment and Support of Brooklyn s Higher Education Institutions - SUPPORT WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT Int (Cornegy, Jr.) Create a Small Business Workforce Development Plan SUPPORT Establish Career Centers in IBZs SUPPORT Spur Strong Partnership between Community Organizations and the Mayor s Career Pathways Workforce Development Program SUPPORT Place SYEP Recipients in More STEM Related Jobs SUPPORT Skilled Workforce and Sector-Based Training Opportunities SUPPORT MINORITY/WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESS ENTERPRISES (M/WBES) Int (Rosenthal) Increased Participation of Minority-and Women-Owned Business Enterprises in Construction Projects Related to Properties Receiving Tax Benefits in Accordance with the Industrial and Commercial Abatement Program (ICAP) SUPPORT Improved Connection between NYC, NYS and Federal Certification Processes SUPPORT Enact Legislation to Create More Opportunities for Women Entrepreneurs/ Strengthen Women Entrepreneurs in NYC (WE NYC) SUPPORT VETERAN AFFAIRS Incentives for Veterans Looking to Start a Business SUPPORT Incentives for Businesses who Hire Veterans SUPPORT Int (Ulrich) - A Local Law to Amend the Administrative Code of the City of New York, in Relation to the Creation of a Veterans Resource Guide SUPPORT ARTS AND CULTURE Additional Investment in the Music and Film Industry SUPPORT Brooklyn Cultural District SUPPORT TRAVEL AND TOURISM Brooklyn Bridge Tourist Cart SUPPORT Widening the Brooklyn Bridge Walking and Biking Path SUPPORT Brooklyn! Sign Proposal SUPPORT Additional Convention Centers in Brooklyn SUPPORT ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT Res (Espinal) Resolution Calling upon the Governor and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to Commit to an Expeditious Transition to an Electric Bus Fleet and to use Electric Buses as a Robust part of its Replacement Service during the Upcoming L Train Shutdown SUPPORT Int (Richards) Create a Green Project Accelerator SUPPORT page 8 page 9

7 SMALL BUSINESS INT (JOHNSON AND CORNEGY, JR.) CREATE AN ON-SITE COMPLIANCE CONSULTATION PROGRAM FOR BUSINESSES SUPPORT This bill aims to create an on-site compliance consultation program for businesses, whereby owners would be able to request an on-site compliance consultation following the issuance of a violation. Upon completion of the consultation, the business owner may then request that any civil penalties imposed in connection with such violation be waived. The Brooklyn Chamber supports this piece of legislation because it seeks to reduce the burden of civil penalties on small businesses and provide them with alternatives to correct compliance issues. In our 2017 City Member Issues Survey, 31 percent of respondents expressed that the reduction of government regulations, fines and violations should be a top priority for city leaders. Further, in our State Member Issue Surveys, these issues have emerged in the top 10 list of obstacles to doing business for the past five years. Int will help business owners to correct violations, while avoiding fines, and is the type of forward-thinking approach needed to nurture the growth and development of small businesses in our city. INT (ESPINAL) REPEAL OF CITY S CABARET LAW SUPPORT We support this law which repeals the requirement in the Administrative Code for public dance halls, cabarets, and catering establishments to obtain a license. Nightlife establishments contribute greatly to job creation and economic stability in our city. If they are to thrive, they will need more support and less red tape from government agencies, as exemplified with this repeal. ENACT LEGISLATION THAT SUPPORTS AN INNOVATIVE/SHARED ECONOMY SUPPORT We encourage the enactment of legislation that fairly regulates the shared economy, while protecting consumers and ensuring fair competition. Micro-entrepreneurs can use their existing resources to earn income, while contributing to economic vibrancy in neighborhoods. As new technology emerges, New Yorkers should be able to explore non-traditional alternatives for earning an honest income to help offset page 10 page 11 expenses associated with raising a family, debt and even the acquisition of start-up funds to open small businesses. In addition, many college students are also commercializing their work while in school, forming companies and products. Access to resources to assist these innovations is vital to ensuring they are scalable ventures once students graduate. These measures make economic sense and add significant revenue to neighborhoods by boosting tourism, increasing foot traffic along commercial strips and increasing support to cultural establishments, especially in the outer boroughs. In the Brooklyn Chamber s 2016 State Member Issues Survey, respondents were asked if they agreed with the prospect of expanding the use of ride-sharing and home-sharing applications across the state. 54 percent said that they were in support of this measure, and 26 percent said that they strongly supported it. It is our hope that our elected officials support legislation that adapts to the new shared economy while protecting consumers and ensuring fair competition. MORE SPACE OPTIONS FOR MICRO BUSINESSES TO GROW SUPPORT Options such as incubators and co-working locations provide a safe space, with necessary technical support and resources, critical to the early stages of business development. In addition, such spaces are fertile ground for collaborative business development, especially for new entrepreneurs. Creating a strategic plan to address the needs of new business owners, by way of affordable and supportive work space, would give them strong footing and increase their success rates. TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE BROOKLYN-QUEENS CONNECTOR (BQX) SUPPORT The Brooklyn Chamber strongly supports the Brooklyn Queens Connector (BQX) project, a waterfront streetcar that would run from Sunset Park to Astoria. The impacts of the construction of this streetcar would be a game changer for New York City. Along the East River waterfront, there has been profound economic growth through the construction of residential, commercial and industrial projects. New families, retail, makers, and office tenants have filled these new spaces and transformed the waterfront into an innovation corridor. In the Brooklyn Chamber s 2017 City Member Issues Survey, 34 percent of those surveyed

