by Howard Morrel & Leslie Hirsch
57th Street Report
Central Park is about to become even more pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly. The city is rolling out a major redesign of the park’s iconic six-mile loop, aiming to reduce conflicts between walkers, runners, and bikers. With more e-bikes zipping through since cars were banned in 2018, it’s time for a smarter layout.
What’s Happening?
Starting March 17, 2025, the NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) will begin repaving the loop’s southern section, wrapping up by late April. But this is more than just a resurfacing job—it’s a full-blown reconfiguration designed to create a safer, smoother experience for everyone.
A Fresh New Layout
The loop will be divided into three dedicated lanes:
- Inner Lane: Walkers and joggers get their own space—no more dodging cyclists!
- Middle Lane: Slower-moving bikers can cruise comfortably.
- Outer Lane: Reserved for emergency vehicles, maintenance crews, and faster e-bikes.
And that’s not all…
- New Bike Signals: Upgraded traffic lights will help control bike flow and reduce congestion.
- More Routes: A brand-new bike path along the Bridle Path at 86th Street will give cyclists an extra option.
Why This Matters
The same approach was a hit in Prospect Park, where a similar redesign made things safer and more efficient. The Central Park update will start with the southern loop (96th Street on the West Side to 90th Street on the East) and later expand north, aligning with the revamp of the Davis Center near the Harlem Meer.
Safer, smoother, and more organized—what’s not to love?
Want to know more? Let’s talk!
