If you find yourself wandering through Midtown Manhattan, make sure to keep an eye out for one of New York City’s unique urban quirks: 6 ½ Avenue. Nestled between West 51st and 57th Street and stretching between 6th and 7th Avenue, this is the city’s only pedestrian-exclusive avenue—a rare sight in the bustling grid of Manhattan.
A Well-Kept Secret
For years, the passageway connecting West 51st to 57th Street remained a local secret, known primarily to those living and working in the neighborhood. It offered a hidden pedestrian route through Midtown, sparing commuters from the congestion of 6th and 7th Avenue. However, this shortcut came with significant risks: jaywalking through traffic and dodging vehicles created serious safety concerns.
A Vision for Safety and Access
In 2011, a group called Friends of Privately Owned Public Spaces proposed a bold solution—a dedicated walkway linking open-access lobbies, atriums, and arcades across six blocks. The idea was simple yet transformative: enhance pedestrian safety by adding clear crosswalks and stop signs while relieving pressure on the major avenues.
According to the New York City Department of Transportation (NYCDOT), the project also aimed to draw more attention to hidden public spaces tucked within Midtown’s dense infrastructure. “Even lifelong New Yorkers aren’t aware that some of these places exist hidden within the buildings in the densest part of the city,” the department noted. “These enhancements will tap into these spaces and energize them with foot traffic.”
Controversy and Debate
Despite its pedestrian-friendly intentions, 6 ½ Avenue faced its share of criticism. The most contentious issue was the introduction of stop signs. Some critics, including a New York Times piece at the time, argued that stop signs would confuse drivers and pedestrians alike, worsening traffic congestion in an already crowded section of Manhattan.
A Pedestrian-First Milestone
In March 2012, the NYCDOT moved forward with the project, and by September 6, 2012, 6 ½ Avenue officially opened. The half-avenue now provides a safer, more efficient route for Midtown pedestrians while showcasing the city’s hidden architectural spaces.