Big Apple Gets Greener: NYC Expands Network of Citywide Greenways

Good news for New Yorkers who love spending time outdoors!

The city is poised for a significant expansion of its greenways network, thanks to a combination of federal funding and growing community support.

What are Greenways?

Imagine a network of multi-use paths, protected from traffic, that weave through parks, along rivers, and even on old railway lines. That's the idea behind greenways. They offer safe spaces for walking, biking, and even using electric scooters. But the benefits go beyond recreation.

Greenways can:

• Reduce traffic congestion and emissions by encouraging car-free commutes.
  

• Combat heat with trees and landscaping that provide shade and cooler temperatures.
  

• Manage stormwater runoff by absorbing rainwater and reducing flooding risks.
  

• Boost biodiversity by creating green corridors for wildlife in the urban environment.

A Citywide Effort Takes Root

Last year, Mayor Adams announced a plan to build over 40 miles of new greenways and upgrade existing ones across the city's boroughs. This ambitious project is fueled by a $7.25 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

The grant will target specific areas, including:

• Extending the Queens Waterfront route by 16 miles.

• Creating a 12-mile greenway from Coney Island to Brooklyn's Highland Park.

• Connecting Staten Island with a 10-mile greenway from the Goethals Bridge to the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge.

These are just a few examples – the city plans to roll out "early action corridors" roughly every six months, with a focus on the Harlem River Greenway in the Bronx as a first step.

Community at the Heart of the Project

Community advocates have long pushed for a unified greenway network, and they see the city's commitment as a positive step. Previously, the responsibility for greenways was fragmented across different agencies, making progress slow. Now, with the Mayor's office involved, there's hope for faster coordination and a more comprehensive plan.

Organizations like the Bronx River Alliance and the Brooklyn Greenways Initiative are calling for continued collaboration. They believe a centralized office or position within the city government is crucial for overseeing greenway development and ensuring all voices are heard – from community groups to design teams.

Looking Forward: A Greener, More Sustainable NYC

The expansion of NYC's greenways network is a win-win for residents and the environment. It offers new ways to explore the city, promotes healthier lifestyles, and helps the city adapt to a changing climate. As the project unfolds, community engagement will be key to ensuring an equitable and well-connected greenway network for all New Yorkers.

Source: Inside Climate News