Retail in NYC gets option of outdoor shopping

Shops on the same street can also join together and ask the city to close their block to traffic so they can set up in the street. Stores on existing open streets used by restaurants can use that space.

But unlike the outdoor dining, retail stores cannot take over parking spaces.

What’s next: De Blasio signed an executive order Wednesday to create the program, which will start Friday and go at least through Dec. 31. Shops can use outdoor space after filling out an online application.

The city is hoping the outdoor stores will boost business during the holiday season, which many shops rely on for 70 percent of their sales.

“The holidays are coming — a great opportunity to patronize your local businesses. Look everyone, we all appreciate there’s wonderful stuff available online, but let’s really double down on our local businesses here in this city. Let’s give them the business they need to survive,” de Blasio said. “This is going to be the toughest year for small businesses. This holiday season is something they really need.”