Pratt Center
August 10, 2010
State Senate Retail Report Relies on Pratt Center Research
The Pratt Center's research and recommendations on preserving diverse retail in New York's neighborhoods are heavily cited in a new report from State Senators Daniel Squadron and Shirley Huntley,"New York Retail: Serving the Public."
A follow-up to the 2009 Senate Committee on Cities hearing about the obstacles to independent retail in New York City and State (read the Pratt Center's testimony here), the report highlights promising policies and strategies that can be put to work to support businesses, increase neighborhood vitality and expand residents' shopping options.
The committee recommends several measures promoted by the Pratt Center, including commercial rent abatement, inclusion of local retailers in major development projects, support for local efforts to implement "formula restrictions" limiting the proliferation of chain stores, and a task force to review and implement best practices from around the nation. It also recommends a comprehensive review of state tax policy affecting small businesses and the establishment of a single entity to develop a comprehensive urban renewal policy, to better target and promote use of business incentive programs.
The Pratt Center issue brief "Saving Independent Retail" details policy efforts in other cities and states and recommends measures best suited to New York City's economy, landscape and needs. The Pratt Center has been advising elected officials, local development corporations, community-based organizations and others about measures they can take in their own communities to sustain a thriving and diverse retail economy.