Gridlock Looms In Midtown As UN General Assembly Reaches Climax

MIDTOWN, NY – Ah, September. One of the most beautiful months in New York City, marred only by the hellacious gridlock that predictably grips Midtown Manhattan during the annual United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

The height of UNGA, or “General Debate,” begins on Sept. 24 and concludes on Sept. 30. It features high-level meetings that provide an opportunity for heads of state – including President Joe Biden – and other world leaders to engage one another on matters of critical import, from security and trade, to development and climate change.

It’s also an opportunity for New Yorkers, who already experience the world's worst traffic, to take advantage of public transit, walk, bike, or work from home, as Midtown traffic speeds dip to less than four miles per hour during UNGA, the slowest of the year, according to the Department of Transportation (DOT).

Midtown traffic normally averages between four and six miles per hour.

“We strongly encourage New Yorkers and those in the region to travel by transit every day of the year – but it’s especially important during Gridlock Alert days,” said NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “The UN General Assembly is a great event each year the city is proud to host, but New Yorkers should do their part in minimizing congestion and seeking alternative modes of transportation.”

Drivers should prepare for street closures and delays across Manhattan, and especially in Midtown East, near the United Nations, which is located at 405 East 45th Street.

“Avoid Midtown, but if you have to go there, take transit,” a DOT spokesperson told Patch.

Including September's assembly, DOT has identified twenty “Gridlock Alert Days” between UNGA and the end of 2024.

After an October respite, gridlock days return during Thanksgiving and the holiday season, according to DOT. More information is available here.