Mayor Mamdani Puts Even More 'Park' Back in Park Avenue With More Space for People

Dedicated pedestrian space in the planted medians will feature flexible programming, temporary art and new vantage points for viewing iconic Midtown landmarks.

The updated design covers 11 blocks from 46th Street to 57th Street. It would remove one travel lane in each direction and convert one additional southbound travel lane into a two-way protected bike lane. The expanded medians will accommodate seating, plantings and other pedestrian amenities, while new crosswalks will connect the medians along the corridor.

The project area sits directly above the Grand Central Terminal train shed, which is undergoing a major capital rehabilitation by Metro-North Railroad. As the MTA replaces and waterproofs the structure below, the City is using the opportunity to transform the avenue above, aligning major infrastructure investment with a broader vision for public space shaped by community input.

"The redesign of Park Avenue has been shaped by New Yorkers, for New Yorkers. I am pleased that this stretch of Midtown will be transformed into a safer, more beautiful space for our community to bike, walk, drive and enjoy the City," said Congressman Jerrold Nadler. "As more people turn to biking and walking as cleaner, more effective modes of transportation, we must continue updating our infrastructure to keep our riders and pedestrians safe."

"Today marks an important step toward transforming Park Avenue into a world-class boulevard that works for people, not just cars," said Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal. "After extensive engagement with Community Boards 5 and 6, I'm pleased that DOT's latest design would widen the median and create more space for pedestrians, public art and landscaping. I'm also glad DOT listened to community feedback by moving the proposed two-way bike lane alongside the median while preserving the expanded pedestrian space. I'm grateful to Mayor Mamdani and Commissioner Flynn for advancing this ambitious reimagining of one of Manhattan's most iconic thoroughfares, and I look forward to seeing work get underway."

"Manhattan Community Board 6 is pleased to see DOT's updated designs respond to feedback from our resolution and better balance pedestrian space, greenery and dedicated bicycle infrastructure," said Sandra McKee, Chair of Manhattan Community Board 6. "The proposed bike infrastructure in the roadway, separated from the pedestrian-focused medians, reflects an important step toward a Park Avenue that is safer, greener and more welcoming for everyone. We appreciate DOT's continued engagement with our community and look forward to working with our partners, stakeholders and the public as this transformative public realm project moves ahead."

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