The Real Deal New York

 As chain stores proliferate and local stores struggle to compete and pay increasing rents, city officials are looking at ways to promote independent businesses. In Harlem, a special district is under consideration for 125th Street. It would require banks to operate on upper floors, keeping ground floors open for businesses like restaurants and art galleries. Some fear a rezoning of 125th Street will ruin the neighborhood’s low-rise character. Long-time businesses with unclear futures include Manna’s Soul Food and Salad Bar, Mony Fashions and the record store Bobby’s Happy House.