Eric Adams unveils CURE to revolutionize nightlife regulation
The Major of New York City, Mayor Eric Adams, has introduced a groundbreaking initiative aimed at transforming the way the city regulates and engages with its vibrant nightlife scene.
The newly launched process, named “Coordinating a United Resolution with Establishments” (CURE), replaces the previous “Multi-Agency Response to Community Hotspots” (MARCH) strategy, heralding a shift towards a more collaborative and engagement-focused approach.
Mayor Adams emphasized the importance of balancing the city’s dynamic nightlife with the need to address issues such as noise, trash, and crime.
He stated, “New York City is the nightlife capital of the world, and this new initiative will help us protect public safety, ensure a better quality of life, and keep business doors open for all to enjoy.”
The CURE process aims to establish direct communication channels between the New York City Police Department (NYPD), the Department of Small Business Services (SBS), and the Office of Nightlife (ONL) with local business owners.
This engagement-first approach involves in-person communication to make businesses aware of potential violations and conditions of concern.
The initiative provides multiple opportunities for business owners to address issues before enforcement actions are taken, aligning with Mayor Adams’ blueprint for economic recovery.
NYPD Commissioner Edward A. Caban expressed support for the engagement-first approach, stating, “By collaborating with our city’s many local business owners and managers, this new process will enable our police officers to build trust and strengthen relationships throughout the five boroughs.”
The former MARCH program, initiated during the Giuliani administration, conducted unannounced inspections in response to neighborhood complaints, causing disruptions for local businesses and patrons.
The CURE process ensures that significant enforcement actions are taken only against venues demonstrating a clear and intentional disregard for community concerns.
Under CURE, precincts will engage in a series of steps in coordination with ONL, including in-person daytime visits, written documentation of incidents, and meetings between business owners and local precinct officials before inspections are approved. In cases involving complaints from residents, ONL’s Mediating Establishment and Neighborhood Disputes NYC program will provide mediation support.
SBS Commissioner Kevin D. Kim highlighted the significance of CURE in supporting small businesses, stating, “CURE is another promise fulfilled on the road to making New York City the ‘City of Yes’ for all small businesses.”
ONL Executive Director Jeffrey Garcia expressed optimism about the transformative impact of CURE on the nightlife community, stating, “Public safety extends beyond law enforcement. A thriving nightlife industry keeps the lights on, with more eyes on the street.”
The CURE initiative has received widespread support from various city agencies, including the FDNY, DOB, DOHMH, DEP, and SLA. The engagement-first approach aims to create a healthier and more productive dynamic between the city and the nightlife community.
The announcement has been met with enthusiasm from various stakeholders, including City Councilmembers, industry leaders, and advocacy groups, who see CURE as a positive step toward ensuring a safer and more vibrant nightlife experience in New York City.