High Line Hotel operator faces backlash over Legionnaires' disease outbreak

In New York City, the High Line Hotel has tested positive for Legionnaires' disease, a serious health concern that has already claimed seven lives this summer. The hotel, owned by MCR, conducted a Legionella test weeks ago, revealing alarming levels of the bacteria at 170 cfu/ml. Following pressure from the Hotel & Gaming Trades Council union, which represents hotel workers, the hotel management was compelled to provide proof of remediation after an arbitration hearing. However, the union alleges that management threatened workers with discipline if they left the hotel due to safety concerns. On July 23, a subsequent test showed a fourfold increase in Legionella levels, reaching 700 cfu/ml, raising further alarm among staff and union members. The union's president, Rich Maroko, criticized MCR for its poor record of compliance with health regulations, noting that the company averages 2.84 violations per inspection, the highest among the ten largest hotel operators in the city. The High Line Hotel's average of 6.71 violations per inspection is the second worst in the five boroughs. The city has been experiencing a Legionnaires' disease outbreak linked to cooling towers, which are essential for industrial air conditioning systems. Maroko emphasized that workers should not have to choose between their health and their jobs, highlighting the need for the hotel to prioritize safety for both employees and guests. The union's proactive measures to survey the hotel industry revealed that most hotels have cooperated with safety protocols, making the High Line Hotel's situation a concerning exception. The ongoing public health crisis has prompted calls for immediate action to ensure the safety of all involved.