8 expressed optimism about the BQX and 13 percent mentioned that they were very optimistic in this regard. The project comes with challenges that require public action to deliver infrastructure to support private efforts. Intra/inter-borough mass transit has long been and continues to be a challenge for this corridor. INCENTIVES FOR BUSINESSES ALONG THE L TRAIN LINE - SUPPORT In April 2017, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) announced plans to do a complete shutdown of the L train to necessitate rehabilitation of the line s Carnarsie Tunnel. This shutdown is expected to begin in April, 2019 and to last for 15 months. From Canarsie, to Bushwick, to Williamsburg L train ridership is diverse and dependent on the train to get to work, school and doctor s appointments etc. In addition, the local businesses along the L line are at risk of closing, since they are heavily dependent on it to maintain brisk foot traffic. Earlier this year, the Brooklyn Chamber collaborated with the North Brooklyn Chamber to conduct a survey of small businesses along the L train line in North Brooklyn to gauge how they may be impacted by the shutdown. According to this survey, 40 percent of the businesses expected a loss of up to 50 percent. In addition, 75 percent mentioned that their employees rely on the L train to get to their places of work. Therefore, we respectfully ask that our legislators join the Brooklyn Chamber in advocating for businesses along the L line by providing tax incentives that will help them to keep up with already high operational costs, (in the face of potential decreased sales.) Options such as additional cars on the elevated lines, for instance the J, M, Z, and G trains should also be considered. EXPAND BIKE SHARE PROGRAM SUPPORT In April, 2017, Citi Bike announced Phase 2 of its expansion proposal to increase the current system from 10,000 bicycles to 12,000 bicycles, and 610 stations to 750 stations by the end of this year. This expansion is supported by 69 percent of our Members who participated in a survey on city wide issues. Biking is an effective transportation alternative that is seeing increased demand from both New Yorkers and tourists. It provides a relatively affordable and energyefficient way to get around, especially in areas not easily accessible by train or bus. Additional expansion, especially in industrial hubs, is needed in light of the city s commitment to invest in more manufacturing and innovation hubs. Biking would be a natural extension of existing transportation structures that will benefit workers and residents in these areas. We also encourage increased engagement between the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) and residents as it relates to installing bike lanes in a way that would adequately balance the needs of bikers, drivers and pedestrians. FERRY SERVICE EXPANSION IN BROOKLYN -SUPPORT May 2017 marked the highly anticipated launch of the South Brooklyn Route in the city s ferry system. This route connects residents and workers from Bay Ridge, Sunset Park, Red Hook, Brooklyn Bridge Park and Lower Manhattan, and shortens the commute for thousands of New Yorkers. Seventy-two percent of Members surveyed supported this expansion, and noted that there should be additional investment in ferry expansion across the city. The next phase of expansion should include connections for other waterfront communities such as Canarsie, Coney Island and Sheepshead Bay. More specifically, we encourage our legislators to consider a proposal for creating a ferry stop at Kingsborough Community College in Manhattan Beach, Brooklyn - giving residents in southern Brooklyn and the Rockaways in Queens access to specialized higher education and workforce development programming being offered at the college. It is our hope that the members of the New York City Council will work collaboratively with the Mayor s administration to enhance the expansion plan. EXTENSION OF THE UTICA AVENUE SUBWAY LINE SUPPORT This project was proposed by Mayor de Blasio in 2015, and suggested bringing the 3 and 4 trains down from the Eastern Parkway stop, towards and through East Flatbush. In East Flatbush alone, there are approximately 105,000 residents who could really benefit from additional and more efficient transportation options. East Flatbush is facing record high vacancy rates along its commercial strips, and this project may actually help support their survival by allowing more locals and tourists better access to their storefronts. The Brooklyn Chamber urges expeditious movement to the next stage of this plan to include a feasibility study and financing plan. In addition, we encourage dialogue between the administration and local community leaders, as well as other stakeholders. page 12 page 13

9 FUNDING FOR TRANSPORTATION - SUPPORT For the first time in the Brooklyn Chamber s history of doing State Member Issues survey, respondents cited traffic and transportation problems as the number one obstacle to doing business. This speaks volumes about the need for solid investments in New York City s transportation system to be able to meet the growing number of riders, particularly in the face of the complete shutdown of the L train. In the City Member Issues survey, 84 percent of our respondents stated that they had personally experienced delays in the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) system, as well as their employees. Of this number, 48 percent cited these delays as having a negative effect on their business. REAL ESTATE AND DEVELOPMENT ADDITIONAL RESOURCES TO ENABLE BETTER FUNCTIONING OF DEPARTMENT OF BUILDINGS SUPPORT The New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) plays a very important role in making our commercial and residential buildings safe, and expanding New York s skyline. This is no small feat, and as such, we are advocating for additional resources to be added to the operational budget at DOB, which will help to purchase new technology and support additional jobs to reduce the processing time for applications and permits. In the Brooklyn Chamber s 2016 State Member Issues Survey, 56 percent of respondents said that they had seen an overall increase in revenue, when compared with Of this number, 67 percent mentioned plans to expand their business this year, which could lead to commercial and residential real estate development. However, approval for building expansion and other construction projects are in some cases subject to very long delays. In 2015, the Mayor s Office of Operations released a report, titled Building One City, which outlined some challenges and opportunities at DOB. Highlighted was the need to increase staffing and streamline its organizational structure to keep pace with increased demand for development plans. While some construction professionals, businesses and homeowners have access to specialists that may be able to expedite the processing of applications and amendments, other individuals do not and