Central Park Roadways Will Get More Room for Cyclists and Pedestrians

This evening, DOT, the Parks Department and the Central Park Conservancy announced a change to road configurations in Central Park similar to recent changes in Brooklyn's Prospect Park. The plan [PDF] would double available pedestrian space and bring the installation of plastic posts to separate cyclists from walkers and joggers.

DOT said that it has notified local elected officials and community board leadership of the proposal and will begin implementation in October.

Lane configurations would vary within the park, but would in most locations reduce the number of motor vehicle lanes to provide more space for pedestrians and cyclists.

When reached via phone earlier today before the changes were officially announced, a spokesperson for Gale Brewer said the Upper West Side council member, a long-time advocate for car-free parks, would welcome a roadway design similar to what has been implemented in Prospect Park.

Transportation Alternatives also voiced support for the design. "Parks are for people and that's why we've long supported a car-free Central Park," TA said in a statement earlier today. "However, in the meantime, separate spaces could help. It's a proven fact that separate spaces for pedestrians, bicyclists and drivers keep everyone out of each other's way and out of harm's way."