Project Description
In accordance with the Open Street Legislation, NYC DOT proposed rules relating to its permanent Open Streets program (the Proposed Rule). The Proposed Rule was first published in the City Record on March 27, 2023, and a public hearing was held on April 26, 2023. The Proposed Rule would codify the Open Streets application process and many of the requirements that NYC DOT utilized during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as clarify criteria for eligible open streets partners and corridors and establish a regulatory framework for how the program will be managed and operated. Pursuant to the Proposed Rule, an open street may be designated on a variety of street types, including shared streets. Additionally, as set forth in the Proposed Rule, open streets may be described as one of the following: 1. Limited Local Access: The term limited local access means signage and traffic calming measures are used to encourage drivers to drive 5 miles per hour or slower while traversing the open street and discourage the use of vehicles except the following: a. Vehicles parking on the open street (all regulations apply); b. Vehicles collecting or dropping off passengers on the open stree Vehicles making deliveries to the open stree d. Emergency vehicles; e. Access-A-Ride vehicles;f. Public utility vehicles; ag. City government service vehicles. 2. Full Closure: The term full closure means temporary closure of an open street to motor vehicle traffic, including motor vehicles intending to park, subject to Administrative Code section 19-107, to allow for a range of car-free activities that support local businesses, community organizations, and schools, to create a space for the public to gather. Emergency access and a 15-foot emergency lane must be clear at all times for emergency vehicle access. In addition to streets or segments of streets selected by NYC DOT to be designated as open streets pursuant to § 19-107.1 of the Administrative Code, NYC DOT will, pursuant to the Proposed Rule, accept applications to become an open streets partner for the purpose of managing and participating in the operation of open streets designated in areas under the NYC DOTs jurisdiction. Only an entity operating within the City may apply to become an open streets partner. NYC DOT considers the following factors when reviewing an application to designate an open street: 1. Safety of all street users; 2. Equitable distribution of open streets throughout the city; 3. Site context, including but not limited to: a. Existing parks, open streets or other open spaces and their current utilization; b. Existing access to public transportation and bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure; and c. Integration with existing pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure. 4. Presence of bus routes, truck routes or medical facilities; and 5. Access for commercial deliveries and emergency vehicles.
