Updated
Updated · Gothamist · Sep 20
NYC Flags 20 Gridlock Days Through 2026 as UN Week Traffic Drops Below 4 Mph
Updated
Updated · Gothamist · Sep 20

NYC Flags 20 Gridlock Days Through 2026 as UN Week Traffic Drops Below 4 Mph

3 articles · Updated · Gothamist · Sep 20

Summary

  • New York City said 20 "gridlock days" will hit through Dec. 23, starting Sept. 21, with this week's U.N. General Assembly expected to bring the worst immediate delays.
  • Midtown traffic during U.N. week typically slows to under 4 mph, and officials said daily large protests, heavy policing and rolling street closures will make driving even slower than usual.
  • The congestion calendar extends beyond the Sept. 21-25 assembly to Nov. 18-19, Nov. 24 and a heavy cluster of December dates, especially Dec. 2-18 and Dec. 23.
  • DOT plans to use roadside message boards to warn motorists and is urging people to take transit, walk or bike, pointing to the protected First Avenue Tunnel bike lane near U.N. headquarters.

Insights

With Midtown traffic crawling below 4 mph, how will emergency responders navigate the massive gridlock during the UN General Assembly?
Could the unprecedented multi-agency security and no-fly zones for the 81st UNGA push everyday NYC infrastructure to its breaking point?
As global leaders lock down Manhattan, how will local businesses survive the severe logistical disruptions and delivery halts this week?