Get ready to experience a remarkable transformation on Broadway! The NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) is set to bring significant changes to a bustling part of this world-famous street. From nearly eliminating cars in the Garment District to creating shared corridors for pedestrians, bikes, and vehicles, this initiative is set to reshape the heart of Manhattan.

Redefining Broadway - A People-Centric Design

Garment District: A Car-Free Block

In a groundbreaking redesign plan, a significant portion of Broadway in the Garment District is poised to be free of cars. From 39th to 40th Streets, vehicular traffic will no longer be permitted, opening up space for pedestrian plazas and two-way bike lanes. This block will be adorned with two-way bike lanes, greenery, and spaces for art. Bikes will travel north and southbound in adjacent lanes, separated by street paint. The DOT, in collaboration with the Department of Design and Construction (DDC), is also installing crash-rated steel bollards at 40th and 39th Streets to prevent cars from entering this vehicle-free zone. Not only will cars be eliminated from this one block, but from 38th to 39th Streets, Broadway will become a shared corridor for pedestrians, bikes, and vehicles. Bikes will move in both directions in north and south lanes side by side. This transformation is part of the DOT's larger vision to create a premier public space in the district, enhancing pedestrian access to critical subway entrances and retaining building access for loading and deliveries while prioritizing pedestrians.

Broadway Vision since 2021

The DOT has been actively working on Broadway Vision since 2021. Initially, they applied street paint to designate areas for pedestrians and cyclists. Now, the plan includes permanent barriers such as steel bollards along 38th and 39th streets, providing greater protection against cars. Construction on this project is scheduled to start in September 2026 and will continue for two years. This long-term commitment shows the DOT's dedication to transforming Broadway into a world-class public space.

Concerns and Feedback

During the presentation of Broadway Vision to Manhattan Community Board 5 in November 2023, various concerns were raised. While DOT officials explained that the new plan would calm bike and vehicle traffic, New Yorkers expressed skepticism about the shared corridor and whether e-vehicle riders would actually slow down. Some meeting attendees emphasized the need for better design to guide traffic. However, DOT assured that they are using planters and bollards to clearly distinguish between Broadway-goers using the roadway in vehicles, as cyclists, or as pedestrians. They are aiming to create clear pathways to ensure the safety of all users. Joel Maxman, a member of the community board, highlighted the importance of keeping pedestrians safe from speeding e-vehicles and expressed concern about the two-way bike lanes. DOT responded by stating that the two-way bike lanes will likely slow bicycle traffic as riders won't feel comfortable going fast among a large number of other bikers. While some meeting attendees supported the plan, others had reservations, and the community board emphasized the need to address concerns around pedestrian safety.

Union Square: Another Phase of Transformation

Meanwhile, the DOT completed another phase of Broadway Vision at Union Square in September. Here, a new pedestrian plaza, two-way bike lanes separated only by paint, and other bike- and pedestrian-friendly features were installed between E. 17th and E. 21st Streets. Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez emphasized that through Broadway Vision, they are transforming previously traffic-choked streets into calm and welcoming places for New Yorkers and visitors. This latest phase expands pedestrian space, provides public seating, improves pedestrian crossings, and creates two-way bike connections. These changes make the streets safer, support businesses, and bring New Yorkers together.Both the Union Square and Garment District redesigns are part of the city's ongoing Broadway Vision to slow traffic and create a more welcoming environment for bikes and pedestrians from Union Square north to Columbus Circle.