Summary & Quick Facts
- The term gridlock refers to traffic congestion that blocks a city’s network of intersections and roads.
- The amount of traffic and congestion on the roads increases to unusually high levels on certain days of the year.
- DOT designates the busiest traffic days of the year as Gridlock Alert Days.
- Drivers will find increased traffic and congestion on city streets towards the end of the year.
- There will be 16 Gridlock Alert Days in 2018.
- The city suggests drivers leave the cars at home and take alternative methods of transportation on these days.
Traffic In NYC Is Terrible…
New York City’s traffic is among the worst in the world. Unfortunately, it’s not getting better anytime soon. For many drivers, there’s nothing worse than wasting time sitting in traffic. While it may be impossible to always avoid congestion all together, there are some ways motorists in New York City can make sure they’re informed before getting on the road. Here, the city has stepped up to the plate to inform drivers about the New York’s worst traffic days. These days are known as gridlock alert days and it may be a great idea for drivers to make note of when they are.
Gridlock Alert Days
Coined in New York City, the term gridlock refers to traffic congestion that blocks a city’s network of intersections and roads. The term also describes overwhelming traffic volume in general. On some days during the year, the amount of traffic and congestion on the roads increases to unusually high levels. This is often attributed to special events, street closures, and holidays.
Here, the Department of Transportation designates the busiest traffic days of the year as Gridlock Alert Days. Whether traveling for work, errands or recreation, the city stresses drivers to consider alternative transportation methods. On these special gridlock alert days, you may be better off walking, biking or taking public transportation whenever possible.
What Does The Data Say About Gridlock Alert Days?
The DOT’s Traffic Operations Division conducted analysis using GPS data from medallion taxis and NYCT buses in the Manhattan Central Business District. The analysis revealed that increased traffic volume and street closures on the most significant traffic days have a profound effect on the movement of vehicles in Midtown. Drivers can expect Midtown travel times up to three times longer than what is typical for that day of the week.
The city also specifically designates select days in November and December as Gridlock Alert Days, as traffic volumes increase with holiday shopping and travel, as well as special event street closures. Drivers can expect that travel through Midtown will take twice as long as a typical day of the week.
Gridlock Alert Dates
Below are all the dates in the remaining calendar year that drivers can expect significant traffic and delays. On these specific dates, makes sure to either give yourself additional time to travel or take an alternative means of transport.
Dates To Remember
Monday, September 24, 2018
Tuesday, September 25, 2018
Wednesday, September 26, 2018
Thursday, September 27, 2018
Friday, September 28, 2018
Monday, October 1, 2018
Friday, November 16, 2018
Wednesday, November 21, 2018
Wednesday, November 28, 2018
Friday, December 7, 2018
Wednesday, December 12, 2018
Thursday, December 13, 2018
Friday, December 14, 2018
Wednesday, December 19, 2018
Thursday, December 20, 2018
Friday, December 21, 2018