New Public Spaces with NYC DOT
Street Lab is working with NYC Department of Transportation and communities across New York City to create and strengthen new Open Streets, plazas, and other public spaces in historically underserved areas of the city. To help these spaces succeed, Street Lab is offering free programming and activation, as well as support with logistics, partnerships, outreach, and community engagement, to local groups that want to try out an Open Street or improve an existing plaza or public space. To get involved, contact us!
Map of recent work…

In 2021, we piloted 10 new Open Streets and plazas in nine high-need neighborhoods:
- Jamaica, Queens
- Queens Village, Queens
- Hollis, Queens
- Ozone Park, Queens
- Far Rockaway, Queens
- Corona, Queens
- Concourse, Bronx
- Bushwick, Brooklyn

In 2022, we piloted 12 new Open Streets and plazas in six high-need neighborhoods:
- Murray Hill, Queens
- Brownsville, Brooklyn
- Kensington, Brooklyn
- Fordham, Bronx
- Mott Haven, Bronx
- Belmont, Bronx

In 2023-24, we’ve expanded to more neighborhoods and are offering local groups support with:
- Obtaining permits
- Community engagement: outreach, workshops, surveys
- Staffing to support operations
- Regular activation with Street Lab’s pop-up programs
- Engaging local organizations, artists, and small businesses to provide activities
- Inviting libraries and local groups to participate
- Photography, evaluation, and documentation
Made possible by
