One Day Plazas are part of the outreach and planning process for a proposed pedestrian plaza. DOT works with community-based partners, who have applied to the NYC Plaza Program or who are considering applying, to create an event that showcases a potential pedestrian plaza. The events introduce the idea of a pedestrian plaza to the neighborhood, give DOT the opportunity to gather feedback on a proposal, and test both the site and the partner.
Hillel Place, Brooklyn
Hillel Place, Brooklyn
Benefits
- Producing a One Day plaza or a series of events educates potential partner organizations about the demands of programming a pedestrian plaza
- Allows DOT to gauge a partner’s capacity to manage a pedestrian plaza and determine what assistance, if any, may be needed in the future
- Provides an opportunity to survey the community, gathering feedback on a proposal from the people who would be using the plaza on a regular basis
- Demonstrates community benefits of proposed pedestrian plaza to neighbors and local businesses
Scope and Eligibility
- Sites and proposing partners must adhere to NYC Plaza Program Guidelines. See Pedestrian Plaza
- Community-based organizations that are considering applying to the NYC Plaza Program may work with DOT to host one-day plaza events prior to submitting an application
- In some cases, DOT may provide a limited amount of funding to subsidize costs associated with producing an event
- Vending is strictly prohibited
Process
- Partners interested in applying to the NYC Plaza Program should contact DOT directly about holding a One Day Plaza
- Interested organizations may email plazas@dot.nyc.gov with any questions regarding eligibility
- Partners must start planning their event at least three months in advance, though a longer planning timeline is highly recommended
- A permit is required from SAPO in order to hold a One Day Plaza; DOT will assist partner organizations in coordinating with SAPO, NYPD, and the Community Board for necessary approvals
- Applicant must provide commercial general liability insurance in the amount of $1 million per occurrence and $3 million aggregate limit naming the City of New York as an additional insured
- DOT will provide tables and chairs, banners, and barricade covers
- DOT reviews and must approve all programming, site plans, and advertising materials in coordination with the partner organization
Recommendations and Best Practices
- Partners should reach out to all local stakeholders, including but not limited to elected officials, Community Boards, and the local police precinct to offer the opportunity to help program the event
- Programming should reflect neighborhood assets and amenities
- Provide a wide range of programming options that are accessible to all ages, genders, and abilities
- Local businesses often see the event as an opportunity to give out free samples or to provide demonstrations relevant to their mission
Hillel Plaza public outreach: Hillel Place, Brooklyn