New York City officials are warning drivers that the city will experience its most congested traffic periods of the year beginning later this month. The New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) has designated 20 “Gridlock Alert” days between Sept. 21 and Dec. 23, a stretch that includes the United Nations General Assembly and the busy holiday shopping season.
UN General Assembly triggers first five alert days
During the first five days, world leaders, diplomats and security personnel will flood Midtown Manhattan for the UN General Assembly. DOT data shows that vehicle speeds in Midtown historically dip below 4 mph during this week—slower than any other time of year. Typical speeds elsewhere in the city range from 4 to 6 mph.
To accommodate the influx of delegates and heightened security measures, large sections of Midtown will be closed to traffic. The closures will affect major thoroughfares and will likely cause backups that extend well beyond the immediate UN precinct.
DOT urges commuters to leave cars at home
Transportation officials are urging New Yorkers to rely on mass transit, ferries, bicycles or walking whenever possible. Signs will be posted throughout the city warning motorists of expected delays. The DOT also highlighted recent improvements to Manhattan’s bike and bus networks, including a permanent protected bike lane through the First Avenue Tunnel near the UN headquarters, expanded bike infrastructure in neighborhoods such as NoHo, the East Village and Union Square, and new bus lanes along Madison and Lexington Avenues.
Holiday season adds additional alert days
After the UN week, the DOT’s list includes several dates in November and December when holiday travel, tourism and seasonal shopping typically create heavy congestion across Manhattan. The agency advises commuters to plan ahead, consider staggered work hours, and use alternative routes when possible.
Residents can find the full schedule of Gridlock Alert days on the NYC DOT website, along with real‑time traffic updates and recommended transit options. By reducing the number of cars on the road, the city hopes to keep travel times manageable and maintain safety for both drivers and pedestrians during these peak periods.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
