NYC Expands Open Streets Program to Over 70 Schools, Enhancing Safety and Outdoor Learning

New York City announced the expansion of its Open Streets program to 71 schools, the largest expansion since the program began during the pandemic, on Thursday, August 29th. This initiative, led by the New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT), aims to improve safety for children, ease congestion during pick-up and drop-off times, and create more outdoor space for play and learning. The new expansion will particularly focus on underserved communities, with significant additions in the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens.

The Open Streets program, which was codified into law in the spring of 2024, temporarily closes streets adjacent to participating schools to vehicular traffic, providing a safer environment for children and facilitating outdoor educational activities. “The streets have historically been a place for children to play and socialize—and through our Open Streets program, we have created a new framework to give this space back to our school children to safely learn, develop new skills, and make pick-ups and drop-offs much easier for parents and guardians,” said NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. This year’s expansion is supported by a $30 million investment from the city’s Public Space Equity Program (PSEP), aimed at enhancing public spaces in under-resourced neighborhoods.

The program has received a positive response from schools and communities alike. Leslie Davol, Executive Director of Street Lab, a nonprofit organization partnering with NYC DOT, highlighted the program’s impact, saying, “We’re seeing something beautiful on these Open Streets next to schools—kids, parents, caregivers, and teachers talking with each other, laughing, running through an obstacle course, even reading a book, all together on the street.” The expansion of Open Streets at schools is part of a broader effort to reimagine public spaces in New York City, making them safer and more accessible for all residents.

As part of the program, NYC DOT is committed to continuing to support schools with operational resources, including maintenance and funding for programming. Schools can apply for additional support for the 2025 school year starting in October. This initiative not only promotes physical safety and wellness but also encourages social connection and community building among students and their families.

The new initiative reflects NYC’s ongoing efforts to create equitable and inclusive public spaces across all boroughs, ensuring that children in every neighborhood have access to safe outdoor environments. As the program expands, NYC DOT plans to continue working with local communities and organizations to maximize its positive impact.