NYC Unveils Major Redesign of Fifth Avenue to Prioritize Pedestrians

New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced a transformative redesign of Fifth Avenue, turning it into a pedestrian-centered boulevard. The plan, announced on Thursday, October 17th, created in collaboration with the Future of Fifth Partnership, aims to expand sidewalks, add greenery, and enhance public safety while reducing traffic lanes. The redesign will make Fifth Avenue more accessible and aesthetically appealing, benefitting both locals and visitors.

Mayor Adams emphasized the importance of the project, stating, “New Yorkers deserve an iconic boulevard that will rival the rest of the world. We’re nearly doubling walkable sidewalk space, adding hundreds of new trees and planters, and much more. This project will not only improve the pedestrian experience but also pay for itself in less than five years through increased tax revenues.” The redesign is expected to generate significant economic benefits for the city, building on the success of previous pedestrian-focused initiatives.

First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer highlighted the positive impact on the city’s economy and quality of life, saying, “The redesign will profoundly improve quality of life while increasing economic activity. This project will fulfill the ‘New’ New York Action Plan’s recommendations for revitalized public spaces.”

Madelyn Wils, interim president of the Fifth Avenue Association, added, “This visionary design will transform our overcrowded avenue into a spacious and green corridor. We are grateful to this administration and our partners in government for helping to turn this vision into a reality.”

New York City Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez also praised the redesign, stating, “By dramatically widening the sidewalks of Fifth Avenue, we’ll be creating a much more welcoming and comfortable pedestrian experience. This proposal will serve the vast majority of people traveling by foot and make the avenue greener and safer for everyone.”

The project is part of the city’s broader effort to revitalize public spaces and improve the pedestrian experience.