New York City officials have announced a new initiative, changing the NYPD’s approach to managing nightlife establishments and discontinuing the long-criticized practice of surprise raids.
Mayor Eric Adams announced the new initiative on Thursday, December 28th, marking the end of the Giuliani-era MARCH policy (Multi-Agency Response to Community Hotspots), which was known for its unannounced inspections of bars and clubs.
The new initiative, Coordinating a United Resolution with Establishments (CURE), mandates local police precincts consult with owners or managers regarding potential violations or community complaints before escalating to more aggressive actions, such as surprise raids.
This change comes in response to longstanding criticisms of the MARCH initiative, which business owners claimed led to harassment and deterred customers.
Mayor Adams emphasized the transformative nature of the new initiative, stating, “Today, we are changing the way we engage with nightlife establishments by opening direct lines of communication with local businesses and giving them a chance to correct issues before enforcement takes place.”
The mayor added, “New York City is the nightlife capital of the world, and this new initiative will help us protect public safety, ensure a better quality of life, and keep business doors open for all to enjoy.”
Jeffrey Garcia, the New York City Office of Nightlife executive director, lauded the initiative at a press conference at Brooklyn’s Paragon nightclub, saying, “They won’t have to constantly look over their shoulders.”
However, the policy revision has not been universally welcomed.
Queens Councilmember Robert Holden expressed skepticism of the initiative, remarking, “More layers of bureaucracy will only prolong the existing quality-of-life issues. I hope this does not backfire.”
The policy shift also affects other city agencies that previously participated in MARCH, like the Fire Department and Department of Buildings.
They will now adhere to the CURE guidelines, though real-time inspections for immediate public safety concerns will continue.
FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh expressed support for the initiative, stating, “Our fire inspectors will continue to inspect reports of dangerous establishments and keep New Yorkers safe.”
NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban emphasized the importance of the new approach, saying, “By collaborating with our city’s many local business owners and managers, this new process will enable our police officers to build trust and strengthen relationships throughout the five boroughs and further the NYPD’s mission of preventing crime and disorder while enhancing quality of life.”
