Mayor Eric Adams today announced a new initiative focused on removing abandoned sheds that were formerly part of outdoor dining for restaurants that have since shut down.

Struggling restaurants during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic extended their doors onto the streets by setting up sheds. The mayor says the plan helped many restaurants bounce back and saved nearly 100,000 jobs, but critics say the rescue effort created more problems than solutions citing trash, rodent, space and noise issues.

The city has removed 24 sheds outside now-closed restaurants in the last few days.

The task force will also review sheds that violate Open Restaurants program guidelines with a warning system. After the third visit, the Department of Transportation will issue a termination letter - with 48 hours before handing out a removal notice. The DOT will then remove the structure and store it for 90 days. If not reclaimed by the owner, the shed will be disposed of.

The administration is also encouraging New Yorkers to identify sheds that appear to be abandoned and call 311 to share the location so the task force can review it. New Yorkers can also submit photos to 311 via text or email.