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If you were considering driving through Midtown East next week, we suggest almost any other mode of transportation. Roller skates, perhaps. Maybe a pogo stick. Or, at the very least, walking very, very far out of your way.
The 81st United Nations General Assembly is bringing representatives from nearly 200 countries to Manhattan, along with motorcades, barricades, protests and plenty of traffic. High-level events are underway now through September 28, while the General Debate runs September 22 through 26. President Donald Trump is scheduled to address the assembly Tuesday, which could make that an especially difficult day for drivers.
The most substantial closures will surround the United Nations headquarters on the East Side. First Avenue will be closed from East 41st to East 48th Streets, while East 44th through East 47th Streets will be closed between First and Second Avenues each day. East 42nd Street will also be closed between First and Second Avenues while meetings are underway, generally until around 9pm.
The East 42nd Street exit from the FDR Drive will be blocked and additional portions of the highway may close temporarily as dignitaries travel around the city. Passenger vehicles and bicycles can still use the First Avenue tunnel to continue north through the area.
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Drivers should also expect rolling closures well beyond the immediate U.N. zone. The U.S. Secret Service is responsible for transporting up to 200 dignitaries and their families, meaning motorcades can halt traffic with little warning as they travel between Midtown hotels, consulates, airports and official events. Ferry service may also face disruptions.
The city has designated Monday, September 21, through Friday, September 25, as Gridlock Alert days, although congestion and intermittent closures may continue through the assembly’s conclusion. Street parking restrictions are already appearing around the East Side, so read every temporary sign before leaving your car.
Officials say there are no known specific or credible threats, but New Yorkers will also see an increased police presence on streets, waterways and in the air. Demonstrations are also expected throughout Midtown.
The official advice is reassuringly simple: take public transportation whenever possible. If driving is unavoidable, leave extra time, check traffic conditions before departing and steer clear of the East 40s near First Avenue. Next week is an excellent time to remember that the subway does not have to pull over for a presidential motorcade.