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

Flashback Friday: ReMOOOve the Barricades!

Clarence has been unearthing old footage from the Streetfilms vault this summer in preparation for Transportation Alternatives' 40th anniversary bash. This week's installment takes us back to the end of 1997, when the Giuliani administration and NYPD erected pedestrian barricades in Midtown, preventing people from crossing major avenues to make way for turning traffic. TA's protest got covered on all seven local newscasts, but Giuliani went ahead and made the barricades permanent. They remain to this day.

Before you hit play, guess which network led off its segment by proclaiming that "jaywalking is dangerous, slows down ambulances, and is downright rude." Hint: It's kind of surprising.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog New York City

Lawmakers Raise Doubts About Hochul’s Insurance Proposal

The governor's Uber-backed insurance plan is leaving state lawmakers unsure of its effect on crash victims and high auto premiums.

February 27, 2026

‘Broadway Vision’: City Will Revamp Six More Blocks By 2031

The facelift will cost more than $150 million.

February 27, 2026

Mamdani Falls Short of Campaign Pledge to Expand Open Streets Funding Amid Budget Crunch

The mayor's proposed budget does not expand Open Streets — and raises lots of questions.

February 27, 2026

Friday Video: Why Everyone Drives SUVs

Rollie Williams at Climate Town is back, this time explaining the "light-truck loophole."

February 27, 2026

Friday’s Headlines: Undermined at Every Turn Edition

Does the mayor run NYPD and FDNY, or is it the other way around? Plus more news.

February 27, 2026

Mamdani’s FDNY Spews Anti-Street Safety Talking Points at Bizarre Council Hearing

FDNY and DOT were at cross-purposes during a bikelash Council hearing.

February 26, 2026
See all posts