Transportation Alternatives
2025 Impact Report
Transforming Streets for People
Friends,
As I look back on this year, I’m filled with gratitude for the movement we’ve built together. 2025 was a landmark year for New York City — and for everyone who believes that our streets should be safe, vibrant public spaces for all. From the long fought launch of the Congestion Relief Zone to the first-ever pedestrian-only path on the Queensboro Bridge, the progress we’ve made didn’t come easily. It came from years of organizing, from families who turned their grief into action, and from advocates who refused to accept the status quo on our streets. These victories remind us that change is not only possible — it’s already happening.
One of the most joyful moments of the year came when the NYC Century returned after a five-year hiatus. Thousands of riders took to the streets for this signature ride, celebrating the freedom, community, and hope that biking represents in our city. The energy that day was a powerful reminder of what we’re fighting for: a New York where everyone, of every age and ability, can move safely and joyfully through their city.
This year also saw congestion pricing finally become a reality, and the results speak for themselves: cleaner air, faster commutes, fewer crashes, and more people choosing transit. We launched the Bicycle Blueprint — a bold plan to make New York a world-class biking city — and we saw the Stop Super Speeders bill move through the State Senate, a crucial step toward holding reckless drivers accountable. Every one of these moments was driven by you — the volunteers, members, and supporters who power Transportation Alternatives. Together, we’ve proven that advocacy works, that local leadership matters, and that a safer city is within reach.
As we look ahead to 2026, we have so much more to do. A new mayoral administration offers a rare opportunity to accelerate the transformation of our streets — to deliver on the promise of congestion pricing, expand car-free school streets, and build a truly connected network for walking, biking, and public transit. We’ll keep pushing for safe streets legislation at the state level, and we’ll keep growing our grassroots movement in every borough, because lasting change starts at street level.
Every safer crossing, every new busway, every family spared from tragedy — it all starts with your support. If you believe that every New Yorker deserves to walk, bike, and ride safely, I hope you’ll stand with us as we take the next steps together. Thank you for being part of this movement — for believing in the power of people to transform their city, one street at a time.
Onwards,
Ben Furnas
Executive Director
2025 BY THE NUMBERS
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT 2025
New Busway Coming to 34th Street!
As part of the Midtown South Mixed-Use Plan, New Yorkers will get a new busway on 34th Street along with major improvements to Broadway, two longtime campaigns supported by TA’s Manhattan Activist Committee.
With a dedicated, car-free 34th Street busway, and fully pedestrianized Broadway, this plan puts people first on some of our busiest streets — making Midtown a model for New York City and the world. We will continue to fight any federal resistance for these improvements to 34th street!
No New Highway in the Bronx
In response to years of community organizing, NYSDOT scrapped a harmful “traffic diversion” project that would have expanded the Cross Bronx Expressway and worsened air pollution for more than 64,000 residents living nearby. We were proud to be a part of the Stop the Cross Bronx Expansion Coalition — a united front of Bronx residents, community leaders, environmental advocates fighting for clean air and community health – to secure this win.
Congestion Pricing Works!
After a hard fought victory — including lawsuits, federal delays, and fierce political opposition — the data is in and congestion pricing is exceeding expectations. Since tolling took effect in January, the congestion relief zone has seen faster commutes, cleaner air, and even more business activity. Traffic fatalities and serious injuries are down and transit ridership is up, all with no increase in traffic in surrounding areas like the Bronx. Congestion pricing is fulfilling its promise for safer streets and better quality of life in New York City.