New York Street Design

Earlier this year, New York City’s Department of Transportation released their Street Design Manual, with the purpose of being a guide towards quality design and sound implementation. After defining street typologies, the document continues to outline how people interact with the space, the materials used, and aesthetics, specifically lighting and furniture considerations.

The manual’s overall goals are:

1. Design for Safety: Move people and goods safely.

2. Design for Access and Mobility: Accommodate all street users,giving priority to the most energy– and space efficient modes.

3. Design for Context: Respond to neighborhood character.

4. Design for Livability: Create a vibrant public realm with high–quality public spaces.

5. Design for Sustainability: Contribute to a healthier andmore sustainable environment.

6. Design for Visual Excellence: Create coherent and harmonious streetscapes.

7. Design for Cost–Effectiveness: Provide the greatest possible value to the public.

These ideas are expanded upon here.

These guides are fun reads as they look towards innovations and successes from cities all around the world, attempting to apply international ideas to their respective city. After all, a good design can work anywhere.

The Street Design Manual can be found via New York City’s DOT.