Lawn chairs in Times Square : an analysis of the Pilot Streets Program and the provisional project approach for New York City's Green Light in Midtown project

Abstract

In 2009 the New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) initiated a Pilot Streets Program that called for the temporary closure of Broadway between 47th and 42nd Streets to all vehicular traffic. With Times Square and the Green Light for Midtown project as a central case study, this thesis explores the methods behind the temporary project approach. How does this approach differ from more conventional planning methods? What performance indicators are used to evaluate project results and impacts? What quantitative and qualitative factors influence the decision to make the provisional project permanent? Can this strategy serve as an alternative approach to the more conventional and longer duration implementation methods practiced widely across the US? Can it build public support for such initiatives? The Green Light in Midtown project was implemented in a very short time period, at low cost, based on an explicit commitment of government to assess the performance of the project over an eight-month period in relation to a set of measurable criteria. Measurements showed that diverted traffic moved more quickly, injuries to motorists and pedestrians declined, and pedestrian activity increased, while more qualitative assessments were difficult to achieve. This innovative project approach shows signs of success in making large-scale policies and programs tangible to residents, workers, stakeholders and visitors.