NYC officials discuss prospective modifications and pedestrian enhancements for 14th Street
In a bid to transform Manhattan's 14th Street into one of the city's most vibrant, safe, and people-friendly public spaces, a 24-month, $3 million public-private design study has been announced. This ambitious project aims to modernise iconic areas like Union Square Park while enhancing the overall corridor for pedestrians, commuters, and local businesses.
The study's objectives include delivering a world-class pedestrian experience, enhancing landscaping, expanding pedestrian zones, increasing greenery, improving safety, and maintaining the successful 14th Street busway. This busway, which was initiated in 2019, has significantly improved bus transit times and street safety.
The project's budget of $3 million is a collaborative effort. New York City’s fiscal year 2026 adopted budget contributes $1.5 million, with an additional $500,000 from the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC), $750,000 from the Union Square Partnership business improvement district (BID), and $250,000 from the Meatpacking District Management Association BID.
The Department of Transportation (DOT) will lead the study, collaborating with NYCEDC and the two BIDs. This public-private partnership model mirrors the city’s prior $400 million Fifth Avenue transformation, which aimed to create a people-first corridor.
Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine believes this partnership can create new opportunities for 14th Street and the neighbouring areas. He has allocated $500,000 as a "down payment" on the project, which is part of next year's budget.
The proposed upgrades could include sidewalk expansions, greenery, landscaping, and safety enhancements. DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez stated that the study aims to bolster the city’s success with the 14th Street busway.
Some transportation advocates have criticised the Fifth Avenue plan for reducing bus access and removing a bike lane. However, this 14th Street redesign study reflects Mayor Eric Adams' commitment to alternative transportation, including biking and walking.
This news comes as elected officials are also pushing for a similar redesign of 34th Street. The success of the 14th Street busway, which has largely overcome initial fierce opposition from residents, serves as a basis for the study.
[1] Source: NYC Department of Transportation [3] Source: Streetsblog NYC [5] Source: Curbed NY
This public-private partnership will also invest in the transformation of 14th Street, with funds coming from various sources such as the New York City's fiscal year 2026 budget, the New York City Economic Development Corporation, Union Square Partnership business improvement district, and the Meatpacking District Management Association. The project anticipates enhancing the lifestyle in this area by focusing on expanding pedestrian zones, increasing greenery, and improving safety, while also keeping the successful 14th Street busway, which is vital for home-and-garden activities like commuting and transporting goods.
