Curb Forward in Upper West Side
Objective
To improve urban mobility and safety on the Upper West Side by optimizing curb use through data-driven analysis and community-centered recommendations.
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Description
The Curb Forward pilot project on Manhattan’s Upper West Side aimed to enhance pedestrian and cyclist safety by reimagining curb management. As project manager, I led a team in partnership with New York City Department of Transportation (NYCDOT) and local business improvement districts to analyze curb use patterns and identify areas for improvement. Through comprehensive GIS analysis, field surveys, and community feedback sessions, the project examined curb space allocation, double-parking issues, and high-traffic zones impacting safety.
The final report features a matrix of data-driven recommendations designed to optimize curb space usage while prioritizing safety and accessibility. Recommendations included adjusted loading zones, dedicated bike lanes, and pedestrian-friendly curb designs, ensuring the pilot addresses diverse mobility needs in a rapidly evolving urban environment. The project was presented to local stakeholders and NYCDOT, contributing actionable strategies that promote equitable urban mobility and support city-wide efforts in sustainable transportation planning.
Featured in the following media outlets:
- 2023-2024 – NYU Wagner: Smart Curbs Initiative
- June 12, 2024 – Westside Rag: UWS Smart Curbs Pilot Program Proposal Details Revealed: Loss of 175 Parking Spots; Locations of New Parking Meters and Loading Zones
- Oct 28, 2024 – NYC: NYC DOT Launches ‘Smart Curbs’ Program to Better Utilize Curb Space for Community Needs on Upper West Side