Mayor Mamdani Unveils Plan to Redesign Grand Army Plaza

Proposal aims to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety, streamline bus service at iconic Brooklyn landmark

Apr. 13, 2026 at 7:08pm

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A serene, cinematic painting depicting the Soldiers' and Sailors' Memorial Arch in Grand Army Plaza, with the plaza and surrounding streets bathed in warm, golden light and deep shadows, conveying a sense of nostalgic civic pride and the potential for the space to become a vibrant, welcoming public gathering place.The redesign of Grand Army Plaza aims to transform the iconic Brooklyn landmark into a welcoming, safe, and accessible public space for all.Crown Heights Today

Mayor Zohran Mamdani and the New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) have announced a proposal to redesign Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn, with the goal of creating a safer and more accessible public space. The project will connect the Soldiers' and Sailors' Memorial Arch to Prospect Park, streamline bus service, and add new pedestrian and cyclist amenities.

Why it matters

Grand Army Plaza is a historic and iconic landmark in Brooklyn, serving as the gateway to Prospect Park. However, the current design has long been criticized as dangerous and chaotic for pedestrians and cyclists. This redesign aims to address those issues and transform the plaza into a world-class public space that is welcoming and enjoyable for all New Yorkers.

The details

The proposed redesign will make it easier to travel around and through the plaza, including by streamlining bus service on one of the busiest routes in Brooklyn. NYC DOT will finalize the capital project's design through a series of public workshops beginning on April 23, and a community feedback survey will be available online. The project aims to breathe new life into the plaza, bringing critical improvements that will make it safer and more accessible.

  • The public workshops will be held on April 23, April 25, and April 29.
  • The community feedback survey will be available online through May 31.

The players

Mayor Zohran Mamdani

The mayor of New York City, who is leading the effort to redesign Grand Army Plaza.

Mike Flynn

The Commissioner of the New York City Department of Transportation, who is overseeing the project.

Julia Kerson

The Deputy Mayor for Operations, who is supporting the redesign efforts.

Tricia Shimamura

The Commissioner of the New York City Parks Department, who is collaborating on the project.

Antonio Reynoso

The Brooklyn Borough President, who is encouraging community participation in the workshops.

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What they’re saying

“Grand Army Plaza is the gateway to Brooklyn's backyard, Prospect Park — and it should welcome New Yorkers with street design that puts safety first.”

— Mayor Zohran Mamdani

“This restoration will breathe new life into one of Brooklyn's most historic spaces, bringing critical improvements that will make the plaza safer and more accessible for everyone.”

— Julia Kerson, Deputy Mayor for Operations

“Under Mayor Mamdani, we are focused on making our streets the envy of the world — and Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn presents a perfect opportunity to do so.”

— Mike Flynn, NYC DOT Commissioner

“The days of New Yorkers having to navigate a labyrinth of roads and intersections just to get to Prospect Park are finally numbered.”

— Antonio Reynoso, Brooklyn Borough President

“This is a major step forward for everyone who visits Brooklyn's backyard, and a restoration of Olmsted's original vision for his favorite park.”

— Ben Furnas, Transportation Alternatives Executive Director

What’s next

Once the capital project scope development is completed this year, NYC DOT will explore options for reconstruction that would include reconstructing the roadway to add a host of new pedestrian and cyclist amenities.

The takeaway

This redesign of Grand Army Plaza represents a significant investment in creating a safer, more accessible, and more enjoyable public space for all New Yorkers. By prioritizing pedestrian and cyclist safety, as well as improving public transit, the city is taking an important step towards realizing the original vision for this iconic Brooklyn landmark.