Skip to Content
Streetsblog New York City home
Streetsblog New York City home
Log In
DOT

Eyes on the Street: Bike, Pedestrian and Bus Upgrades Coming to East Harlem

A future parking lane, center, and protected bike lane, to the left, on Second Avenue. Photo: Jacob TK

Streetsblog regular @J_uptown snapped these shots of developing infrastructure on First and Second Avenues in East Harlem, where DOT is installing a protected bike lane, shortening crossing distances for pedestrians, and speeding bus travel. Writes Jacob:

It's well underway, and nearly all of the ped islands are completed, and most of the striping is done as well. The only thing left is the green paint and the bike symbols. The parking hasn't started to be enforced yet, though, but it's sort of rideable.

The first phase of the Second Avenue protected lane will stretch from 125th Street to 100th Street (Second Avenue Subway construction will delay its expansion to the south). It will eventually be paired with a First Avenue lane.

Ten bus bulbs are slated to be installed on First Avenue [PDF], along with two on Second. These sidewalk extensions, like the one pictured after the jump, will help speed travel for Select Bus passengers.

Pedestrians make use of an island on Second at E. 122nd St.

These improvements were endorsed by Community Board 11 -- twice -- and championed by local residents and City Council Member Melissa Mark-Viverito, who insisted on safer streets for the neighborhood despite NIMBY opposition.

A bus bulb goes in on First Avenue between 116th and 117th.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog New York City

‘Bean-Counting Street Safety’: Advocates Blast Gale Brewer’s Daylighting Flip-Flop

The Upper West Side pol's inconsistent safety record is getting a second look from activists who once supported her.

October 2, 2025

There’s Good Science Behind the Human Craving for Livable Streets

It's time to understand the science of pedestrian-friendly cities. Or, why streets should be designed like gardens.

October 2, 2025

Thursday’s Headlines: Mourning Becomes Enforcement Edition

Why were cops ticketing cyclists at the very intersection where a bike rider was killed by a driver on Saturday? Plus other news.

October 2, 2025

Trump Culture War Tantrum Turns to Gateway Tunnel and Second Ave. Subway

It's the second time the Trump administration has denied New York transit funding in as many days.

October 1, 2025

West Side Pols Call on Trump Administration to Stop Illegally Blocking 10th Ave. Bike Lane

The DEA blockade of the 10th Avenue bike lane continues, and local politicians are demanding the federal agency stop denying cyclists safety.

October 1, 2025

When the DOT Takes Your Bike: A Cyclist’s Guide to Getting It Back 

A bike commuter's frustrating journey through New York's bureaucratic maze reveals a hidden problem affecting cyclists citywide. 

October 1, 2025
See all posts