NEW YORK (1010 WINS) –New York City is rolling out the largest number of open streets at schools yet, aiming to boost safety and give kids extra outdoor space to play, the city's Department of Transportation announced on Thursday.
DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez announced the launch of 71 open streets at schools across the city, marking the biggest expansion since the program started during the pandemic.
“Streets have always been where kids play and connect—and with our Open Streets program, we’re giving that space back to our schoolchildren, allowing them to safely learn, develop new skills, and make pick-ups and drop-offs easier for parents and guardians,” said Rodriguez.
The Open Streets program is designed to enhance safety for kids, facilitate smoother pick-ups and drop-offs, and create more outdoor play and learning spaces. The initiative was solidified into law in the spring of 2024 and now has a legal framework for streets dedicated to play and school support.
The program is funded by the DOT’s recent $30 million commitment to creating and maintaining high-quality public spaces, including plazas and Open Streets, through the city’s Public Space Equity Program.
In 2025, the DOT will, for the first time, offer funding to schools specifically for managing, operating, and programming Open Streets.
The full list of participating schools is available on the DOT’s website.
Applications for 2025 will open in October, with more details on how schools can apply and receive funding.