On December 5, 2022, the Department of Transportation announced the availability of online applications for the 2023 Open Streets program. Through the Open Streets program, the Department of Transportation works with community organizations, schools, and businesses to provide activities in public space created by closing roads to vehicular traffic.
Department Of Transportation
“Streets for Recovery” Report Details Success of Outdoor Dining on Open Streets
The report uses data aggregated by Department of Finance to highlight the economic benefits of open streets laws. On October 25, 2022, Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez announced the release of Streets for Recovery, a report on Open Streets policy developed in collaboration with Bloomberg Associates. This first-in-the-nation report uses Department of Finance data to highlight the economic benefits of Open Streets during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
DOT Announces “Trick or Streets” To Use Open Streets for Safe Halloween Activities
On October 31, 2022, almost 100 of the City’s Open Streets and pedestrian spaces will be open for safe Halloween activities to provide children with an opportunity to have fun on car-free streets. Through the Department of Transportation and community partners, open streets will be available from 4 to 8 pm on Halloween night through the “Trick or Streets” program.
NYC’s Speed Cameras Go 24/7
Since the automated enforcement program launched in 2014, speeding violations dropped on average of 72 percent at camera locations. On August 1, 2022, all of the City’s speed cameras began operating 24/7/365. This change stems from June 24’s passage of a state law amending speed camera hours. The bill’s prime sponsors in the State Assembly and Senate were Assembly Member Deborah Glick and State Senator Andrew Gounardes, respectively.
Department of Transportation Seeks Concessionaire for Fordham Plaza
On July 19, 2022, the NYC Department of Transportation issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) seeking concessionaires “for the development, operation, and maintenance of an outdoor market” at Fordham Plaza. The plaza is located at the intersection of Fordham Road, Third Avenue and East 189th Street in the Bronx.
DOT Announces Completed Intersection Redesign
This project is part of the Adams administration’s commitment to fixing 1,000 intersections a year. On July 29, 2022, Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez announced the completion of an intersection redesign at Highland Boulevard and Vermont Place. Located in Highland Park near the Ridgewood Reservoir, the intersection was redesigned to improve pedestrian safety and greenspace access for the many Brooklyn and Queens residents who enjoy the park.