🚫⬅️And at all times on this part of 14th Street, left turns would be banned (except for Metropolitan Transportation Authority buses at certain locations).

⏰ These rules were supposed to start today and be in effect from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. for the next 18 months.

Why does the city want to make these changes?

The city says the plan would ease congestion and improve the struggling bus service in the area. Today, cars and buses crawl along 14th Street. Personally, I find it easier to walk there or avoid the area altogether.

This part of 14th Street also plays a crucial role in moving commuters around while the L train is disrupted for repairs.

Who opposes the plan? And why?

Some residents and block associations in Greenwich Village, Chelsea and the Flatiron district oppose the changes. They say it will divert car traffic and hurt the quality of life in their neighborhoods. At a hearing in State Supreme Court on Friday, Justice Eileen Rakower issued a temporary restraining order. A lawyer representing opponents of the plan said the judge faulted the city for insufficiently analyzing the impact it would have on residents.

Scott Gastel, a spokesman for the Transportation Department, said, “We are confident in both our traffic analysis, and that the court will recognize that we followed all correct procedures — allowing this critically important safety and mobility project to proceed.”

Why should you pay attention to 14th Street?

If the city is allowed to restrict cars on this street, it could potentially roll out similar plans elsewhere.