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

Broadway Vision: Watch 15 Years of Transformation in a Single Streetfilm

It's hard to see the big picture of just what has been accomplished between Times and Union squares. That's where Clarence Eckerson Jr. comes in.

Photos: Clarence Eckerson Jr.|

Four views of Broadway’s increasing awesomeness.

The progress on Broadway in Manhattan has been so incremental over the last 15 years that sometimes it's hard to see the big picture of just what has been accomplished between Times and Union squares.

That's where Clarence Eckerson Jr. comes in. The Orson Welles of the streets — who has Broadway B-roll dating back almost to "Citizen Kane" — has now put together a classic Streetfilms video capturing all the changes.

It's a must-see — if only because it will remind you how much can be accomplished when business owners realize that safe, livable streets are better for their bottom line than a bunch of cars stored all day at the curb.

Yes, all your favorite seating areas are here, beautifully maintained by well-funded business improvement districts — yet another reminder that great public spaces should not be the bastion of rich neighborhoods.

And don't miss special appearances by livable streets all stars: Janette Sadik-Khan, Charlie Todd and the irrepressible George Hahn. Enjoy:

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog New York City

Here’s A Bus Rapid Transit Plan For New York … If the City Cares

It sure beats the current method of guessing or simply basing the route on how strongly a given neighborhood opposes or supports it.

August 1, 2025

Friday’s Headlines: Water Here, Water There Edition

Blame Father Time, not Mother Nature for Thursday's subway meltdown. Plus more news.

August 1, 2025

Komanoff: Data Show Time Loss from 15 MPH E-Bike Speed Cap is No Big Deal

A 15-mile-per-hour speed limit for motorized two-wheel devices — which e-bikes are — is eminently reasonable. And it doesn't cost much time at all, our columnist found.

August 1, 2025

Cities Matter More Than Ever After Trump Officially Denies Climate Change

We're entering a new era of federal climate denial, and it's time to use a different set of tools (like congestion pricing) to fight back.

July 31, 2025

SEE IT! Small Japanese Pickup Truck Shows Bigger is Definitely Not Better

One Brooklyn business has seen the future of safe streets and heavy lugging — and it's going to be O-KEI!

July 31, 2025

Opinion: Jessica Tisch Must Get Creative About Traffic Enforcement

NYPD speed enforcement needs a revamp — fortunately the city’s own data point the way.

July 31, 2025
See all posts