Park Avenue Will Be Redesigned To Be Safer With More Green Space

NEW YORK CITY — City officials are looking to put the “park” back in Park Avenue.

Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez announced plans to add greenery, public seating, concessions, and safer crossings for pedestrians in Park Avenue between East 46th Street and East 57th Street.

This effort comes as the city continues to advance its vision to permanently reimagine Fifth Avenue as a safer, less congested, pedestrian-centered boulevard.

“High-quality public spaces aren’t just a luxury — they’re a necessity, and they’re a vital component of our vision to revitalize commercial corridors like Midtown and build a safer, more affordable, better city for all New Yorkers,” Adams said in a statement. “Our ambitious project will ensure that as the MTA completes its underground structural work, the Park Avenue that goes back on top will be better than ever, with more space for people to enjoy the greatest city in the world.”

The city and the MTA are currently rehabilitating and repairing the Grand Central Terminal Train Shed, which spans from East 46th Street to East 57th Street.

The project will address critical infrastructure needs by replacing the train shed roof structure and waterproofing membrane while enhancing Park Avenue.

The transformational redesign of Park Avenue that emerges from this project will enhance public space, promote sustainable transit options, and foster community among residents and visitors.

Construction is underway on the block of Park Avenue between East 47th and East 48th Street. That block will be the first along the avenue to feature a wider median when the street is restored as early as 2025.

We’re putting the ‘park’ back in Park Avenue! This project will transform this iconic stretch of Manhattan’s Park Avenue by adding greenery and making important safety improvements. The Adams administration continues to reimagine public space in record ways,” said DOT Commissioner Rodriguez. “This street redesign is a key piece of a new vision for East Midtown, and we look forward to identifying a partner to make this vision a reality.”