Urban development projects have long reshaped New York City’s streets. Now, a new initiative is set to bring even more improvements to the heart of Manhattan. Mayor Adams has announced that a new two-year design study of 14th Street is soon to begin, bringing a people-centered plan for the area.
Highlights
- Mayor Adams announced news of a two-year-long design study that reimagines 14th Street.
- With $3 million in funding secured, the study is ready to begin.
- The plan focuses on improving public transit and pedestrian safety, along with other improvements.
Two-Year Design Study to Reimagine 14th Street Announced
A public-private partnership that will change the face of Manhattan’s 14th Street is on its way. Mayor Adams has unveiled a new study aimed at permanently transforming the corridor. The study is backed by a $3 million grant to support planning and community engagement.
The two-year design study aims to make 14th Street a people-first neighborhood. It will reimagine the area as a modern, pedestrian-focused corridor. While prioritizing upgrading the pedestrian and transit ride experience, it will also preserve the existing busway.
Study to Lay the Foundation of a People-Centered Design
The two-year study will focus on bringing a once-in-a-generation upgrade to the corridor. Proposed features include expanded pedestrian zones, improved landscaping, enhanced transit access, and additional green space.
“The 14th Street busway has already been transformational for New Yorkers, creating a safer, more welcoming street while dramatically speeding up buses and reducing wait times,” said the DOT Commissioner Rodriguez.
The “New” New York action plan points to public space and pedestrians as key to NYC’s economic recovery. This study aims to develop a world-class pedestrian experience and modernize anchor public spaces along 14th Street.
Now, the city will begin pursuing a consultant for the study. Once underway, the study will include community engagement to help identify priority improvements. Once this is done, the capital projects will be developed by the end of the study.
Funding for the Project
The study has been funded via a public-private partnership, providing a total grant of $3 million. Mayor Adams’ Fiscal Year 26 Adopted Budget has made a $1.5 million investment in this study.
The NYC Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) provided $500,000 in funding. Meanwhile, the Union Square Partnership and the Meatpacking District gave $1 million together. The two contributed $750,000 and $250,000, respectively.
“As part of our ‘Best Budget Ever,’ we were proud to work with the Union Square and Meatpacking District BIDs and the City Council to advance a study of 14th Street that will usher in the future of this iconic corridor,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams.
The study will be led by the NYC Department of Transportation (DOT). The department will be in close collaboration with the NYCEDC and the Business Improvement Districts. Over the past three years, Mayor Adams’ administration has converted more than 1.4 million square feet into pedestrian-friendly space.
His FY 26 Adopted Budget has funded new development plans for pedestrian safety. This announcement shows his efforts to improve the pedestrian experience and e-bike access. It also fosters the growth of e-micro mobility options.
These initiatives are part of the mayor’s broader vision to enhance public spaces while supporting economic revitalization.
