Daylighting Intersections
Daylighting is a simple traffic-calming treatment that dramatically improves intersections.
Daylighting an intersection means that the curb space at the corner of an intersection is kept free of cars. Opening up that space makes it much easier for pedestrians entering the crosswalk to see oncoming cars and easier for people driving to see those pedestrians. And when you remove the vehicle from that location, you have new space to reallocate for amenities like public seating, bike corrals, or planters.
Intersections are the most dangerous place on our streets; 68% of crashes in New York City happen there. Daylighting – especially when it’s hardened by placing objects in the space to physically prevent drivers from driving or parking there – is a proven tool that has been used around the world to significantly reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities at intersections. When visibility increases, safety increases.
Daylighting also improves our experience of a street. No one enjoys the feeling of having to peek around a parked car or inch into oncoming traffic just to determine if it’s safe to continue. There is a negative psychological impact to constantly navigating such uncertain or threatening situations. Mental well-being and peace of mind are just as important as physical safety in a livable city.
Open Plans has worked directly with 23 community boards, in four of the five boroughs, to pass daylighting resolutions in their districts. Representing almost 3 million New Yorkers, this groundswell of support demonstrates that New Yorkers are eager for safer intersections and don’t mind trading street parking to get them. In addition, over 170+ civic groups have sent letters of support for daylighting.
New York State law actually mandates daylighting at all intersections, but New York City currently opts out. A bill currently in the City Council—Int. 1138—would mandate that the City ends that exemption, daylighting every intersection with physical hardening, which is crucial to ensuring daylighting delivers safer streets. There is also a bill in the New York State legislature—S445 and A3730—that would end the City’s ability to opt out of the daylighting law. Open Plans supports these bills, especially the City bill that includes the crucial mandate for hardening infrastructure.
Momentum for daylighting is stronger than ever. As of August 2025, 25 Council Members, 3 Borough Presidents, and the Public Advocate have signed on to sponsor Int. 1138. At the state level, 10 senators are sponsoring S445 and 25 Assemblymembers are sponsoring A3730. Over 170 civic groups and organizations have sent letters of support, and 23 community boards across four boroughs have passed daylighting resolutions—demonstrating widespread support for safer, more livable streets.