Skip to Content
Streetsblog New York City home
Streetsblog New York City home
Log In
Eyes on the Street

Eyes on the Street: New Pedestrian Spaces Pop in Financial District

Photo: Clarence Eckerson Jr.

Clarence snapped these photos of painted sidewalk expansions on Water Street, where DOT and the Downtown Alliance are working to revitalize street life in the wake of Hurricane Sandy. The top photo shows one end of the newly car-free Coentis Slip, between Water and Pearl Street.

A couple of weeks ago the City Council cleared the way for privately owned public spaces (POPS) on Water Street to host public events (markets, concerts, etc.) and amenities (like plazas) without requiring the approval of the City Planning Commission chair. The zoning text amendment will be in effect until January 1, 2014, after which the results will be evaluated by property owners, people who use the spaces, and Community Board 1.

Painted curb extension at Water and Broad.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog New York City

Opinion: A Fairer — And Better Way — For Taxi Passengers To Pay The Congestion Toll

A per-minute, rather than flat, fee on passengers entering the central business district would reduce traffic, Charles Komanoff says.

March 4, 2026

NJ Scales Back Part of Gov. Murphy’s Turnpike Boondoggle

There’s now one less thing for New Yorkers to dislike about New Jersey.

March 4, 2026

Wednesday’s Headlines: Big Game Edition

Super Bowl Tuesday lived up to the hype. Plus more news.

March 4, 2026

The Mamdani ‘Streets Master Plan’: Big! Bold! No Mileage Benchmarks!

Benchmarks? They don't have to show you any stinking mileage benchmarks.

March 4, 2026

Lawmaker Pushes FDNY To Get On Board With Protected Bike Lanes

FDNY brass recently claimed bike lanes impede emergency responses.

March 4, 2026

Mamdani’s DOT Endorses Adams’s ‘Unacceptable’ Opposition To Universal Daylighting, Stunning Abreu

The new mayor said he wants "streets that are the envy of the world" — yet he continues his predecessor's flawed policy on daylighting.

March 3, 2026
See all posts