It’s Time to Fix Canal Street

Pedestrians make up 64% of all people using Canal Street, yet we give cars and trucks the majority of the street space. This car-centric design makes Canal Street one of Lower Manhattan’s most congested and dangerous streets.

Its current design prioritizes cars and trucks, posing a danger to pedestrians and cyclists. Despite this, most people arrive on Canal Street on foot, by transit, or by bicycle.

Canal Street runs through Council District 1, which has some of the highest traffic volumes in the city. The impact? Some of the slowest buses in the city and among the worst air pollution for a district where 79% of households are car-free, according to Spatial Equity NYC.

Pedestrians shouldn’t be forced to walk on narrow sidewalks. Bikers shouldn’t have to ride on dangerous, highway-like roads. Delivery workers shouldn’t have to carry heavy loads in traffic. For too long New Yorkers have been faced with a street that puts people’s safety last.

New Yorkers shouldn’t have to risk their lives crossing Canal Street. Manhattan’s Boulevard of Death needs more space for people NOW.