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Friday, July 1, 2011

Solid Storefront Security Gates Now Illegal in NYC



















A new law to phase out solid, roll-down security gates on storefronts went into effect today.

Queens Councilman Peter Vallone Jr. drafted the legislation that requires newly installed or replacement gates to allow for at least 70 percent visibility.

He said the new gates will improve safety conditions, allowing police officers or firefighters to clearly see into a location.

“First off, it opens up the appearances so people can shop even in the evening even after we are closed, and it just makes the neighborhood much more friendly,” said Arlin Owsley, general manager of Clear Wire.

“As you can see, it is often a canvas for graffiti,” said Vallone of older gates. “It is going to eliminate 75 percent of the graffiti in New York City, so those things are why the bill was passed, and it will really make a difference in the cityscape of the entire New York City.”

Store owners with existing solid gates do not have to replace them until 2026.

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