In an effort to enable "safer and simpler crossings for pedestrians" in the tourist-heavy areas of Times and Herald squares, the New York City Department of Transportation has begun a pilot program, Green Light for Midtown, to reduce traffic in targeted areas on Broadway.
The project runs along Broadway from Columbus Circle to 25th Street. Beginning May 24, Broadway was closed to through-traffic at Times Square from 47th to 42nd streets and Herald Square from 35th to 33rd streets.
The DOT is expected to monitor the project through the fall and present an evaluation at the end of the year.
Construction will realign the street grid on Sixth and Seventh avenues, adding pedestrian-only zones in the areas of Times and Herald squares.