The elements in this section represent vital components of the urban transportation network that present unique challenges and require specialized design and operational considerations.
Bridges
DOT maintains close to 800 bridges throughout the City, including the iconic East River bridges, Harlem River bridges, as well as many others that look and function like regular streets. Structural design of bridges in NYC must reference DOT, NYSDOT, and Federal standards. The operational cross section should follow the geometric design standards and processes established in this Manual.
Many of the geometric design treatments described in this chapter can be applied on bridges found throughout the City. However, designers must consider additional factors such as:
- Impact of the proposed treatment on the bridge structure
- Drainage
- ADA requirements (maximum desirable running grade is 4.5% for walking and cycling facilities)
- Placement of street infrastructure such as light poles, bus shelters, wayfinding, and other elements; consider each element’s foundation and/or attachment details in context of the bridge design
- Bridges require railing and/or fencing in many cases to protect pedestrians or cyclists.
- Bridge Fencing: Required where bridges are over travel ways or navigable water; fencing must be 8-feet tall, with an 18-inch return, and 1-inch by 1-inch maximum openings.
In addition to geometric design treatments proposed for existing roadway bridges, DOT also maintains many pedestrian bridges throughout the City. Pedestrian bridges provide critical links to areas that may otherwise be cut off from regular access. Pedestrian bridges must follow all DOT and NYSDOT bridge standards. New pedestrian bridges must also be fully ADA compliant. Review the Bridge Manual.
Step Streets
Step streets present unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to design. Generally found in northern Manhattan, the Bronx, and parts of Queens and Brooklyn with more significant topography, step streets provide direct pedestrian connections within the right-of-way.
The design of all new step streets must take into consideration ADA requirements. If an ADA-compliant ramp is feasible, it must be designed accordingly and built as part of the reconstruction project. Other important considerations include:
- Add bike channels to allow for cyclists to easily traverse the step street
- Utilize durable and maintainable materials for stair landings, treads, walls, copings, etc. DOT often utilizes granite for steps and concrete for landings and other features
- Coordinate closely with DEP to ensure proper drainage is provided
- Utilize ADA and code compliant handrails and fencing where appropriate
- Carefully consider slope protection and erosion control as part of the design; if plantings cannot be used, consider grouted-in-place granite/cobblestones or a similar treatment
- Comply with USWR requirements
- Incorporate trees and other understory plantings where feasible and maintenance can be provided; review the Landscape Chapter for more guidance
- Consider incorporating art; review Activations for more information on temporary and permanent art process requirements
- Lighting is critical and must follow DOT standards; review the Lighting Chapter for more information. In many cases, pedestrian lighting is appropriate for step streets
Street Ends
There are various types of street ends located throughout NYC, the most prevalent of which occur along the various bodies of water within the City. Areas like Coney Island, Far Rockaway, or along the Newtown Creek and Gowanus Canal. These street ends present unique challenges and opportunities.
- Typically, street ends are low volume streets that favor the slow movement of vehicles
- Emergency access must be maintained, and enough room must be provided for the appropriate FDNY vehicles to turn around at the end of the street
- Consideration must be given to ensure appropriate and legal access is maintained to adjacent private properties
- Careful consideration must be given to protection at the end of the street to prevent wayward vehicles from traveling beyond the end. Design treatments like curbs, bollards, barriers, planted areas, and other features could be utilized depending on the context and maintenance requirements
- Consider Shared Street designs for street ends, where appropriate. Review Curb Cuts for design guidance on how to treat the entrance of a street end
- Review the Landscape Chapter for guidance on planting opportunities in street ends
- Provide ADA-compliant access to areas located beyond the street end such as a beach or boardwalk, if applicable
- In the context of major flood resiliency efforts, consider the grade of the street and whether changes can be made to account for coastal flooding and protect upland areas
Private Streets
While the majority of streets in NYC are owned and maintained by DOT, there are certain streets that remain under private ownership. These streets should be designed to the same standards as City streets and should utilize the various treatments described in this chapter to foster safe and efficient designs.
Private streets must also fully comply with ADA requirements, especially with regard to Pedestrian Ramps and Pedestrian Access Routes. New or reconstructed private streets must also comply with the Unified Stormwater Rule.