Part 8/10:
Despite their cultural significance, stoops face challenges in modern urban planning. New construction codes and costs make it difficult for new developments to incorporate stoops as a design feature. A new stoop can run upwards of $100,000, and if it encroaches on public sidewalks, the owner must pay a yearly fee to the city. The balance of preserving cultural heritage while maximizing land use for housing remains a critical and ongoing issue in New York City. Stoops also pose accessibility challenges, particularly for individuals with disabilities, making street-level entrances more favorable.