New York City has launched its first microhubs — small sites where delivery trucks unload packages onto cargo bikes and hand carts for the final stretch. The goal is to reduce traffic, double parking, and pollution from delivery trucks.
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The first three microhubs opened on the Upper West Side at Amsterdam Avenue and West 73rd Street, Amsterdam and West 85th Street, and Broadway and West 77th Street. Amazon, UPS, and Net Zero Logistics are among the first companies to use the new spaces. Each location was picked as part of NYC DOT’s Smart Curbs program.
“New Yorkers are receiving more deliveries than ever before, and this has resulted in a spike in delivery trucks that pollute our air and create challenges on our streets,” said NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “These microhubs will cut down on the number of truck trips on our busy city streets and also cut down on double parking and blocking sidewalks.”
One in five New Yorkers now gets packages four or more days a week. With online shopping still booming, the number of truck deliveries across the city is expected to grow by 70% over the next 20 years. City officials say the new microhubs are a small but important step in preparing for that growth more cleanly and safely.
“Over the past few years, we’ve seen a significant shift in how people shop, leading to a massive increase in home delivery that has put a strain on our streets,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Jeffrey Roth. “We’re excited about the potential these new microhubs have to better organize deliveries, while reducing double parking and easing local traffic.”
Amazon, UPS, and Net Zero Logistics each said they were excited to be part of the new program.
“Amazon is excited to join this innovative NYC DOT microhub pilot program,” said Kawaljit Singh, Director of Last Mile Transportation at Amazon. “We believe this is an important step towards optimizing urban delivery for our customers, and we are eager to collaborate and contribute to its success.”
“Joining forces with NYC DOT on this groundbreaking initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to provide sustainable and efficient delivery solutions,” said Mark Chiusano, CEO at Net Zero Logistics. “We are excited to contribute to a cleaner, greener New York City while helping to alleviate traffic congestion.”
The DOT plans to open up to 36 microhub locations citywide over the next three years, including spots on city-owned properties. The city will track how the hubs affect traffic and deliveries during the pilot.
City leaders say this is just one part of a larger plan to rethink deliveries and improve air quality. Other steps include allowing more pedal-assist cargo bikes, expanding off-hour deliveries, opening more loading zones, and even using the city’s waterways for deliveries through a pilot called Blue Highways.
“Microhubs offer a better way forward,” said Congressman Jerry Nadler. “These small urban distribution centers allow deliveries to be consolidated and completed via cargo bikes and small electric vehicles rather than large trucks.”
