What Changed?

1. Previous Conditions: Major traffic crossroads with high congestion, unsafe crossings, and minimal public seating
2. New Design: Full pedestrianisation of Broadway between 42nd and 47th Streets
3. Street Features Added:

• Granite paving and widened pedestrian space
• Movable seating and public furniture
• Lighting, planters, and public art
• Performance zones and better wayfinding

Community Involvement

The transformation was led by NYC DOT under Commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan, with deep input from local businesses, BID (Times Square Alliance), and the public. The initial 2009 pilot used temporary paint and furniture, allowing low-cost experimentation and feedback.

“It’s possible to change your streets quickly. It’s not expensive, it can provide immediate benefits, and it can be quite popular. You just need to reimagine your streets. They’re hidden in plain sight.” – Janette Sadik-Khan

Outcomes

• Pedestrian Volume: Increased by 11%
• Injuries: Pedestrian injuries dropped by 40%
• Traffic: No major increase in congestion on adjacent streets
• Public Satisfaction: 74% of New Yorkers supported the changes (NYC DOT survey)

Benefits

• Created a safe, car-free public space in one of the world’s densest cities
• Boosted tourism and dwell time
• Became a model for tactical urbanism and trial-based design
• Improved air quality and pedestrian flow

Photos

💡 Inspired by this transformation? Drop a pin on our map to show where a similar change could happen in the Newtown area.

Need more information?

• Green Light for Midtown Project
• The Problem

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