New York City's Park Avenue to Get a Major Makeover: Wider Median, Greenery, and More

Park Avenue Gets a Green Makeover in Midtown East

New York City is set to transform a key stretch of Park Avenue, between East 46th and East 57th Streets in Midtown East, Manhattan. The plan aims to create a more pedestrian-friendly and inviting atmosphere by adding greenery, seating, concessions, and safer crossings.

The project is closely tied to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's (MTA) ongoing rehabilitation of the Grand Central Terminal Train Shed, which lies beneath Park Avenue. As the MTA finishes its work, the city will enhance Park Avenue with a wider median, featuring landscaping and seating areas.

The Department of Transportation has issued a request for proposals (RFP) seeking a design team to develop concepts for this widened median, which will include cycling lanes and pedestrian walkways. Funding for the project comes from the East Midtown Governing Group, established as part of the 2017 Greater East Midtown Rezoning. This rezoning mandates that new office developments and the sale of development rights contribute to public realm improvements.

This redesign is part of a broader initiative to establish a network of public spaces in Midtown, as recommended by the “New” New York Panel, created to revitalize the city's economy. Other initiatives include the expansion of the Broadway Vision Plan, the Fifth Avenue redesign, and the opening of Plaza33 at Penn Station.