this puts a strain on financial and human resources. Small business liaisons at DOB, as well as connected agencies would help create a more streamlined review and approval process. INT. 799A (GARODNICK), EXEMPT COMMERCIAL TENANTS PAYING LESS THAN $500,000 PER YEAR IN RENT, FROM THE COMMERCIAL RENT TAX (CRT) SUPPORT Earlier this year, Council Member Daniel Garodnick introduced Int. 799A, which would exempt commercial tenants paying less than $500,000 per year in rent from the commercial rent tax (CRT). CRT only applies to Manhattan businesses below 96th Street, but many stakeholders believe that CRT negatively impacts the city s overall economic climate. In the Brooklyn Chamber s 2017 City Member Issues Survey, 56 percent of respondents agreed with the previous statement. Council Member Garodnick made the case that Manhattan entrepreneurs employ residents and support other enterprises from across the city of New York -- not just Manhattan. When business owners are forced to pay the 3.9 percent CRT on top of their rent, they have less money for wages and for hiring additional employees. They are also less likely to have the ability to pay for upgrades and renovations. This puts a dent in our city s economic potential and overall business climate. In July 2017 the Brooklyn Chamber joined the other members of the 5 Borough Chamber Alliance in a sign-on letter to Mayor Bill de Blasio, expressing support of Int. 799A. Our unified position is that the hallmarks of New York City s businesses have always been diversity, community connection, and access to opportunity for all citizens. CRT reform provides avenues for job creation, wage increases, and further investment in the local economy across the five boroughs. BEDFORD UNION ARMORY PROJECT SUPPORT The Brooklyn Chamber recognizes that a healthy business environment relies on the well-being of its citizens and the communities where they live and play. Therefore, we support adaptive re-use of this property to meet the need for affordable housing, and community space in this neighborhood. GOWANUS NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING STUDY SUPPORT As a rezoning plan is being considered for Gowanus, the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) is currently engaging local residents to determine the best approach to safely and effectively utilize this area, while benefiting existing residents and attracting new investment. This process is referred to as the Gowanus Neighborhood Planning Study, and builds upon a previous Bridging Gowanus planning process, which was led by local elected officials, and sought to shape a sustainable, livable, and inclusive future for the Gowanus neighborhood. page 14 page 15

10 In the Bridging Gowanus planning process, residents outlined several important considerations before the implementation of rezoning, such as guaranteed investments in sustainable infrastructure, protections for local manufacturers, as well as affordable housing, and mixed-use construction. As such, additional community engagement at this crucial stage will create a strategic and inclusive approach to better define and implement goals of a rezoning. This rezoning study will be beneficial in addressing the need for additional housing, retail, commercial, and manufacturing spaces, to keep pace with development. INT (WILLIAMS) CONSTRUCTION SITE SAFETY TRAINING FOR WORKERS REVIEW RECOMMENDED The importance of creating and maintaining a safe work environment cannot be underestimated, and should be the guiding principle in daily operations. Int seeks to streamline this process by specifying certain training and qualification requirements for workers engaged in construction and demolition projects. However, in its current form, this bill could unintentionally increase the cost of doing business, leading to a reduction in opportunities for hiring. This legislation outlines several prudent conditions for workers to satisfy the requirements to obtain a Site Safety Training Card, including the completion of a 100-hour certification comprised of technical training and an apprenticeship program. However, business owners would be required to pay workers per usual, even though workers may have to spend significant time away from the construction site, negatively impacting the construction project, and by extension, its workers. Therefore, the Brooklyn Chamber recommends a further review of this bill in a way that increases safety awareness at construction sites with minimal loss to productivity. INDUSTRY CITY REZONING - SUPPORT Rezoning presents a valuable opportunity to maximize the use of this dynamic hub with the addition of more mixed-use construction in the area. In using this approach Industry City would still be an innovative space for Brooklyn manufacturers and also launch many of them into retail. MANUFACTURING PACKAGE FOR NYC GARMENT MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY SUPPORT In March, 2017 the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC), in partnership with the Council of Fashion Designers of America and Garment District Alliance announced a 10-year, $51 million investment package to stabilize, nurture and grow garment manufacturing in New York City. Key components of this plan include assisting manufacturers with access to improved technology, workforce development, and providing grants to cover relocation, expansion and other costs for businesses that want to move to the Brooklyn Army Terminal - an innovative city-owned complex in Sunset Park. These options will be available to garment manufacturers across the five boroughs. This announcement came in light of the threat of additional displacement being faced by small businesses in the current Garment District in Manhattan, which may see that neighborhood losing special zoning protections for garment factories that have been in place since As such, these businesses are at risk of closing their doors, which will have a very negative ripple effect on employment and economic development throughout the entire city. The Brooklyn Chamber is very optimistic about the added security against displacement, and much needed technical support that these businesses stand to gain. Therefore, we welcome this initiative and stand ready to work with all stakeholders to offer our extensive suite of business, and workforce development services on-site at the Brooklyn Army Terminal. In addition, we see an opportunity to work with our Chamber on the Go counterparts in the other boroughs to bring program awareness and direct assistance to factories that are thinking of relocating, or are in the process of relocating to make for a smooth and effective transition. However, we encourage additional dialogue between city representatives and current tenants in the Manhattan Garment District, as some have expressed concern about additional travel time to Brooklyn. While the proposed plan includes direct grants for employee transportation, perhaps a special relocation credit for employees may be more of an incentive to change locations. page 16 page 17

