New York City, New York, Mayor Kohran Mamdani posted to the social media platform X to inform residents that new sidewalk sheds have been implemented. The sheds serve as protection for pedestrians walking on the sidewalk from falling debris.
Comments were divided between those who were praising Mamdani for updating the incredibly dated New York City staple, while others condemned his decision. Those who are against the decision are worried that he wasted taxpayer dollars.
The post above shows the various sidewalk sheds that have been implemented around New York City. They boast bold, yellow and teal colors that are brighter and breezier. According to the post itself, “We’re reducing the number of sidewalk sheds and redesigning safer and brighter alternatives. Say hello to a fashionable and breezy addition to the streets of New York.”
A typical sidewalk shed consists of a cheaply made metal infrastructure topped with sheet metal. The new sheds instead have much sturdier foundations and even a window that lets you see the skies above.
It is also noted that the sidewalk sheds were put in place by the Department of Buildings, who promote the safe and lawful use of buildings and construction sites in NYC. Recently, the department was present in stabilizing the impacted building at 235 Est 42nd Street. It was in danger of collapsing.
While the sheds provide a pop of color to the city, some residents argue that it is a waste of taxpayer dollars. Others argue that this change was not something that he promised during his initial campaign.
Comments and Reactions to New York Sidewalk Sheds
One of the most-liked comments under the post focuses on what Mamdani had allegedly promised during his campaign, writing, “Promises free busses, low-cost public grocery stores, free childcare, affordable housing. Delivers scaffolding in snazzy colors.”
Another person admitted that some people simply aren’t bothered by the sheds, writing, “Very scenic. You realize this is a cosmetic effort that has no tangible value, right? Most folks don’t really care about sheds. Focus instead on Fun City’s more pressing problems, such as the plethora of fabulously unattractive garbage that litters the sidewalks. Shed the sheds.”
One comment accuses Mamdani of wasting money on the project, writing, “What a waste of money, I would bet this [expletive] company is connected to @ZohranKMamdani & this is Zohran’s way of funneling money to them.”
As the post continues to go viral on X, more and more people are leaving their thoughts in the comments below the post.
