Press Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Release #15-083
July 31, 2015
Scott Gastel/Bonny Tsang (212)839-4850

Manhattan Bridge Lower Roadway Daily Reversals to End Starting Monday, August 3

This is the first step of implementing the mobility and safety enhancements on streets near the Manhattan Bridge in Chinatown, Manhattan

Today the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) announced that the Manhattan Bridge lower roadway daily reversals will end starting Monday, August 3, as part of the plan to improve the mobility and safety on streets near the Manhattan Bridge. This is the first step of the project, which is anticipated to be completed by the end of October.

Currently, the lower roadway is Brooklyn-bound from 3-9 PM, and Manhattan-bound at all other times. The inconsistent bridge direction creates unpredictability and driver error, creating traffic conflicts. From 2009-2013, there were 133 crashes from vehicles making left turns from Bowery onto the Manhattan Bridge, and 40 crashes from vehicles exiting the Manhattan Bridge from the upper Roadway onto Chrystie Street or Canal Street.

Starting on Monday, the lower roadway will be Manhattan-bound at all times. Motorists will still be able to take the Brooklyn-bound upper roadway. To alert motorists of the upcoming change, the DOT will also be installing 3 variable message boards in the area.

The project, including the operational changes to the Manhattan Bridge lower roadway, was first presented to the Manhattan Community Board 3 and Brooklyn Community Board 2 in May. Both Community Boards supported the project.

For more information about DOT projects, please visit www.nyc.gov/dot.

—30—