Shortly after taking office, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani is making significant changes to the city's transportation policy. He recently announced a series of projects aimed at reinstating and expanding exclusive lanes for buses and bicycles that had been diminished during the previous administration of Eric Adams. This decision marks a shift in the management of public space in the city, aligning with his campaign promise to improve bus speeds and ultimately make them free in one of the most congested cities in the country.

Mamdani's key announcement took place on a bus in the Bronx, where he confirmed the installation of 'offset bus lanes' on Fordham Road, which serves as the most utilized bus route in the district and one of the busiest in the entire city. The Bronx, notable for its high poverty levels and significant reliance on surface public transport, stands to benefit notably from these new transportation initiatives. By prioritizing bus and bicycle accessibility, the mayor aims to alleviate congestion and also address broader social issues tied to public transportation access.

Overall, this move seems to be a direct response to urban congestion challenges and a pledge to enhance mobility and accessibility for marginalized communities. By reconstructing the city's transportation network with a focus on sustainability and efficiency, Mamdani is seeking to make a long-lasting impact on both the environment and the well-being of residents who depend on reliable public transport.