The future of New York’s Garment District is at risk – and with it, the ecosystem that supports thousands of fashion jobs, small businesses, and creative careers.
The Midtown South Mixed-Use (MSMX) Plan is a new rezoning proposal that could fundamentally reshape this historic district and threaten its role at the center of American fashion.
We break down the plan, what it means for the industry, how the CFDA and our partners are responding, and how you can get involved.
What is the Midtown South Mixed-Use (MSMX) Plan?
The Midtown South Mixed-Use Plan (MSMX) is a proposed rezoning of 42 blocks in Midtown South that would allow new housing in a part of the City where this is currently prohibited under industrial zoning. Previously limited to commercial and manufacturing use, the area is home to many fashion, production, and creative businesses, and the plan raises important questions about the future of local manufacturing in New York City.
How could the MSMX Plan impact the fashion industry and Garment District?
The proposed rezoning plan will allow for residential housing to be created in a part of the City that has been and continues to be at the heart of the American fashion industry. The residential additions will create more of a 24/7 neighborhood, which could lead landlords to raise rents or demolish industrial spaces, displacing many fashion and manufacturing businesses.
The removal of special protections under the Special Garment Center District, along with the potential displacement of 114 businesses, threatens a unique economic ecosystem and jobs largely held by immigrant artisans.
According to the Department of City Planning (DCP) and its environmental review of the MSMX plan, “about 770 businesses could be displaced through new construction in the area.” The review also notes that “a little over 5,000 jobs could be displaced as a result of this proposal.”
How the CFDA and Industry Leaders Are Responding
The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) formally participated in the Midtown South rezoning process by submitting written testimony to the City Planning Commission on May 5, 2025, urging the inclusion of enforceable protections for creative industries within the MSMX plan.
On June 18, the CFDA joined fashion, theater, labor, and community groups at a Midtown rally to voice concerns about the potential displacement of small businesses and workers in the Garment District. Speakers highlighted the district’s vital role in supporting women- and minority-owned businesses, preserving artisan manufacturing, and sustaining New York’s creative economy.
This followed CFDA’s formal written testimony submitted on May 5, where CEO and President Steven Kolb urged the City to include protections for affordable workspaces and small manufacturers. At the rally, Kolb emphasized the district’s importance to American fashion—from legacy brands to emerging designers—and called on the City to fulfill past commitments.
While supporting progress, the CFDA stressed the need to protect creative workers and ensure the fashion industry can continue to thrive in New York.
As Kolb noted, “We’re not against change. But we also want to make sure the fashion industry can remain here—and thrive.”
On July 2, the CFDA delivered live testimony at the City Planning Commission hearing, marking a pivotal moment for designers, manufacturers, and creative workers to make their voices heard. The organization reaffirmed its stance on protecting New York’s fashion ecosystem and urged the Commission to honor the City’s 2018 commitments, preserve and expand access to affordable, protected production space, and invest in the future of the city’s fashion workforce—its brands, factories, and artisans.
What Happens Next and How to Get Involved
The Midtown South Mixed-Use Plan is now under review by the New York City Council. To take action, visit our partners at nyfwdc.org/msmx-advocacy.
