Photo: joiseyshowaa, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This year will bring 19 Gridlock Alert days, starting Monday, when the United Nations General Assembly will be in session and Midtown traffic speeds are the slowest of the year.

Drivers are strongly encouraged to use alternate modes, including walking, mass transit and cycling

The New York City Department of Transportation today released its list of 2022 Gridlock Alert Days, which will include the week of United Nations General Assembly (September 19th to September 23rd). Drivers should expect extensive street closures and delays across Manhattan for the duration of next week, when DOT strongly recommends that drivers use alternative travel modes.

“As the end of the year approaches, we know the exact days when we expect our streets will see the most traffic and unwelcome congestion,” said DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “New York is proud to host the United Nations and welcome delegations from so many nations, and during next week’s UN General Assembly, we are letting New Yorkers know the key to avoiding the congestion next week is to try walking, mass transit, or riding a bicycle to get to their destination.”

“New York has been home to the United Nations for more than 75 years and we are host to the largest diplomatic community in the world,” said Edward Mermelstein, commissioner of the Mayor’s Office for International Affairs. “The United Nations General Assembly is one of the symbols of New York City being back after the challenges of COVID-19. We welcome the significant contributions the United Nations makes to the fabric of our city throughout the year, especially in September. We acknowledge the concerns of New Yorkers whose routines are affected by the opening of the United Nations General Assembly High-Level Week. This initiative to provide advance notification to drivers will help ensure a safe and productive experience for everyone, while also supporting New York City small businesses.”

Gridlock Alert Days: For 2022, DOT has identified 19 Gridlock Alert Days through the end of the year – days when traffic is expected to be at its slowest and most congested. Department of Transportation (DOT) traffic data show that average motor vehicle speeds in the Midtown Central Business District during UN General Assembly week are their slowest of the year: less than five miles per hour, whereas Midtown traffic normally averages between six and seven miles per hour. Variable Message System (VMS) boards around New York City have this week warned drivers of next week’s expected delays.

Bicycle Access: DOT also announced that the protected bicycle lanes in East Midtown along First and Second Avenues, which have over 7,000 daily riders, would remain open and operational during UNGA week. Cyclists along First Avenue will use the First Avenue Tunnel between East 40th and East 49th Streets and remain in effect 24 hours a day next week. Along Second Avenue, a temporary bike lane will be in effect between East 47th and East 42nd Streets each day until 9pm. Cyclists on both avenues will be subject to security checkpoints and occasional, unannounced traffic freezes.

This year’s Gridlock Alert Days are:

  • Monday, September 19, 2022
  • Tuesday, September 20, 2022
  • Wednesday, September 21, 2022
  • Thursday, September 22, 2022
  • Friday, September 23, 2022
  • Wednesday, November 16, 2022
  • Thursday, November 17, 2022
  • Tuesday, November 22, 2022
  • Wednesday, November 23, 2022
  • Wednesday, November 30, 2022
  • Thursday, December 1, 2022
  • Friday, December 2, 2022
  • Tuesday, December 6, 2022
  • Wednesday, December 7, 2022
  • Thursday, December 8, 2022
  • Friday, December 9, 2022
  • Tuesday, December 13, 2022
  • Wednesday, December 14, 2022
  • Thursday, December 15, 2022

For more information, visit nyc.gov/gridlockalert