Manhattan CB2 working group mostly approves sidewalk‑cafe applications; several denied over clearance and ADA concerns

The Manhattan Community Board 2 outdoor dining working group on June 10 reviewed two dozen sidewalk- and roadway-cafe applications, approving most with specified modifications but denying several where the committee found insufficient pedestrian clearance or noncompliance with ADA or other rules.

"Good evening, everyone — this is the June 10 meeting of the Manhattan Community Board 2 outdoor dining working group," said Valerie Delaress, chair of the working group, at the start of the session. The group held a public comment period for each applicant and then moved to a business session to vote on advisory recommendations to the Department of Transportation (DOT).

Why it matters: CB2's recommendations are advisory but commonly influence DOT decisions and the Department of Buildings and State Liquor Authority (SLA) reviews. Several applicants will need to return with revised site plans showing measured clearances, perimeter demarcations and where applicable revised furniture layouts; others were denied because the committee concluded the proposals could not meet minimum clear-path or accessibility standards as drawn.

What the committee decided (Votes at a glance) - Pepe Rosso To‑Go, 130 W. Houston St. — approved with modifications (boilerplate ADA language and other standard conditions). (Application referred 1; committee vote recorded: approval with modifications.) - Carroll Place (South Village Hospitality Group LLC), 157 Bleecker St. — approved with modifications (committee asked applicant to confirm table sizes, perimeters and keep service aisles clear). -…