How's the time square pedestrian plaza going? (New York, York: closing, restaurant)

[Cyclops99]

I don't go out there often but I read that the DOT is supposed to present their findings to the mayor. How is traffic after the closing? Is it better for pedestrians, for the businesses there?

[NYCAnalyst]

It is disgusting right now, because of all of the slush.

[boan]

I wish they'd restore it back. NYC is a city, not a theme park, for cornssakes.

[Cyclops99]

or a "petting zoo" as David Letterman described it. I almost never drive in that area...is traffic worse? And does the seating bring more people/tourists to the area or do they just sit there and do nothing?

[cotb16]

Originally Posted by Cyclops99

or a "petting zoo" as David Letterman described it. I almost never drive in that area...is traffic worse? And does the seating bring more people/tourists to the area or do they just sit there and do nothing?

Driving has gotten much worse, on 7th, 8th, and 9th Avenues. Thanks to Broadway getting closed around Times Square and Herald Square, all of the southbound traffic is on 9th and 7th Avs.

[Pookie Jenkins]

beach chairs in times square.

just...no.

[Design7]

I think it has been a huge boon for tourists, and that's a good thing. It encourages people to take mass transit to see a movie or go to a restaurant in the Times Square area instead of driving. It makes it much easier to walk through the area, and even encourages it. I am a lifelong New Yorker who finds the Times Square much more people friendly as a result of it. It is well managed and provides a great hub for visitors. In this economy, we need all the visitors we can get.

Besides, even jaded New Yorkers like myself can still enjoy Times Square! So lighten up! Think like a tourist and enjoy your own city!