Crime Rates Keeping Workers Out Of NYC Offices Not COVID

According to a non-profit group advocating for local business leaders, crime rates in New York City could lead to a decline in workers entering Manhattan offices. According to a Partnership for New York City study, less than 40% of Manhattan office workers go to work on a typical weekday. The report will be released Monday.

Kathryn Wylde is the president and CEO of this group. She stated that declining office attendance in the city is not due to COVID-19, but rather because of “the public safety problem and rampant homelessness.”

Wylde stated that employers asked Wylde what they thought would make it more effective to bring people back into the office. They suggested that the factors include reducing the number of homeless and mentally ill people and increasing police presence on streets and subways.

Wylde pointed out that, while office life is still struggling, nightlife has returned to the city. She said, “We are just not back to the office yet.”

According to the New York Police Department, crime rates have risen in New York City in recent years. Major crimes soared to 34.2% in April alone.

According to the Partnership for New York City, 39% of Manhattan workers report coming to work on a weekday. However, most only make it in three days per week.

Wylde explained that Manhattan office workers were required to be present in the office on five days a week before the pandemic.

A different survey that the group conducted was released in March and 84% of those surveyed said New York City conditions have worsened in recent years. 40% also stated they are thinking about moving.

According to its budget projections, the City expects that at least 20% of five boroughs’ offices will remain vacant through 2026.