There was considerable anticipation for the opening of “Edge,” the newest sky deck on the top of 20 Hudson Yards. While New Yorkers were eagerly awaiting to experience the newest and most unique view of their great city, Related Companies was forced to shut down the observatory because of the global coronavirus pandemic. And until the public-health crisis subsides, the deck will remain closed. The new site apparently “fell into city guidelines,” which now restricts social gatherings. Along with schools, theaters, bars, nightclubs and entertainment venues, Edge will remain empty until officials deem it safe for people to assemble. Along with Edge’s closure, The Shops at Hudson Yards, and The Vessel are no longer open to the public. The real-estate industry is left with little choice but to evolve and adapt in response to the emergency. For example, Cushman & Wakefield is advising staff to work from home, whenever possible. The ones who are considered “essential” and must report to work are following new protocols and will assemble in smaller groups. “Our client-facing teams remain in place and continue to deliver services,” said Cushman & Wakefield’s CEO Brett White. “Those assigned to properties and accounts will continue with their day-to-day work as usual. We are making certain that all of our systems, infrastructure and support functions that your Cushman & Wakefield teams rely on are fully operational just as they would be on any normal day,” # # # To read the full report on how the industry is responding, read the full piece in Real Estate Weekly: https://rew-online.com/industry-adapts-and-evolves-as-city-moves-to-quell-virus-spread/
