NEW YORK (77WABC) — Abandoned outdoor dining structures will be torn down by New York City officials.

The announcement was made by New York City mayor Eric Adams Thursday. The mayor insisted the city’s outdoor dining program is here to stay but needs to be revamped.

Outdoor dining has transformed our city for the better, but abandoned sheds cannot stand. Join us now in Manhattan. https://t.co/znJKmJppUa

— Mayor Eric Adams (@NYCMayor) August 18, 2022

The city has dismantled at least two dozen sheds and is targeting at least 37 others with “egregious violations” for hygiene or safety. The open restaurants program has been a lifeline for New York’s restaurants throughout the viral pandemic.

The city council is envisioning a permanent program that would expand sidewalk dining and allow businesses that previously participated to reapply for permits.