NYC Announces Gridlock Alert Days, Where Traffic is Expected to Be The Worst, They Include The Entire Next Week

New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez today released a list of Gridlock Alert Days through the end of the year, including the week of United Nations General Assembly (September 18th to September 22nd). Drivers should expect extensive street closures and delays across Manhattan for the duration of next week. NYC DOT strongly encourages drivers to use alternative modes of transportation.

“We strongly encourage New Yorkers and those in the region to travel by transit every day of the year—but it’s especially important during Gridlock Alert days,” said NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “The UN General Assembly is a great event each year the city is proud to host, but New Yorkers should do their part in minimizing congestion and seeking alternative modes of transportation.”

Gridlock Alert Days: NYC DOT has identified 19 Gridlock Alert Days through the end of the year – the days when traffic is expected to be at its slowest and most congested. NYC DOT traffic data shows that average motor vehicle speeds in Midtown during U.N. General Assembly week are their slowest of the year: less than four miles per hour, whereas Midtown traffic normally averages between four and six miles per hour. Variable Message System boards around New York City have this week warned drivers of next week’s expected delays.

Bicycle Access: NYC DOT also announced that the protected bicycle lanes in East Midtown along First and Second Avenues, which have over 7,000 daily riders, would remain open and operational during U.N. General Assembly week. Cyclists along First Avenue will use the First Avenue Tunnel between East 40th and East 49th Streets and remain in effect 24 hours a day next week. Along Second Avenue, a temporary bike lane will be in effect between East 47th and East 42nd Streets each day until 9 p.m. Cyclists on both avenues will be subject to security checkpoints and occasional, unannounced traffic freezes.

This year’s Gridlock Alert Days are:

Monday, September 18, 2023
Tuesday, September 19, 2023
Wednesday, September 20, 2023
Thursday, September 21, 2023
Friday, September 22, 2023
Wednesday, November 15, 2023
Thursday, November 16, 2023
Tuesday, November 21, 2023
Wednesday, November 29, 2023
Thursday, November 30, 2023
Friday, December 1, 2023
Tuesday, December 5, 2023
Wednesday, December 6, 2023
Thursday, December 7, 2023
Friday, December 8, 2023
Tuesday, December 12, 2023
Wednesday, December 13, 2023
Thursday, December 14, 2023
Friday, December 15, 2023