By Carla Zanoni
DNAinfo Reporter/Producer
Popular high-end dining spot Altus Cafe finds itself smack bang in the middle of the fight over sidewalk cafes in Washington Heights.
Despite the 34th precinct police recently coming out against the creation of any new sidewalk cafes in the neigborhood, the cafe is taking the next step in applying for a two year permit for al fresco dining at 4325 Broadway.
The Department of Consumer Affairs will hold a public hearing on May 26.
If Altus is successful, it will become the first restaurant on the stretch of Broadway between 170th and Dyckman streets to get a permit for outdoor service.
Altus, according to members of the 34th precinct, has been the subject of many quality of life complaints by local residents to 311. It has not, however, ever received a citation.
Residents have long complained about loud noises on an already busy stretch of Broadway. Some are also worried that the width of sidewalk on the stretch is too narrow for an outdoor cafe.
But the restuarant's owner disputes the assertions, saying noise and safety will not be an issue.
On May 4, at a Community Board 12 meeting, a police department spokesperson said the precinct was against sidewalk permits in the area. The precinct does not support the creation of sidewalk cafes for Papasito restaurant, at 233 Dyckman Street, or 181 Cabrini, at 854 West 181st Street.
The hearing regarding Altus Cafe's sidewalk license will be held at 2 p.m. at 66 John Street, on the 11th floor.