11 NORTH BROOKLYN INDUSTRY AND INNOVATION PLAN SUPPORT In September, 2016 the New York City Department of City Planning (DCP) identified North Brooklyn as fertile ground for strengthening and expanding the existing structure of an Industrial Business Zone to meet the growing needs of the city s manufacturers and innovators. To that end, this initiative is aimed at preserving and growing such jobs, improving the quality of life of workers and residents in this area, identifying opportunities to enhance existing transportation and infrastructure; and also effectively adapt to environmental and resiliency challenges. The Brooklyn Chamber s 2016 Economic Assessment of the borough s economy, confirmed that Brooklyn continues to be a magnet for technology and innovation, and there is a need for new and refurbished commercial space including manufacturing facilities, as this industry continues to grow. This plan is very timely, and the Brooklyn Chamber supports it because it will better enable the borough to keep pace with emerging innovation projects. AFFORDABLE MANUFACTURING SPACES AMIDST SHIFTS IN THE REAL ESTATE MARKET - SUPPORT Specialty manufacturers in Brooklyn tend to be smaller firms, with fewer than 20 employees and small-run production. As such, they tend to need smaller manufacturing facilities, close in proximity to major transportation hubs, for ease of commuting (9am-5pm schedules are uncommon, and production is often done during nighttime shifts) and so they can easily transport their goods via commercial vehicles. However, there is a limited stock of small manufacturing spaces in Brooklyn, and those that are available are out of the square-footage price point affordable to manufacturers. The average asking rent for an industrial property in Brooklyn ranges (depending on location and amenities) from $15 PSF to $30 PSF, and this figure increases dramatically for more desired, central areas of Brooklyn. Asking rents have increased an average of 15 percent year over year since 2011, while vacancies are extremely low and stock is continually reduced by industrial property conversion. REDUCE PARKING REQUIREMENT IN M-ZONE AREAS SUPPORT Ninety percent of manufacturing zones in New York City have extremely burdensome parking requirements. In M1-1, M1-2, M1-3, M2-1, M2-2, and M2-3 districts, one parking space is required per 1,000 square foot per floor area or 1 space per 3 employees, whichever is higher. For example, if an owner or developer wanted to build a 40,000 square foot industrial building on a 20,000 square foot vacant lot, at least 40 parking spaces would have to be required. The requirement for adding these parking spaces equate to added cost of overall development which deters owners and developers from building and adding much needed industrial buildings to NYC s current supply. UPDATE USE GROUPS AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS ON M-ZONING IN THE NYC ZONING RESOLUTION - SUPPORT Use groups and performance standards determine what can be located in a given manufacturing area (M1,M2,M3) with the more noxious uses being designated for the latter M zones. This has been in existence in the NYC Zoning Code since The issue is that the mandate is anachronistic with references to outdated modes of technology, such as typewriters. Technological advancement in the manufacturing sphere has proliferated since the advent of what was considered high tech in the 1961 Resolution. Many high tech manufacturing processes of the modern day, such as 3-D Printing, do not fall into a specific use group according to the 1961 Resolution and, therefore, many ambiguities arise. The 1961 use groups cater to the former smokestack industrial uses of the time and are not relevant with modern day industrial uses that often occur in flexible spaces. A comprehensive overhaul of the performance standards and use groups that closely align with modern day trends is direly needed. We need to continue to support manufacturing facilities such as Industry City, the Brooklyn Navy Yard, Brooklyn Army Terminal, and 630 Flushing Avenue, as well as incentivize the development of additional manufacturing facilities for smaller tenants. In addition, we need to protect designated Industrial Business Zones, and associated benefits such as the Relocation and Expansion Assistance Program (REAP) and Industrial & Commercial Abatement Program (ICAP) incentives, affordable space and local business development resources. page 18 page 19

12 ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT RES (ESPINAL) RESOLUTION CALLING UPON THE GOVERNOR AND THE METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY TO COMMIT TO AN EXPEDITIOUS TRANSITION TO AN ELECTRIC BUS FLEET AND TO USE ELECTRIC BUSES AS A ROBUST PART OF ITS REPLACEMENT SERVICE DURING THE UPCOMING L TRAIN SHUTDOWN SUPPORT Sponsored by Brooklyn Council Members Raphael L. Espinal, Stephen T. Levin and Vincent Gentile, this resolution is aimed at reducing the risk of increased pollution, especially in areas that already have unusually poor air quality. In a 2015 report published by the New York City Department of Health, about understanding how community conditions affect our physical and mental health, the asthma hospitalization rate among children ages 5 to 14 in East New York and Starrett City was said to be higher than the other Brooklyn and citywide rates. Further, the report stated that the rate of avoidable adult asthma hospitalization in East New York and Starrett City was higher than the other Brooklyn and citywide rates. During the 15-month shutdown of the L train, there will be a significant increase in car and bus traffic, which will generate higher carbon emissions in neighborhoods along the L line. This will undoubtedly put the more than 200,000 daily commuters who take this train at risk of developing, or making worse health conditions directly related to air quality, such as asthma. This resolution represents a responsible approach to protecting the health of residents, by transitioning to electric buses during the shutdown, so as not to exacerbate what will be an already challenging situation. This approach would also be in line with a key component in Mayor de Blasio s OneNYC for New York City Plan to have the cleanest air quality compared to any other U.S. city by In this plan, Mayor de Blasio will focus on developing