The NYC Department of Transportation has launched the "Smart Curbs" program on the Upper West Side, an initiative designed to make better use of curb space for the community.

Spanning West 72nd to 86th streets between Broadway and Central Park West, this area will be the first in New York City to see these changes.

The program will introduce new bike parking, loading zones for deliveries and even public seating areas. These changes aim to ease congestion, improve safety and enhance street access for everyone. The effort also aligns with the "New" New York panel’s action plan, which emphasizes public space as a key part of the city’s economic recovery.

DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez explained, “Our ‘Smart Curbs’ program is taking a blank-slate approach to modernize how we utilize curb space and make our streets safer for everyone.”

In addition to these first changes, future plans include electric vehicle charging stations and local delivery hubs. The first phase of these curbside upgrades is expected to be completed by the end of the year. If successful, the DOT hopes to expand the program to other neighborhoods across the city.