NYC Considers 'Low-Traffic Neighborhoods' Pilot Program to Reduce Car Use
A proposed two-year pilot program would test methods to divert cars from residential streets, aiming to create safer and quieter urban environments.
New York City is exploring the implementation of "low-traffic neighborhoods" through a proposed two-year pilot program. The initiative, sponsored by Council Majority Leader Shaun Abreu, aims to reduce car usage on residential streets by employing traffic-calming measures.
A bill currently under consideration would task the Department of Transportation (DOT) with establishing these zones in five areas across at least three boroughs. The goal is to prevent drivers from using local streets as shortcuts, while ensuring access for residents, deliveries, and emergency vehicles.
"You can still drive to every address, get every delivery, and an ambulance can still reach your door. But drivers won’t use your block as a shortcut anymore," Abreu stated at a rally outside City Hall. The proposed methods include barriers, speed bumps, and curb extensions that narrow street corners.
The DOT would be responsible for selecting the pilot locations and most design elements, with a requirement to solicit input from community boards. Access for emergency services, sanitation vehicles, delivery trucks, and residents of the affected areas must be maintained. The program's success would be evaluated by tracking crashes, injuries, deaths, noise complaints, illegal parking, and 311 calls within and near the pilot zones.
However, the bill does not set specific targets for reducing car traffic or accidents. Some residents have expressed concern that the measures could worsen congestion. "This is a fast moving city. You can’t slow the city down," said Kojo Thompson, an 81-year-old former taxi driver from the Bronx. "It’s going to create more congestion, which we don’t need."
The initiative aligns with the current administration's "Vision Zero Reimagined" plan, which seeks to reduce traffic fatalities and injuries by shifting travel away from private vehicles. DOT Commissioner Mike Flynn indicated that "low-traffic neighborhoods" are viewed as a valuable tool for enhancing safety.
"We absolutely see the potential of low-traffic neighborhoods as an important tool for keeping New Yorkers safe," Flynn said, noting that the city is studying examples from London and other cities. He acknowledged that specific details are still being developed.
Abreu emphasized that the program intends to implement a "true neighborhood approach" rather than isolated interventions on a few blocks.
Supporters, such as James B. from Bushwick, believe the program could enhance safety for families. "I think it’s a good idea, if it works. It’s safer for families, especially with young children," he said. "Don’t use our streets as your personal highway."