By Renee Anderson
Updated: September 24, 2024 / 6:30 AM EDT / CBS New York
New York City's Gridlock Alert Days for 2024 are now in effect, coinciding with the high-level week of the United Nations General Assembly on Manhattan’s East Side. Security across the city has increased, with President Joe Biden scheduled to speak on Tuesday, along with over 140 world leaders attending the assembly throughout the week.
Traffic Complications:
On Monday, traffic was further complicated by a fuel spill on the Upper East Side at East 67th Street, between Lexington and 3rd Avenues. The FDNY responded to a spill involving 100 gallons of fuel, leading to the temporary evacuation of the nearby 19th Precinct. However, 911 service in the area was unaffected.
2024 Gridlock Alert Days Announced:
New York City's Department of Transportation (DOT) has identified 20 Gridlock Alert Days for the year, with heavy traffic expected during the U.N. General Assembly from Sept. 23-27, and during the holiday season.
NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez encourages residents to rely on public transit during these days. "The UN General Assembly is a major event, but New Yorkers can help reduce congestion by using alternative transportation methods."
During the General Assembly, average speeds in Midtown can drop to under 4 miles per hour, significantly lower than the usual 4-6 miles per hour.
Street Closures and Traffic Delays:
Drivers should expect delays around the U.N. General Assembly zone, particularly along 1st Avenue between 34th and 63rd Streets and the FDR Drive. Several streets will be restricted, with some areas, including 1st Avenue between 40th and 49th Streets, becoming "frozen zones." Below are key road closures in effect until Sept. 29:
FDR Drive (Whitehall Street to 42nd Street)
Areas around East 86th Street to East 80th Street, Park Avenue to 5th Avenue
60th Street to 34th Street, 1st Avenue to 3rd Avenue
Other closures across midtown, including major sections of 5th Avenue, Madison Avenue, and Vanderbilt Avenue
For a detailed list of street closures, please refer to local traffic updates.
Holiday Season Gridlock Alert Days:
Once the U.N. event concludes, Gridlock Alert Days will resume during the holiday season, particularly around the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and throughout December as tourists flood the city.
Here are the remaining Gridlock Alert Days for 2024:
November 20, 21, 22, 26
December 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19
In addition, the city may establish a car-free zone near Rockefeller Center to accommodate the influx of holiday visitors.
Make sure to plan accordingly, and consider using public transit on these high-traffic days to avoid delays and gridlock.
.jpeg)
0 Comments