Check out this opportunity for ground-floor businesses to install Street Seats– small, seasonal, temporary public spaces installed against the curb in front of their establishments.
Via nycneighborhoods:
If you want a Street Seat this summer, now is the time to apply.
The NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) accepts applications throughout the year to install Street Seats, but it’s important to move your application forward now. It will start getting warm soon (believe it or not!), and you don’t want to miss out on an opportunity to take advantage of the good weather. Also, you have to get on your community board's agenda as soon as possible.
More info (including application process, technical criteria, and design guidelines)here.