a comprehensive plan to create the largest electric vehicle fleet of any U.S. city, cutting municipal vehicle emissions in half by 2025 and 80 percent by 2035 and serving as a model for the private sector and other 21st century cities in fighting climate change. Res is a timely call for action in terms of expediting and expanding implementation of our air quality goals, and should be enacted. INT (RICHARDS) CREATE A GREEN PROJECT ACCELERATOR SUPPORT In the wake of visible climate change, the green movement is rapidly expanding as a way of life for many. This extends to building construction whereby sustainability, and corporate social responsibility go hand in hand. The Brooklyn Chamber encourages more green construction in the borough, and pays homage to leaders in this field with the National Grid Award for Energy Efficiency at our annual Building Brooklyn Awards. If implemented, Int will be very instrumental in cutting red tape that sometimes unknowingly delays the construction of green projects, as it proposes the creation of a green project accelerator. The accelerator would establish a program to ensure expedited review and approval of applications and other documents submitted to the New York City Department of Buildings in connection with green projects, provide guidance to applicants in connection with such projects and receive and respond to comments, questions and complaints with respect to this program. Further, the accelerator would coordinate with agencies to ensure that policies are in place to encourage the installation and maintenance of green projects and make recommendations to the Commissioner of Buildings and the heads of other agencies with respect to streamlining the process for obtaining the necessary approvals to install and maintain green projects. The creation of this role will create an effective pathway to expanding the number of sustainable construction projects, bring additional investment to our city and the borough and create more green jobs. HIGHER EDUCATION CONTINUED INVESTMENT AND SUPPORT OF BROOKLYN S HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS - SUPPORT Our higher education partners are not only an economic engine to the borough on their own, but they are providing talent for our businesses and organizations, as well as inspiring entrepreneurs to form new products and businesses. The borough s higher education institutions are helping to spur a generation of innovators and makers through countless publicly accessible programs so that the youth of Brooklyn are being exposed at an early age to the skills needed for 21st century jobs. page 20 page 21

13 The city has long supported many programs at Brooklyn s higher education institutions that engage the community in various way, such as programs that provide direct dental care to children, and capital assistance for prototyping equipment for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) programs. Therefore, the Brooklyn Chamber encourages continued investment in higher education institutions, both in programmatic support and in capital assistance, that will spur future collaborations among academics, industry, and non-profits throughout the borough and strengthen our workforce. WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INT (CORNEGY, JR.) CREATE A SMALL BUSINESS WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PLAN SUPPORT If enacted, Int would see the New York City Department of Small Business Services (SBS) lead the charge in creating a comprehensive workforce development plan based on the results of a related state of small business survey referenced in Int The plan would include the need for and types of training programs necessary for small business workers to fill existing small business jobs; how to connect the public to these training programs; and how to connect qualified potential small business employees with small business jobs. In the Brooklyn Chamber s own 2016 State Member Issues Survey, 52 percent of participants indicated that they plan to hire 1 to 5 new employees in However, 33 percent said that finding and hiring qualified workers is a problem. The small business survey and workforce development plan that is being proposed in both Int. 1510, and Int will help to better identify key issues in finding qualified employees and present information that will help agencies to make informed decisions on ways to effectively address those issues. The training programs outlined in the proposal are very important pillar in this process, since they will save small businesses time and money on having to train workers themselves. ESTABLISH CAREER CENTERS IN IBZS SUPPORT One of the 10 points in Mayor de Blasio s Industrial Action Plan released in 2015 was to place career centers in Industrial Business Zones (IBZs). It is a beneficial action plan that needs to be implemented as there are still an ample amount of openings for industrial positions but a lack of job placements. Launched in May, 2016, the Workforce1 Industrial and Transportation Career Center at the Brooklyn Army Terminal is a successful model of a career center being placed within an IBZ. As a result, it is expected that 1,000 New Yorkers will find new and better jobs in the industrial and manufacturing sectors. The Brooklyn Chamber supports this effort and encourages further expansion throughout the borough in other IBZ s. SPUR STRONG PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS AND THE MAYOR S CAREER PATHWAYS WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM - SUPPORT Mayor de Blasio overhauled the city s workforce development efforts and created Career Pathways. The program entails investing in middle-skill job training for up to 30,000 people each year, prioritizing good-paying fulltime job placements at workforce agencies, and requiring companies doing business with the city to move New Yorkers to the front of the hiring line. Strong partnerships between non-profits that perform workforce development assistance and the city s Career Pathways program need to be executed. Engaging institutions of higher learning in this process can also prove to be a very valuable partnership The resources provided by the city will be more effectively used with on-the-ground knowledge provided by community organizations, and institutions of higher learning regarding the local job market and the issues that candidates and employers face in terms of hiring. PLACE SYEP RECIPIENTS IN MORE STEM RELATED JOBS SUPPORT The City s Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) provides New York City youth between the ages of 14 and 24 with paid summer employment for up to six weeks in July and August. It is a very successful program as in 2016 alone there were approximately 60,000 jobs filled on 10,000 work sites. In June 2017, Mayor de Blasio released his 10-year New York Works, which predicts that 100,000 jobs will be created, with a heavy focus on technologyrelated fields such as cyber security, life sciences and healthcare. To adequately prepare our children to take advantage of these opportunities, the city needs more placements in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) fields. Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) supports that assertion. Employment in occupations related to STEM is projected to grow to more than 9 million between 2012 and STEM placements will also expose our City s youth to these subjects and make then college ready if they wanted to pursue a career in STEM. page 22 page 23

