Even though visiting Rockefeller Center is a must-do for the holiday season in NYC, the crowd congestion can definitely make it less than enjoyable. But this year, that might be different.
The Mayor’s office announced on Friday they are implementing a huge expansion of the walkable, pedestrian space around Rockefeller Center and Radio City Music Hall, with partial closures of 49th and 50th Streets, 5th and 6th Avenues.
Starting Friday, November 29 these streets will become “pedestrianized,” which will help spread out tons of foot traffic.
This includes:
- 49th and 50th Streets between 5th and 6th Avenues will be open only to pedestrians during the most congested hours (between 2 p.m. and midnight from Monday to Thursday, 1 p.m. and midnight on Friday, and 10 a.m. and midnight on Saturdays and Sundays).
- Barriers will be placed on the east and west sides of the streets on 5th Avenue between 48th and 52nd Streets so one lane of traffic will become pedestrian walking space. There will also be no turns allowed on on 47th, 49th, or 51st Streets.
- Movable barriers may be placed on the east side of 6th Avenue between 48th and 52nd Streets, eliminating one lane of traffic to create more pedestrian space.
- MTA buses will bypass 48th to 52nd Streets.
The NYPD and DOT (Department of Transportation) will also be monitoring the area and will rearrange the barriers if needed.
In a press release, Mayor de Blasio said:
“The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is New York City’s crown jewel during the holidays, and we’re always excited to welcome the world to see it—but when the world descends on Rockefeller Center for a month on end, additional tools are clearly necessary so that our Vision Zero agenda stays in place. This historic announcement pedestrianizing Rockefeller Center will keep holiday revelers safe while ensuring minimal disruption to the rest of the life of the city.”
Featured image: Facebook / Rockefeller Center