Major Redesign Planned for Canal Street Corridor
New York City’s Department of Transportation (DOT) recently released a redesign proposal for Lower Manhattan’s Canal Street corridor and surrounding area. Part of the proposal will result in a widening of the sidewalks across several blocks from West Street to Bowery, creating “super sidewalks” that will alleviate the current congestion from heavy foot traffic and street vendors experienced by pedestrians. In addition, a new protected bike lane and more public space will be created. The project initially shared in August with local stakeholders is expected to be completed by next summer. Some full block extensions and street closures, shortened street crossings, and shifts in bike lanes are also among the list of planned improvements. Many of the design changes were driven by the result of a 2022 DOT survey, which revealed that “nearly all visitors get to Canal Street by walking, public transit, or cycling,” with only 4% of shoppers and 3% of restaurant-goers or other visitors using a car to reach the area. Several in-person workshops enabling New Yorkers to share feedback were scheduled throughout September, with the final workshop scheduled for October 1. The Canal Street redesign proposal is one of several city corridors slated for infrastructure improvements such as the Bronx’s Grand Concourse, Park Avenue, and Fifth Avenue.