DTBK: Reimagining Streets for People

The vision of a more complete, connected downtown seeks to redress the historic disinvestment in the public realm from which Downtown Brooklyn’s thoroughfares and open spaces have long suffered. In advancing the goals of the Public Realm Action Plan (2021), Downtown Brooklyn can unlock its full potential as an environmentally, economically, and socially sustainable 24/7 neighborhood anchored by urban amenities, activated streetscapes, and beautiful public spaces – propelling economic development and improving safety and quality of life for thousands.

Recent public investments in the area include NYC DOT upgrades to Atlantic Avenue and Flatbush Avenue to increase pedestrian safety, an expanded Shared Streets Network, and new bike lanes to downtown’s core streets. NYCT/MTA has invested in reconfigurations of bus routes along key downtown corridors to improve service and safety.

NYC Parks has invested $8 million in a Fulton Mall revitalization project that will increase sustainability and improve the pedestrian experience along Brooklyn’s most popular shopping destination. DBP has also partnered with private developers to implement signature elements of its Public Realm Action Plan at adjacent sidewalks.

The Plan was developed in close collaboration with NYC DOT, NYC Parks, and a 50+ member steering committee including local resident associations, cultural organizations, educational institutions, businesses, property owners, and houses of worship. DBP thanks the members of our steering committee below for their input during the two-year process of creating the Downtown Brooklyn Public Realm Plan.