The Making of a Successful Public Realm

New Yorkers have fallen in love with their open streets and are advocating for better outdoor environments. A key element in prioritizing pedestrians is improving public transportation and mobility options as New Yorkers return to work.

This panel discussion will showcase three local business improvement districts, featuring TBID leaders, who successfully transformed their neighborhood’s public realm, alongside city agency leadership who provided support. All four of the featured civic leaders are challenging the status quo to elevate districts that prioritize the public realm, making room for pedestrians and leisure while successfully transporting goods and delivery services.

Speakers:
Ed Janoff, Deputy Director/Chief of Staff, Union Square Partnership
Jeffrey LeFrancios, Executive Director, Meatpacking District Management Association
Tim Laughlin, President, Lower East Side Partnership
Emily Weidenhoff, Director of Public Space, NYC Department of Transportation

Moderator:
Celine Armstrong, ASLA, Future Streets Chair, AIANY Planning and Urban Design Committee; Project Executive, Little Island