Overview
- The NYC Department of Transportation and the Economic Development Corporation released concept designs to convert the five-point Chatham Square into a standard four-way intersection with expanded public space.
- The proposal is funded through the $55 million Chinatown Connections capital program focused on Lower Manhattan’s recovery.
- Officials say nearly 10,000 pedestrians pass through during peak periods and that shorter crossings plus more direct vehicle routes would improve safety and circulation.
- Next steps call for traffic studies, community board input and Public Design Commission review, with final approval requiring the mayor’s sign-off and a go-or-no-go decision by the next administration.
- Some residents and community advocates have offered alternative alignments and warn the current concept could worsen congestion and extend construction disruptions.