Ken Fisher discusses who truly owns the public realm of New York City in amNY. Despite the city's sidewalks being nearly able to circle the planet if laid end-to-end, they often feel overcrowded due to both density and the growing and overlapping demands placed on public spaces by residents, commuters, tourists, and businesses. While the public realm of the city used to be clearly divided among transportation, recreation, and commerce, evolving technology, policy shifts, and social trends have redefined how such space is being used. Pedestrian plazas, bike lanes, and outdoor dining have made their home in the city, along with ride-sharing vehicles, delivery services, and an increasing number of street vendors.

Mayor Eric Adams created the position of “Chief Public Realm Officer” to lead interagency collaboration following the competition for public space coming to a tipping point. “In New York City, the public realm is everyone’s living room. It’s where we eat, play, and gather,” said Ya-Ting Liu, Mayor Adams’ first appointee to the role. “Having beautiful public spaces accessible to all people is one of our greatest assets – it is what makes New York City so special.”

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