Thursday, March 12, 2009

How Sustainable Are Our Streets?

It's the moment we've all been waiting for, the release of NYC DOT's Sustainable Streets Index 2008. Have no fear, we have summarized the results for you...

What is the Sustainable Streets Index? Enhancing transportation choices and encouraging the use of sustainable forms of transportation are core goals of both PlaNYC, New York City's long-term sustainability plan, and Sustainable Streets, DOT's strategic plan. Achieving these goals means facilitating walking, cycling and mass transit through a set of varied and mutually supportive measures. These include making streets and squares into more people-friendly places; providing fast, reliable and comfortable bus and train service; better managing curbside parking and delivery regulations; and ensuring the safety of all users of city streets and sidewalks.

Some General Stats
9% growth in bus and subway ridership in New York City from 2003 to 2007, while traffic volumes citywide were unchanged.

560 miles of bike lanes and paths in NYC, compared to 119 lane-miles in 1997.

44% of NYC households own a car, compared to 90% nationwide.

61% reduction in traffic fatalities in NYC since 1990.

Some Brooklyn Stats
flat traffic levels since 2003.

5% less traffic enters the Central Business District (of Manhattan) from Brooklyn than in the late 1990's, reflecting that lower Manhattan employment never returned to its pre 9/11 levels.

14% more bike riders than in 2003.

22% more bus riders than in 1998.

Learn More.

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