Times Square
The Times Square Reconstruction radically carves out 2.5 acres of pedestrian-only space at Manhattan’s core, transforming a notoriously congested intersection into a world-class civic space. Subtle design gestures within the public realm integrate crucial utility and infrastructure upgrades above and below grade, while doubling the amount pedestrian space in the Square. The design of the new plazas empowers people to move in a natural, comfortable way through Manhattan’s core. With a measurable positive impact on public safety, air quality, and economic output, the project stands as a model for how the carefully considered design of our urban landscapes can improve the health and well-being of its users, while providing an important space for democratic gathering. Conceived as a project whose success would be measured not only by its new aesthetic but also the long-term physical, psychological and economic benefits on its local and global community, the new plaza on Broadway has reinvented Times Square as a contemporary stage for the spectacle of public life, reviving its place at the heart of New York City.
Looking South from 47th Street and Broadway, before and after the redesign. Prior to street closure, the pinch point caused by the intersection of Broadway where it meets the North-South running 7th Avenue posed a hazard to pedestrians and car traffic. Narrow, overcrowded sidewalks forced pedestrians to spill into the roadways. The new permanent plaza on Broadway has transformed a congested vehicular district into a vibrant public space in the heart of New York City. Pedestrian injuries have decreased by 40%, vehicular accidents have decreased by 15%, and overall crime in the area decreased 20%.
New pedestrian plaza between 43rd and 44th Street, looking southwest. Snøhetta’s design of the subtle changes within the public realm such as the elimination of curbs, removal of site clutter and introduction of sculpted granite benches, have dramatically transformed the pedestrian experience within Times Square.
Since the project’s introduction of the permanent pedestrian plaza and the widening of the 7th Avenue sidewalks in the Bowtie area, the amount of pedestrian space in the Square has nearly doubled from 2000.
On average, 330,000 people move through Times Square every day. Understanding the magnitude of these crowds and patterns of movement was fundamental to creating a successful new life for one of the most iconic public spaces in the world. Snøhetta’s design creates uncluttered pedestrian zones and a cohesive surface that reinforces the Bowtie’s role as an outdoor stage.
View northwest down the reconstructed 7th Avenue sidewalk. The paving orientation reflects the historic alignment of Broadway through the new pedestrian plaza.
The new custom pavers are made of pre-cast concrete with two different finishes. Harkening back to Times Square’s history of vibrant marquees and lively entertainment, they are embedded with nickel-sized steel discs that harvest the neon glow from the signs above and playfully scatter it across the paving surface.
