Mamdani's Budget Fails to Expand Open Streets, Breaking Campaign Promise

"The program is allocated just $2 million, less than the $2.1 million budgeted by the Adams administration for last year and far below the $5 million that DOT officials say is needed to keep the program running at pandemic-era capacity."

"Open Streets has been shown to help increase jobs and reduce storefront vacancies, giving the city more tax revenue. Another study, released last month by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli, found job growth on non-school Open Streets also outpaced other parts of the city."

"According to the Mamdani administration, the $2 million is 'a down payment to support the programs as the administration explores bold new ideas for our streets.'"

Mayor Zohran Mamdani's proposed budget fails to expand funding for Open Streets despite campaign promises to grow the program. The allocation of $2 million represents a decrease from the Adams administration's $2.1 million budget and falls significantly short of the $5 million DOT officials identify as necessary to maintain pandemic-era operations. The administration characterizes the $2 million as a preliminary investment while exploring new street initiatives. Uncertainty exists regarding how funds will be divided between Open Streets and Summer Streets, an established program that closes roadways for recreational use on five summer Saturdays. Research demonstrates Open Streets generates economic benefits, including increased employment and reduced storefront vacancies, while a State Comptroller study confirms job growth on non-school Open Streets exceeds growth in other city areas.

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