When designing spaces within the public right-of-way to accommodate activations, emergency access and the safety of all users must be top of mind. In general, all roadway and plaza spaces must provide for a 15 feet minimum emergency access lane to accommodate FDNY and other first responders. FDNY may consider alternative clearances for emergency access on a case-by-case basis. Designers should conduct a swept-path analysis to show how the appropriate design vehicle, which in most cases will be the largest fire truck that might service a location, will traverse the site. Review Swept Path Analysis for more guidance. In addition, consider access to all major entrances and exits from buildings as well as subway or other transit stations.
Review Sizing of Common Activation Elements for dimensions of typical event features and ensure spatial layouts work in context of both the site and necessary emergency access. It may also be beneficial to conduct a swept path analysis for other vehicles that may be used in setup or breakdown operations to ensure an appropriate level of access is provided. Consider access for maintenance operations as well to ensure all work related to an activation can be carried out safely for all users of the site.
Where roadways or other spaces are shut on a temporary basis to accommodate an activation and depending on the scale or type of the activation, a management and staffing plan should be provided that details how barricades or any other traffic control devices will be managed and monitored, including the moving of barricades in the event of an emergency. Review Staffing, Maintenance, and Storage
Special consideration should be paid during design to the type of barriers or site access controls and how they work in context of potential activations. Permanent security measures offer significant protection for users of the space, but also present long-term maintenance challenges and can complicate emergency access or access for setup/breakdown of an activation. Lighter touch controls, like a Movable Barricade, offer less protection and may require staffing, but are much simpler to deploy and maintain. It is critical to consider accessibility in context of the type of barricade or barrier as well; review Accessibility for more information.