14 SKILLED WORKFORCE AND SECTOR-BASED TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES SUPPORT Jobs in the manufacturing sector are a pathway to the middle class, especially for immigrants and people with low educational attainment. Wages in the manufacturing sector are higher than other industries, such as retail, transportation, administration, and entertainment sectors. In Brooklyn and the rest of New York City, there is a substantial lack of skilled workers equipped with training necessary for manufacturing positions. Not enough workers are entering the manufacturing job market by way of training and those that possess the required skills are aging out of the workforce at a faster rate than those entering the workforce. Not only does this affect the job prospects and economic prosperity of our population, but it also affects retention of manufacturing firms, as they cannot remain competitive and grow if they cannot find skilled workers to fill available positions. The positions in question range across manufacturing sub-sectors like apparel, furniture, and food production, which are the most prevalent types of firms in Brooklyn. Jobs such as sewing-machine operators, patternmakers, cabinet makers, production assistants, woodworkers, and welders are just some of the positions that are increasingly difficult to fill with today s workforce. Suitable training would provide an opportunity for individuals with certain barriers to employment to take advantage of available job openings. The city s workforce development system is not adequately responding to the manufacturing skills gap. Manufacturing training programs for adults in New York are extremely limited and do not meet the current demand of the sector. Most of the training programs offered focus on transportation, such as commercial driving classes. Programs that encourage and incentivize on-the-job training directly with prospective employers need to be expanded and enhanced, as these are most effective in delivering much-needed technical and soft skills training. On-the Job training improves turnover rates, as they require a time investment from both parties -- the prospective employees and their employers. MINORITY/WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESS ENTERPRISES (M/WBES) INT (ROSENTHAL) INCREASED PARTICIPATION OF MINORITY-AND WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESS ENTERPRISES IN CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS RELATED TO PROPERTIES RECEIVING TAX BENEFITS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL ABATEMENT PROGRAM (ICAP) SUPPORT This proposed legislation would amend Local Law 67 of 2008, governing participation of minority-and women-owned business enterprises (M/ WBEs) in construction projects receiving benefits under the Industrial and Commercial Abatement (ICAP) program. The bill is expected to provide M/WBEs with more opportunities for inclusion by lowering the project cost threshold requiring ICAP applicants to directly solicit M/WBEs to work on projects ranging from $1.5 million to $750,000; requiring applicants to inform the New York City Department of Small Business Services (SBS) after it has received a final ICAP award of contracting and subcontracting opportunities at the applicable site as they arise; and finally requiring all applicants to submit certifications of compliance with M/WBE program requirements to SBS, in addition to the Department of Finance, along with the final application for benefits. In addition to creating an entry-way for additional procurement opportunities by lowering the project cost threshold; Int will also increase transparency and accountability by initiating a communication component between SBS, M/WBEs and ICAP awardees. IMPROVED CONNECTION BETWEEN NYC, NYS AND FEDERAL CERTIFICATION PROCESSES SUPPORT As it stands, Minority/Women-Owned Business Enterprises (M/WBEs) are required to be certified separately with NYC, NYS and federal entities, which creates a serious administrative burden, and can discourage small businesses from applying. Each application is very lengthy and complex so it is very taxing for a business owner to position him/herself to be able to have access to procurement opportunities at all levels of government. A standard application that can be accessed online across a unified NYC, NYS and Federal platform would greatly improve the process of certification for M/WBEs. We understand that certain certifying requirements differ across agencies. However, if the standard application offers supplemental documents that can be submitted separately, this will still help to make the process faster and more efficient. page 24 page 25

15 In the Brooklyn Chamber s 2017 City Member Issues Survey, 34 percent of respondents identified themselves as M/WBE, however, only 12 percent were certified as such. In addition 23 percent of respondents, mentioned that they had started the certification process, but faced challenges to completion. While we applaud both NYC and NYS for setting high M/WBE contracting goals, we believe that this is an excellent opportunity for multi-level governmental collaboration, in the interest of meeting and exceeding contracting goals. ENACT LEGISLATION TO CREATE MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS/ STRENGTHEN WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS IN NYC (WE NYC) SUPPORT In 2015, the New York City Department of Small Business Services (SBS) determined that women entrepreneurship is one of the key economic drivers of New York City and created WE NYC to standardize a model for empowering women entrepreneurs. For the 4 million females in New York City, an astonishing percentage of them are considered economically vulnerable. Close to 40 percent of households are headed up by single mothers who are impoverished. The unemployment rate for New York City women is approximately 6 percent, but