New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has recently appointed Ben Furnas, the head of Transportation Alternatives, to his transition team focusing on transportation, climate, and infrastructure. This move has raised concerns among drivers in the city due to Furnas' known stance advocating for significant changes to urban transportation and street layouts.
The appointment comes as Furnas' organization released its comprehensive transportation agenda, which includes over 80 proposed changes aimed at reshaping the city's streetscape. Among the most talked-about proposals is the creation of playgrounds in the middle of city streets and the conversion of those streets into cul-de-sacs to combat what is being called the "playground desert problem." However, the plan does not specify how traffic would be redirected, leading to concerns about potential gridlock.
Transportation Alternatives is also looking to increase the number of "school streets," where vehicle access is restricted, near every New York City school. To date, only 72 of the nearly 3,000 schools have implemented such programs. Additionally, there is a push to extend busways to all high-priority routes, a move reminiscent of the contentious vehicle restrictions on 14th and 34th streets.
The proposed changes extend to parking availability, with plans to repurpose parking spots near subway stations for amenities like larger sidewalks, bus shelters, bike parking, and public restrooms. Critics argue that this could disproportionately affect seniors, individuals with reduced mobility, and regular drivers.
City Council Member Robert Holden of Queens has voiced opposition to the plans, expressing concern for public safety and the quality of life of residents. Holden also criticized the rumored appointment of former DOT commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez, whom he referred to unfavorably based on his past tenure.
Furnas has attempted to address these concerns by suggesting that his proposals will indirectly benefit drivers. He cites the success of congestion pricing in Manhattan as an example of how reducing traffic can lead to smoother and quicker commutes for those who continue to drive.
Despite Furnas' defense, skepticism remains among residents and critics who fear the new policies will lead to increased gridlock, complicate daily commutes, and prioritize a specific activist agenda over the broader needs of New Yorkers. The appointment of Furnas signals a possible shift towards an administration that may prioritize an aggressive anti-car stance, leaving drivers apprehensive about the future of city transportation under Mayor-elect Mamdani's leadership.
