Plazas
Top Categories
Eyes on the Street: A Safer, More Sociable Boulevard Takes Shape
A reader sends this view of Pike Street, taken from the Manhattan Bridge bike path late last week. You'll notice the square of light pavement connecting two mall segments. That's the intersection with Monroe Street, one of four locations slated for pedestrian plazas in DOT's most recent plan for Pike and Allen Streets [PDF]. A center median protected bike path running from Houston Street down to the water -- the first of its kind in New York City, I believe, depending on how you categorize the Sands Street bike path -- is also in the works. DOT's project presentation characterizes these changes as interim
improvements that can help generate support for further funding and
more permanent construction.
August 31, 2009
Thompson, Avella Pledge to Dump Sadik-Khan If Elected
I didn't get to watch last night's Democratic mayoral debate between Bill Thompson and Tony Avella, so I missed the high drama that ensued when the candidates were asked if they'll retain Janette Sadik-Khan as transportation commissioner. Good thing Brian Lehrer played excerpts on his show this morning (check the 13:40 mark). Now I know the answer from both: "No."
August 27, 2009
Streetfilms: Carmaggeddon Averted as Broadway Comes to Life
When New York City opened up new pedestrian zones in the heart of Midtown this summer, naysayers predicted a traffic nightmare. Nearly two months later, we're still waiting for the much-feared Carmaggedon.
July 20, 2009
Independence Day Special: The Freedom to Sit
This was the scene at Herald Square yesterday afternoon. It's full of people doing what the Times' Susan Dominus finds so un-New York: sitting down. Some of these loafers are actually putting their feet up, right in the heart of our fast-paced, cutthroat city. It's like they've never even seen The Sweet Smell of Success.
July 2, 2009
Find Out More About DOT’s Plaza Program
If you're interested in reclaiming some asphalt in your neighborhood for a new public space, now's your chance to learn more about
NYCDOT's Plaza Program. DOT is holding a series of information sessions about the program this month, including one at Brooklyn Borough Hall at 3 p.m. today, followed by a session at the Bronx Library Center tomorrow. Events in Queens and Staten Island are scheduled for next week. (Apologies to Manhattanites, whose session happened last week.)
May 12, 2009