It’s quite literally impossible to avoid traffic delays in NYC (especially considering it’s the worst city for driving to begin with and is the most congested city in the world) and unfortunately there’s no light at the end of the tunnel here–that’s according to the list of Gridlock Alert Days recently released by the NYC DOT.
Unfortunately though the holiday season brings festive cheer to the city–from holiday markets to themed pop-up bars–it also brings traffic jams and relentless horn honking, and the NYC DOT has identified 13 Gridlock Alert Days through the end of the year, right when tourist levels rise and holiday activities start to kick in around the city.
During Gridlock Days NYC DOT strongly encourages drivers to instead use alternate modes of transportation, such as regional rail lines, the subway and bus system, ferries (which now have new travel guides that bring sightseeing to a whole new level), cycling, and walking.
The remaining 2024 Gridlock Alert Days are as follows:
- Friday, November 22
- Tuesday, November 26
- Tuesday, December 3
- Wednesday, December 4
- Thursday, December 5
- Friday, December 6
- Tuesday, December 10
- Wednesday, December 11
- Thursday, December 12
- Friday, December 13
- Tuesday, December 17
- Wednesday, December 18
- Thursday, December 19
NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez stated:
We strongly encourage New Yorkers and those in the region to travel by transit every day of the year—but it’s especially important during Gridlock Alert days…New Yorkers should do their part in minimizing congestion and seeking alternative modes of transportation.
Variable Message System boards are posted around New York City warning drivers of expected delays. More information is posted on NYC DOT’s website.