Mott Street -- A typical crowded street in Chinatown

Since the summer of 2003, the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation, in cooperation with the New York City Department of Transportation, has been studying vehicular and pedestrian concerns that affect the quality of life in Chinatown. Released in December 2004 in a final form, the Chinatown Access and Circulation Study is the culmination of their efforts and identifies possible solutions for transportation problems in this area, most of which were significantly exacerbated in the aftermath of 9/11. Recommendations outlined in the report were shaped by community meetings with Chinatown residents as well as by the input of various city agencies.

Prepared by Parsons Brinckerhoff Quade & Douglass, Inc. in association with Chan & Krieger & Associates and SIMCO Engineering, the report consists of an overview of existing conditions and the access and circulation issues confronting the community. Next, proposed transportation improvement recommendations are provided, followed by an explanation of the planning process and how the recommendations evolved over the course of the study. The report concludes with suggestions for ways to implement the recommended transportation improvements.

The study determined that enhancements to the streets in the area could improve pedestrian and vehicular mobility by "clearly delineating major street activities, better  integrating multiple street uses, and increasing the likelihood of better enforcement of street activities that involve retail sales activities and other commercial uses." Some recommendations include a new mid-block crosswalk on East Broadway between Catherine and Market Streets, new crosswalks on Worth Street at Baxter Street, delineated parking or loading zones through the use of distinctive pavements on the streets, and widened sidewalks at various locations.

To view the final report, click here.