New York City Mayor Eric Adams has announced a $152.7 million investment to transform the section of Fifth Avenue from Bryant Park to Central Park into a pedestrian-friendly boulevard. The redesign aims to create a safer and more walkable space, boosting the area’s economic output.
The project will expand sidewalks by 46%, reduce traffic lanes, and add greenery, including 230 new trees, 20,000 square feet of planters, and improved lighting and seating. It is inspired by iconic streets like Paris’ Champs Élysées.
According to City Hall, the revamped corridor will not only enhance pedestrian experience but also generate significant revenue through increased property and sales tax taxes. The project is expected to pay for itself in under five years.
Currently, Fifth Avenue accommodates up to 23,000 pedestrians per hour during peak times. The redesign will double pedestrian space and shorten crossing distances by a third, making the area more accessible.
Construction is set to begin after design completion in 2025, with underground infrastructure upgrades included. This historic investment marks the start of a new chapter for Fifth Avenue, transforming it from an outdated road into a beautiful tree-lined boulevard that prioritizes pedestrians.
Source: https://gothamist.com/news/mayor-adams-unveils-150m-plan-to-transform-5th-avenue-into-pedestrian-centered-boulevard