Fixing the Potholes in NYC’s Cultural Infrastructure
New York City's cultural institutions operate within a public-private model dating to 1869, stewarding city-owned assets to deliver free and low-cost access to millions. The article argues that despite serving over 4 million people annually at no cost, generating $110 billion in economic activity, and supporting 15,700+ jobs, culture receives only 0.21% of the city's budget—below its long-term average. Recent investments included $75 million, but $30 million remains one-time funding, creating instability for small and community-based organizations.