After two lower Manhattan blazes that stemmed from wooden roof decks, fire commissioner Salvatore J. Cassano is warning New Yorkers that all that extra rent you pay for the comfort of enjoying that view could put you in danger. He says that wooden roof decks, when left uncared for, will dry out and become prone to lighting on fire in the warmer months. “It may be nice to have a roof deck, but make sure it’s done according to the law, according to the codes." more ›

Rejoice Williamsburg residents, there's finally a music venue coming to your neighborhood. Okay, so maybe it's already saturated with sonic dens of slack, but why not add one more...with a roof! Eater has been on top of the goings-on at 4 Berry Street since March, and reports that the new venue/bar/restaurant/roof deck should be open by June (they'll be hosting a Northside Festival show in mid-June). "One of the owners tells us that they will have a large selection of European beers with an emphasis on their German selection and will serve 'beer infused menu items.' The lower level is 35,000 sq. ft. but the big focus here will be the 3,000 sq. ft. roof." Most recently they noted the roof fencing was in, and the bar is being built. To top it all off, it's under 450 feet away from the Gutter! [via Brooklyn Vegan] more ›