The Untaped: Removing Barriers for Public Space Programming panel convened public servants and cultural organizations who work to put on community events to discuss how NYC can make it easier for New Yorkers to use their public spaces and simplify the complex permitting landscape. Design Trust for Public Space also dived into our Untaped policy report findings, presenting eight recommendations on how the city can cut red tape and foster shared places that are more accessible and vibrant.

Watch an archive of our Untaped panel and talk in Queens with Culture Lab LIC!  

Featured speakers: 

Julia Kerson, NYC Deputy Mayor for Operations

Laura Rothrock, Long Island City Partnership and LIC BID

Pedro Cruz Cruz, Untaped Public Space Management Fellow

Jack Shugrue, Untaped UX Design Fellow

Jennifer Hoppa, NYC Parks 

Karesia Batan, Queensboro Dance Festival 

Andrew Ronan, LaGuardia Performing Arts Center

Heather Lubov, City Parks Foundation 

John Surico, Center for an Urban Future and 31st Ave Open Street Collective

Edjo Wheeler, Culture Lab

Matthew Clarke, Design Trust for Public Space

Download the report and learn more about the coalition that made this work possible at untaped.nyc

Recorded July 9th, 2026 at Culture Lab LIC