New York City is launching a new program called “Smart Curbs” on the Upper West Side to better meet the needs of the community. The Department of Transportation (DOT) is piloting different uses of street space between 72nd and 86th Streets and between Central Park and Broadway. This initiative aims to enhance safety, reduce congestion, and bring order to the streets.
Deputy Mayor of Operations, Meera Joshi, highlighted the importance of rethinking the curb as a valuable asset for the city. The Smart Curbs program prioritizes community needs over a first-come-first-serve basis. By extending sidewalks for safety and creating designated spaces for various purposes like organized loading and unloading, EV charging, and more, the program aims to make walking along the street a vibrant experience.
The initial phase of the pilot program includes the installation of 30 new bike corrals and six additional commercial loading zones for trucks. Some free parking spots will be converted to metered parking in the evening, while parking will remain free overnight. Moreover, 21 new neighborhood loading zones will be established in residential areas for passenger or commercial vehicles loading and unloading, including taxi and rideshare services.
In addition to these changes, the city plans to revoke rules that previously prohibited parking on the west side of Columbus Avenue during the morning rush hour. Looking ahead to 2025, more developments are on the horizon. New curbside “hubs” will be introduced to facilitate deliveries for businesses and provide charging stations for electric vehicles.
The Smart Curbs program is a proactive step towards optimizing the use of street-edge spaces to benefit both residents and businesses. By strategically managing curbside activities, the city aims to create a more efficient and orderly urban environment. This initiative aligns with New York City’s commitment to innovative solutions for transportation and infrastructure challenges.
