Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced a significant improvement for cyclists using the Williamsburg Bridge on January 6, 2026, as the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) addressed a hazardous dip on the bridge’s exit into Manhattan. This roadway issue had posed risks for cyclists for years, prompting swift action from the new administration.
During a press event, Mamdani, flanked by DOT officials, oversaw the application of asphalt to create a smoother transition for cyclists exiting the bridge onto Delancey Street. This repair comes in response to feedback from numerous New Yorkers who expressed concerns about the sudden drop between two concrete barriers that forced cyclists to navigate a precarious path.
Immediate Action on Long-Term Plans
The recent fix is part of a larger $18 million initiative to redesign Delancey Street and its bike lanes, a project that was unveiled in 2023 but remains over four years from completion, according to DOT spokesperson Vin Barone. The quick repair was deemed necessary before the comprehensive redesign could begin this fall.
“I’ve seen many videos and tweets, and also heard from many New Yorkers, as well as experienced this myself,” Mamdani stated, highlighting the direct impact of constituent feedback. The mayor, an avid cyclist, emphasized the importance of addressing such “obstacles” that contribute to anxiety among cyclists using the bridge.
“They are tired of biking across this bridge with anxiety as to what will happen right at the end of it,” he added. “I am so thankful to the incredible men and women of New York City DOT for ensuring we are taking action on the issues that matter to New Yorkers.” This sentiment reflects a commitment to addressing both large-scale and smaller community concerns.
DOT Commissioner Mike Flynn noted that the Williamsburg Bridge has the highest bike ridership of any crossing in the city, with an average of 8,600 cyclists using it daily. “This is proof that government can deliver and just the beginning,” he said. Flynn reiterated the shared ambition of the mayor and DOT to implement both bold ideas and practical fixes to improve urban infrastructure.
A New Approach to Urban Cycling
Advocacy groups have applauded Mamdani’s proactive approach. Jon Orcutt, director of advocacy at Bike New York, expressed his approval of the mayor’s hands-on involvement in addressing cycling safety. “It’s great to have the mayor physically fixing issues in the bike network like that,” he remarked.
Orcutt also noted a shift in transportation policy under Mamdani’s leadership compared to his predecessor, former Mayor Eric Adams. He believes that a mayor who actively engages with the cycling community and understands its challenges can lead to more effective governance. “Someone who knows the city and experiences it from the saddle on a bike is invaluable,” Orcutt said.
The swift action taken by the DOT reflects Mayor Mamdani’s commitment to improving cycling conditions and ensuring safety for all users of the city’s roadways. As the administration looks ahead, the focus will remain on both immediate fixes and the broader vision for a more cyclist-friendly urban environment.
