New York City's Open Streets program, which creates car-free spaces across the boroughs, has secured $2.1 million in funding for Fiscal Year 2026. This funding replaces expiring federal funds, but uncertainty looms as the current leading candidate for mayor, Andrew Cuomo, has not pledged to continue the initiative. While Cuomo emphasizes the importance of community feedback, his strategy mirrors that of the current administration, potentially delaying momentum for sustainable urban design. The program's financial needs and prior cutbacks may impede its continued success beyond this year's funding.
As with every policy that impacts New Yorkers, Gov. Cuomo's decisions will account for community feedback and will prioritize the safety and wellbeing of every citizen.
The pandemic-era Open Streets program transforms blocks across the five boroughs into car-free plazas, but has contracted in recent years, with several popular locations cutting back operating hours due to budget constraints.
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