Update on the District

The Garment District has a lot going on, so let’s bring it down to a few things:

Zoning has made the headlines several times and continues to be a key focus area within the Garment Industry Development Corporation. Because of the rezoning for Hudson Yards (a neighborhood bordering the district), a lot of buildings on Eighth and Ninth Avenues can be converted into office space or residences if they have less than 70,000 square feet.

Originally, this area within the Special Garment Center District could only be used for the apparel industry. Now the zoning changes allow more commercial and residential developments.

Some people over the years have even been illegally turning apparel space into office space. The Garment Industry Development Corporation tries to keep tabs on the zoning issues and plans to do what they can to preserve the area, but feel free to let them know if you think something is in violation.

One of the changes the district has seen recently would be the new Bank of America building. Construction has been ongoing at 42nd street and Sixth Avenue for almost a year now. Most of the building is finished, but the top of the building still needs work.

With the economy at a low, here are some ways the Garment District brings people to the community:

Bryant Park opens its winter skating rink on Friday and hosts a Tricks and Treats event on Halloween. Check both of them out if you want some fall fun! The ice skating rink, called the Pond, is free for the session and only 12 dollars if you need skates!

The park is one of the meccas of the Garment District. This month it hosted concerts that included acts from the New York City Opera and Piano in the Park. Tai Chi and New York Knits is offered on certain days. the Holiday Shops start in November. The city is on the verge of Christmas décor and spirit is rising so take advantage of it!

The New York Public Library hosts several events every season. People constantly relax on the steps and enjoy looking at the architecture, but what’s really happening in the library?

Right now a bunch of programs are going on. On Nov. 1 Donna Sweiden, a career counselor, will be speaking on planning and succeeding at a job search, on Nov. 3 Michele Bogart presents about New York’s art commission, and the New York Chocolate Show happens on Nov. 5. The library also has computer classes and artwork that you should stop by to see and enjoy.