in neighborhoods with high concentrations of poverty, the rate can be as high as 40 percent. A path towards economic prosperity is entrepreneurship. A zip code level analysis of New York City neighborhoods indicates a positive correlation between self-employment and per capita income. In addition, entrepreneurship can spur job creation in one s community. The Brooklyn Chamber is very supportive of additional opportunities for women entrepreneurs and, to this end, provides a wide range of programs and services that directly empower this group of business owners. In 2012, we re-launched our M/WBE Committee, and have been working diligently to address the unique challenges of M/WBE businesses and advocate on their behalf, in an effort to eliminate disparities in the procurement processes. Further, in 2017 the Brooklyn Chamber was contracted by SBS to work with women and minority owned businesses in Brooklyn and Suffolk County through the ID M/WBE Program. This included working directly with this group of entrepreneurs to improve their VENDEX and Online Directory of Certified Business Profile, achieve and maintain their NYC M/WBE certification, and help expiring firms and recently expired firms recertify with the city. These measures were very impactful in ensuring that this group of business owners knew where to look for opportunities, to be qualified to take advantage, and finally to be notified of when opportunities are available. We look forward to continued partnership with SBS and our New York City Council representatives to expand business prospects for womenowned businesses. VETERAN AFFAIRS INCENTIVES FOR VETERANS LOOKING TO START A BUSINESS SUPPORT We owe a great debt of gratitude to our veterans, who have risked their lives to protect the freedom of the American people. We encourage our legislators to work together to provide effective pathways to entrepreneurship for this population. We will not only be paying it forward, but also encouraging economic development and giving veterans an opportunity to continue to make valuable contributions to our communities as entrepreneurs. The Brooklyn Chamber has long been a proponent of veteran entrepreneurship. Since 2013, our Brooklyn Chamber Veterans Council has been working to establish a robust support system in our community through which veteran-owned businesses can flourish. Further, in 2016, the Brooklyn Chamber, in partnership with NYU Tandon School of Engineering, secured funding from the U.S. Small Business Administration, and provided resources and support to veterans looking to start a business. Key components of this program include business development services, education and technical support, access to technology and mentorship from existing veteran entrepreneurs. This is one of a number of initiatives that the Brooklyn Chamber and its partners within the veteran community are working on, and which we hope will help to provide the much-needed resources that veteran entrepreneurs need. We believe that empowering our veterans with the tools to be successful is integral to the success of our business community as a whole. Investing in our veterans will help support their transition to civilian life and empower them to contribute to job creation and overall economic development. INCENTIVES FOR BUSINESSES WHO HIRE VETERANS - SUPPORT Creating tax incentives for businesses to hire veterans will help to reduce unemployment among this valuable group of workers; and such a measure would ultimately have a positive effect on improving our economy. Incentives similar to New York State s Hire-A-Vet Credit should be established at the city level, which would provide tax credits to businesses that hire veterans, including those that are disabled. Further, Brooklyn is home to New York City s only remaining active duty military base, Fort Hamilton. The Fort has been in existence for almost 200 years and its economic and cultural impact in Southern Brooklyn is still significant today. We highly recommend a focused initiative between Fort Hamilton and veteran entrepreneurs, and workers to include, but not be limited to training, mentoring and technology access upon their discharge. Such a measure would help to give veterans much needed support in their reintegration to civilian life. page 26 page 27

16 INT (ULRICH) - A LOCAL LAW TO AMEND THE ADMINISTRATIVE CODE OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK, IN RELATION TO THE CREATION OF A VETERANS RESOURCE GUIDE SUPPORT When veterans return home from active duty, they often encounter barriers to assimilating back into their normal lives. Therefore, the Brooklyn Chamber supports this legislation, as it would assist this population upon their return home. Int would require that the New York City Department of Veterans Services (DVS) to maintain and periodically update a resource guide for veterans. This guide would be available on the DVS website and in written format, if requested. The guide would contain information about eligibility and the process of applying for federal, state, and city veterans benefits, special rights accorded to veterans under the law, health programs and services, legal and housing services, small business support, educational and employment opportunities, and other available resources for veterans. This initiative will provide an effective road-map to returning veterans, and will be an important factor in ensuring that their transition to civilian life is not only smooth, but also successful. ARTS AND CULTURE ADDITIONAL INVESTMENT IN THE MUSIC AND FILM INDUSTRY SUPPORT New York City s music and film industry is a major economic contributor and job creator, thus creating a need for additional investment to keep pace with expansion. According to the Mayor s Office of Media and Entertainment (MOME), this sector accounts for over 305,000 jobs, and an economic output of $104 billion. In addition, the launch of Brooklyn College s Barry R. Feirstein Graduate School of Cinema at Steiner Studios in 2015 will significantly increase the local talent pool for this sector, and encourage even more production. In April, 2017 the Brooklyn Chamber hosted MOME Commissioner Julie Menin at a special neighborhood edition of our Brooklyn Newsmakers series at Brooklyn Bowl in Williamsburg. There, Commissioner Menin shared the results of a study on the city s music industry, which was conducted by Boston Consulting Group earlier in the year. According to that report the music sector is growing faster than the rest of the local economy, in that music-related jobs and wages are growing at annual rates of 4 and 7 percent respectively, as compared to 3 and 5 percent in the city overall. Further, the report establishes