PROJECT HISTORY
The challenge
The “New” New York Panel, launched by Mayor Adams and Governor Hochul, committed to reimagining 24/7 commercial districts to foster economic growth.
Future of Fifth
New York’s world-famous shopping district puts pedestrians first
The solution
A planning process brought together a unique public-private partnership with stakeholders across East Midtown and built on years of studies.
The impact
The groundbreaking redesign envisions a pedestrian-centric boulevard, bolstering economic activity along one of New York City’s most iconic boulevards.
46%
increase in sidewalk expansion
40%
reduction in traffic lanes
The challenge
This famous stretch of real estate from Bryant Park to Central Park features iconic destinations from the New York Public Library’s flagship location to Rockefeller Center, alongside destination shopping. Yet with tens of thousands of locals and tourists visiting daily, the limited 23-foot-wide sidewalks no longer support the foot traffic Fifth Avenue attracts.
The solution
An ambitious public-facing plan will transform Fifth Avenue from park to park into a world-class public space. The City’s vision prioritizes safety and economic development, while retaining the spirit of Fifth Avenue’s distinctive location.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ Open Streets holiday initiative laid the groundwork to permanently reimagine Fifth Avenue from Bryant Park to Central Park. The City saw tremendous success during the 2022 and 2023 holiday seasons when it closed Fifth Avenue to vehicular traffic resulting in an increase in pedestrians and revenue.
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A public-private partnership between New York City and four key business improvement districts and civic organizations along East Midtown is leading the transformation of the district. Support for the vision stems from the “New” New York Panel convened by Mayor Adams and Governor Kathy Hochul to “Reimagine New York’s Business Districts as Vibrant 24/7 Destinations.”
To advance the redesign, Arcadis was selected by the New York City Economic Development Corporation, alongside Sam Schwartz, James Corner Field Operations and Public Works Partners, and 10 additional firms, including robust participation by minority and women-owned businesses.
The redesign includes world-class streetscapes with 46 percent wider and more accessible sidewalks and a reduction from five traffic lanes to three. More than 230 trees will provide canopies to mitigate rising temperatures, and an additional 20,000 square feet of greenery will beautify the corridor. Enhancements also include seating that inspires interaction and creates a sense of place. The public realm will feature unique layouts that highlight Fifth Avenue’s iconic destinations. Pedestrian-first intersections will prioritize safety by reducing crossing lengths.
Conceptual designs were presented during an open house in October 2024. Schematic design is expected by summer 2025.
The reimagining of Fifth Avenue as an even grander corridor is as much an economic story as it is a sustainability story. The strength of Arcadis is our ability to work alongside global clients like New York City and their various stakeholders to deliver public spaces that are both economic catalysts for surrounding communities and deliver sustainable urban outcomes.
The impact
The first major redesign of Fifth Avenue in 200 years sets the stage for the future of this destination corridor with innovative ideas that will transform the environment to create a pedestrian-friendly dynamic retail corridor. A similar evolution is happening in major cities around the world.
New York’s investment in its ongoing revitalization will create a safe and welcoming environment for the millions of people who frequent the iconic Fifth Avenue corridor any time of the year.
