Founded in 1999, Open Plans promotes civic engagement for livable streets. Our tools — information, education, and activation — empower residents to shape their communities.
New Yorkers across every demographic support safer streets, even if it means removing parking. With 65% of city travel already sustainable, residents want the change. As Mayor-elect Mamdani signals support for livable streets, momentum builds. In other news, the Universal Daylighting bill now has 26 co-sponsors but needs Speaker Adams to schedule a vote before session ends. Join the phonebank November 6 or rally at City Hall November 12 to push this across the finish line.
The vast majority of NYC residents want safer, quieter neighborhoods with streets that prioritize people over cars. Survey data shows overwhelming support across all demographics for transforming streets so kids can safely bike to school, even if it means removing parking and slowing traffic. Nearly 65% of all travel by New Yorkers is sustainable, and residents want more greenery, outdoor dining, and safety infrastructure. The biggest obstacle isn't public opinion—it's political will.
NYC traffic has gotten worse—the data proves it. Vehicle Miles Traveled increased 16% between 2014 and 2023, with private driving making up 80% of VMT. Our new report "Hit the Brakes" calls on DOT to reduce VMT by 40% by 2035 through proven strategies like Bus Rapid Transit, Low Traffic Neighborhoods, expanded congestion pricing, and eliminating policies that encourage driving. It's time to align our priorities with tangible goals for safer, cleaner streets.
It's time to bring Universal Daylighting to a vote. Int. 1138 would daylight every NYC intersection to improve visibility and save lives, backed by 23 community boards, 170+ organizations, and 90+ elected officials. But Council Member Gale Brewer quietly removed her name from the bill despite all three of her community boards supporting it. We're calling on Speaker Adrienne Adams to demonstrate real leadership by bringing this proven safety measure to the floor for a vote.
This report urges NYC to set a citywide goal to reduce driving, invest in tools for measuring VMT, reconsider policies that increase driving, and adopt proven strategies that reduce optional driving.
Two years after NYC DOT's Curb Management Action Plan, we evaluated the they progress made and outline the work still needed to make our curbs work for all New Yorkers.
We’re teaming up with the Clarkson Street school community, Project for Public Spaces and NYCDOT to turn their street into a vibrant, safe space for connection and play.