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A growing rat issue at AMC Lincoln Square 13 appears to be linked to how the theater handles its trash—particularly in the early hours of the morning.
Over the past week, ILTUWS observed overflowing garbage bins and frequent rat activity outside the theater at 1998 Broadway (at West 68th Street). The problem is most visible late at night, between 12:30 and 1 a.m., when the theater usually completes its garbage removal process. At that hour, lids are often left wide open, and rats are seen rummaging for leftovers—especially popcorn.
The theater’s typical hours are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., but extended operations for premieres or midnight showings mean trash isn’t always handled on a consistent schedule. On Wednesday, September 3, ILTUWS saw approximately ten uncovered bins lined up outside the building.
This practice may run afoul of the city’s updated trash bin rules, which went into effect on March 1, 2024. “All businesses in New York City must place trash and organic waste in bins with secure lids when setting them out for collection,” states the Department of Sanitation’s website. The mandate is part of Mayor Eric Adams’ and Sanitation Commissioner Jessica Tisch’s push to curb the city’s rodent population.
ILTUWS had previously noted that AMC’s trash volume often exceeds bin capacity, with popcorn bags and food containers spilling out onto the sidewalk. But the situation has recently escalated.
Shaen Begleiter, president of the West 68th Street Block Association, told ILTUWS that rats are also now a persistent presence between Columbus Avenue and Central Park West. “Regardless of how many bins there are, they need to be closed,” he said.
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ILTUWS contacted AMC about the situation on Tuesday, September 9. A spokesperson replied, “This has been addressed,” but did not offer further details on how the issue was being resolved.
That same afternoon, ILTUWS visited the site again. Multiple tree beds near the trash area were closed off for construction, but rat holes were visible beside the bins. Rats were observed scurrying between the garbage zone and the nearby construction site. The gate to that area had been left unlocked, and two rat traps were spotted next to AMC’s trash bins.
“That’s not good at all,” said Begleiter after hearing about the open gate and visible rat holes. “That’s something the building has to deal with.”
AMC Lincoln Square 13 is connected to The Millennium Tower, a luxury condominium at 101 West 67th Street. While the rat issue is the primary concern, the area has also recently seen the installation of 5G pole-top devices and co-conductor units supporting wireless service for major carriers like Verizon and T-Mobile.
Begleiter said he also plans to contact AMC and other relevant parties.
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