N.Y.C. Streets Won’t Be Like This Forever (for Better or Worse)

Herald Square in 1986.

"For now, this is the final installment of Street Wars. But to be clear: The battle for space on New York City’s streets is not over. It’s obvious to anyone on New York’s streets — in buses, on foot, on bikes or in cars — that the current situation feels unsustainable. Street-space conflicts are brewing in all parts of the city, and we — and you — should keep an eye on them. Right now, New York has not only the worst traffic in the United States, but also the worst traffic in the world. In addition to being annoying, traffic is an environmental and public health issue. Idling motors contribute to air pollution that is bad for our lungs. ... A delayed fire truck or ambulance can be a matter of life and death. And there are other battles brewing. ..."

NY Times (Audio)

The subway in 1979.