Sidewalk Modifications That Improved Safety for Seniors

Sidewalks are essential to urban life, offering a safe, accessible path for people of all ages and abilities. In New York City, the Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) has prioritized improving pedestrian infrastructure to support its growing senior population.

According to the NYC DOT Safe Streets for Seniors Report, adults aged 65 and over make up just 12% of the city’s population but accounted for 39% of pedestrian fatalities between 2002 and 2006. With the senior population expected to nearly double by 2035, the city has launched targeted street and sidewalk enhancements to better accommodate seniors' unique mobility needs and reduce injuries.

Below are some of the most impactful modifications that are made to ensure safer sidewalks for older New Yorkers.

Pedestrian Safety Islands

Pedestrian safety islands are crucial for enhancing pedestrian safety, particularly for seniors, by providing a safe space to pause when crossing wide or busy streets. In Queens, New York City, significant efforts have been made to implement these safety features along Northern Boulevard:

2015: Installation of 9 pedestrian safety islands between 62nd Street and 102nd Street. This initiative led to a 14% reduction in total injuries and a 51% decrease in pedestrian injuries at targeted locations.

2017: Addition of five pedestrian safety islands between 105th Street and 114th Street.

2018: Construction of 4 pedestrian safety islands between 98th Street and 101st Street.

These installations have proven particularly effective in areas with heavy foot traffic and high vehicle volumes, significantly enhancing pedestrian safety along Northern Boulevard.

Curb Extensions (Bulb-Outs)

Curb extensions, also known as bulb-outs, are designed to improve pedestrian safety by extending the sidewalk into the parking lane, thereby reducing crossing distances and enhancing visibility between pedestrians and drivers. In 2016, the New York City Department of Transportation implemented such modifications on Sheepshead Bay Road in Brooklyn.

Prior to these changes, the area experienced a notable number of pedestrian injuries due to factors such as complex traffic patterns and limited pedestrian visibility. Following the installation of curb extensions, pedestrian injuries decreased by 21%, demonstrating the effectiveness of these measures in enhancing pedestrian safety.

Raised Crosswalks

Raised crosswalks function like speed bumps for vehicles while elevating pedestrians to be more visible. In 2022, the NYC DOT announced plans to install raised crosswalks in 1,000 intersections within the year, focusing on the high pedestrian traffic areas such as those near senior centers, parks, and schools.

The following areas are included in the initial installation plan:

Queens: Jamaica Avenue and 170th Street

Brooklyn: Elm Avenue and Coney Island Avenue

Bronx: E.158th Street and Cauldwell Avenue

Staten Island: Martha Street and Howard Avenue

These installations are part of the city’s broader initiative to redesign intersections for improved senior pedestrian safety. The city completed safety enhancements at 1400 intersections, exceeding their initial goal of 1000.

A case study highlights that following the raised crosswalk installations at one of the roundabout entrances, there was a decrease in vehicle approach speeds and an approximately 50%–90% increase in safe pedestrian crossing.

ADA-Compliant Pedestrian Ramps

Accessibility is a major concern for seniors and individuals with disabilities. NYC DOT has initiated the Pedestrian Ramp Program aimed at upgrading pedestrian ramps to meet ADA standards. As of October 31, 2019, the DOT completed a survey of approximately 217,678 pedestrian ramps across all five boroughs.

The upgraded ramps incorporate several design enhancements, including red (or white in special districts) detectable warning surfaces to assist senior individuals with visual impairments and improved angles and smoother surfaces, making it easier for older New Yorkers to navigate sidewalks and street crossings.

Leading Pedestrian Intervals (LPIs)

LPIs give pedestrians a head start at intersections before vehicles get a green light. This change is particularly helpful for seniors who need a few extra seconds to cross safely. By the end of 2023, NYC DOT aimed to install LPIs at all feasible intersections along Priority Corridors in designated Senior Pedestrian Zones.

The city had installed LPIs specifically on Hempstead Avenue between Jamaica Avenue and 225th Street. The implementation of LPIs and other safety measures, such as adding curb extensions, upgrading existing medians, and constructing pedestrian refuge islands, reflects the city’s dedication to creating a safer NYC for senior residents.

Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APIs)

Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS) have been installed at key intersections in New York City to assist visually impaired pedestrians. The APS provide audible crossing cues, such as a persistent chirping sound to locate signal buttons and verbal instruction like “Wait” until it’s safe to cross, significantly improving safety for

A notable example is the intersection of 7th Avenue and West 23rd Street in Manhattan, where the installation of APS led to a 68% reduction in pedestrian injuries, highlighting their effectiveness in enhancing street safety exclusively for seniors.

Prior to these enhancements, between 2005 and 2009, the intersection experienced 21 pedestrian injuries and one fatality, placing it among the top 3% of safety concerns for Manhattan intersections.

Daylighting Intersections

Daylighting intersections in New York City involves removing visual obstructions, such as parked vehicles, near intersections to enhance safety for pedestrians and drivers. As of August 2024, the New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) had improved visibility at 314 locations, aiming to reach 1,000 intersections by the end of the year.

The daylighted locations include:

Bronx: 33 locations
Brooklyn: 45 locations
Manhattan: 36 locations
Queens: 153 locations
Staten Island: 46 locations

Prior to these modifications, intersections in New York City posed significant safety risks. According to a report, intersections were responsible for 59% of pedestrian fatalities and 77% of pedestrian injuries, highlighting the urgent need for effective safety measures in these high-risk areas.

Fifth Avenue Transformation Proposal

In October 2024, city officials unveiled a comprehensive plan, “Future of Fifth” to redesign Fifth Avenue between Bryant Park (42nd Street) and Central Park (59th Street). The proposal includes expanding sidewalk space by 46%, reducing traffic lanes from five to three, and adding more seating and greenery along the corridor.

While still in the planning stage, with schematic designs expected to be completed by the middle of 2025, this initiative reflects a broader vision for making NYC’s busiest streets safer and more accessible for older residents.

Why These Modifications Matter

According to recent data from NYC DOT, seniors account for nearly 50% of pedestrian fatalities despite being only 15% of the city’s population. These sidewalk and street modifications are not only essential, but also they’re lifesaving. By making small but strategic changes, NYC is creating a safer, more inclusive city for older residents.

As we move further into 2026, expect even more infrastructure improvements aimed at supporting our senior citizens. Ensuring safer sidewalks isn’t just about transportation; it’s about dignity, accessibility, and community.

Conclusion

NYC's sidewalk and street modifications are vital for enhancing safety and accessibility for seniors. With measures like safety islands, curb extensions, raised crosswalks, and ADA-compliant ramps, the city reduces injury risks while fostering inclusivity. These efforts reflect NYC's commitment to improving the quality of life for older residents, ensuring they can navigate their neighborhoods safely and independently. As infrastructure improvements continue, NYC is building a future of safer, more welcoming spaces for seniors.

Whether it’s minor cracks, trip hazards, or full sidewalk replacements, our expert team handles it all with precision and care. Don’t wait until small issues turn into costly violations. Schedule your service today and keep your property safe, compliant, and welcoming for everyone.