New York as one of the largest if not the largest music ecosystems in the world. However, a serious challenge highlighted in the report was that small music communities such as night clubs, and specialty performance spaces, which nurture talent are facing displacement pressures, and being forced to close in some cases. Therefore maintaining a thriving artist community and enhancing New York s image as a destination for entertainment becomes problematic. The Brooklyn Chamber encourages increased investment in the Made in NY program; and hopes that the recent study completed by MOME on the music industry will create an expedited action plan to implement similar incentives and support for the music sector. BROOKLYN CULTURAL DISTRICT SUPPORT In the Brooklyn Chamber s 2016 State Member Issues Survey, 69 percent of respondents supported a plan by the New York City Economic Development Corporation to establish a Brooklyn Cultural District. This project will be located in Fort Greene, the heart of Brooklyn s thriving artistic community, and will serve as a hub for arts and culture. Also included in this plan is the creation of new performance and rehearsal spaces, office space for a diverse group of local arts organizations, a public plaza for the community, a library, a cinema, and much-needed affordable housing. The Brooklyn Academy of Music will serve as the anchor for this project. This is an important measure as, every day, more than 100,000 not-for-profit arts and culture organizations, as well as institutions of higher learning, act as economic drivers creating an industry that supports jobs, generates government revenue, and is the cornerstone of our tourism industry. The Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce is supportive of this project because it will create local jobs and increase economic activity for surrounding businesses. TRAVEL AND TOURISM BROOKLYN BRIDGE TOURIST CART SUPPORT The Brooklyn Chamber has always been a champion for increased tourism in the borough, and in 2014 became one of the leading sources for information about dining, events, shopping and attractions with the launch of a dedicated tourism website, ExploreBrooklyn.com. We have since organized a robust Explore Brooklyn Tourism & Hospitality Committee, with a focus on building the Brooklyn brand. page 28 page 29

17 We strongly believe that these initiatives can be enhanced with the placement of a permanent tourist cart at the end of the Brooklyn Bridge. Over 30,000 tourists walk the Brooklyn Bridge every day -- but rather than exploring Brooklyn, they tend to head back into Manhattan. The addition of a tourist cart will create an incentive for tourists to enter the borough, educate them on transportation options and generate increased economic benefits within our cultural institutions, restaurants, attractions, hotels and more. These information booths typically provide guides, maps, pamphlets and brochures explaining all there is to do in the cities in which they exist. In some cases, they also offer coupons to dining, entertainment and city attractions. A Brooklyn tourism cart would enhance the economic impact of existing shop local initiatives in the borough. We encourage support for project implementation, alongside the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT), which will help to increase tourist interaction and awareness of Brooklyn s many offerings. WIDENING THE BROOKLYN BRIDGE WALKING AND BIKING PATH SUPPORT According to the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT), on a typical weekday, over 10,000 pedestrians and 3,500 cyclists travel over the Brooklyn Bridge. However, the dimensions of the wood and concrete promenade only measure up to 10 feet at some points and 17 feet at the widest. For a bridge that was built in 1883, this increased capacity is becoming problematic. In response to this observation, DOT commissioned a report in August, 2016, which included an initial assessment of this structure. Described as a Times Square in the Sky, the report noted that New Yorkers are not just using the Brooklyn Bridge to get from point A to B, but the structure is an attraction of sorts and one of the city s foremost tourist hubs for a wide range of recreational activities. Further, the report cites that pedestrian volumes have increased 20 percent in the PM and 275 percent on the weekend from May 2008 to May 2015; and that bicycle volumes have increased 66 percent in the AM and 93 percent in the PM from May 2008 to May BROOKLYN! SIGN PROPOSAL SUPPORT In July, 2017, artist and photographer Susanna Briselli proposed the installation of an iconic, illuminated Brooklyn! sign on a prominent building that would be visible from Manhattan. The idea of a sign is similar to the now famous Hollywood sign, and would be a beacon to create excitement about the borough, and entice visitors to explore Brooklyn. Renderings of Briselli s Brooklyn! sign on top of the former Watchtower building, as well as Pier 7 were published in the Brooklyn Daily Eagle; however, a definite location has not been identified. We encourage collaborative efforts between Briselli, local elected officials, business and community leaders to enhance our existing tourism efforts, by making the installation of this sign a reality. ADDITIONAL CONVENTION CENTERS IN BROOKLYN SUPPORT Given Brooklyn s global popularity, there is a growing need for adequate space to accommodate large-scale exhibitions for the local business community, as well as visitors. As the leading economic development organization in the borough, the Brooklyn Chamber is the go-to organization for visiting business groups looking to host tours and meetings. In some cases, these delegations exceed 500, with business engagements lasting 2 3 days. Investing in the expansion of such spaces will generate more opportunities for increased economic activity, and job creation. From a safety and economic standpoint, it is crucial that the structure is widened to keep pace with significantly increased usage. Therefore, the Brooklyn Chamber supports DOT s recommendation of next steps for expanding the walking and biking path of the bridge, which includes a consultant study, followed by design and construction. page 30 page 31

18 NEW YORK CITY LEGISLATIVE VISIT, CITY HALL & BROOKLYN NIGHT RECEPTION PRESENTING SPONSOR CORPORATE SPONSOR FLEET COVERAGE CONSULTANTS NON-PROFIT SPONSORS page 32

19 The Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce has been named CHAMBER OF THE YEAR by the Business Council of New York State! We are honored to be recognized statewide for our ongoing efforts to drive community and economic development across Brooklyn s diverse neighborhoods. page 34 page 35