Overdose Prevention Centers and Neighborhood Commercial Activity in New York City

Source:

Allen, B., Basaraba, C., Chambers, L. C., Behrends, C. N., Marshall, B. D., & Cerdá, M. (2026). Overdose prevention centers and neighborhood commercial activity in New York City. JAMA Network Open, 9(2), e2559863.

Key Points

Question  Are overdose prevention centers (OPCs) associated with neighborhood economic activity?

Findings  In this cohort study of the first 2 publicly recognized OPCs in the US, there were no significant changes in foot traffic and consumer spending after the OPCs opened in the East Harlem and Washington Heights neighborhoods in New York City.

Meaning  The finding suggests that, given the absence of observed economic harms, policy debates should instead focus on the public health implications of OPCs.