New York City Unveils Comprehensive Greenway Expansion Plan

New York City has released a major plan to expand and enhance its network of greenways, the city’s multi-use corridors for walking, cycling, and recreation. The plan, titled Greater Greenways: The New York City Greenway Plan, was unveiled by NYC Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez, NYC Parks Commissioner Iris Rodriguez-Rosa, and EDC Chief Infrastructure Officer Josh Krauss, alongside city and borough officials, at Manhattan’s East River esplanade.

The initiative aims to provide greater public access to parks and waterfronts, while closing gaps in the existing network and extending greenway access to communities across the five boroughs. Mayor Eric Adams highlighted the importance of increasing access to public spaces for all New Yorkers, calling greenways “vibrant spaces where New Yorkers can move, play, and thrive.”

The plan is the first comprehensive greenway strategy in over 30 years and was developed in accordance with Local Law 115 of 2022. It maps the current 506 miles of greenways, detailing the jurisdictions responsible for each segment, and identifies potential locations for new corridors, ongoing projects, and design improvements.

Greater Greenways is organized into two chapters: Greenways of Today provides an overview of the existing network, while Greenways of Tomorrow outlines future goals, including enhancing transportation options, promoting equity and accessibility, supporting health and wellness, improving environmental resilience, and fostering economic growth. The plan identifies gaps in underserved areas, particularly in the Bronx and Queens, and highlights over 100 planned or underway greenway projects citywide.

“This plan gives us a clear map for the road ahead – freshly paved and fun to walk and ride!” said NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez.

The plan also emphasizes equity, aiming to ensure that historically underserved neighborhoods gain equal access to greenway benefits, which include safer travel corridors, improved air quality, and opportunities for recreation and active transportation.

With this release, New Yorkers now have unprecedented transparency into the city’s current and planned greenway network. The administration plans to continue developing these corridors as part of an effort to connect communities, reduce reliance on vehicles, and promote a healthier urban environment.

More information and maps of the city’s greenways are available at nyc.gov/greenways.