New York City lawmakers are seeking to restrict pedicabs from operating near Broadway theaters under a new proposal aimed at reducing noise and easing congestion in Midtown Manhattan’s entertainment core.
The bill, introduced by Councilmembers Keith Powers, Erik Bottcher and Chris Banks, would ban pedicab pickups and drop-offs within 50 feet of theaters. It would also direct the Department of Transportation to install signs designating “pedicab restricted zones.”
The measure follows complaints from theatergoers and residents about loud music, sidewalk crowding and unclear pricing practices by pedicab drivers, many of whom operate without proper licenses.
“New Yorkers have made clear they want a more peaceful experience when attending shows,” Powers said. “We’re trying to support Broadway’s recovery and ensure people feel comfortable coming back.”
Pedicabs, which are often outfitted with speakers and ferry tourists around Midtown, have become increasingly common outside theaters, playing songs like “Empire State of Mind” while soliciting fares.
Kenneth Winter, co-founder and communications chair of the New York Pedicab Alliance, said the bill misses the mark.
“It just doesn’t make sense,” Winter told Gothamist. “It penalizes the few licensed operators who follow the rules, while doing nothing to stop the roughly 90 percent who are operating illegally.”
To operate legally in the city, pedicab drivers must hold a pedicab license in addition to a driver’s license, carry liability insurance and display a registration plate issued by the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection.
Enforcement, Winter said, is nearly nonexistent. “The city keeps issuing licenses without background checks and rarely prosecutes bad actors,” he said. “It’s a mess the city doesn’t seem interested in cleaning up.”
Supporters of the bill say stronger regulations are needed to restore order around Broadway venues.
Jason Laks, president of the Broadway League, called the growth of unregulated pedicabs a “significant challenge” for audiences, workers and police.
“The Broadway League fully supports efforts to establish stronger rules to ensure a safer, more accessible environment for everyone attending or working in our theaters,” Laks said.
Tom Harris, president of the Times Square Alliance, said the proposal addresses long-standing issues with unlicensed drivers leasing pedicabs to others, often without insurance or oversight.
“We’re encouraged to see attention from the City Council on this,” Harris said. “There are bad actors who mislead tourists and create safety hazards. This bill is a step toward accountability, even if it’s not a complete solution.”
In December, police seized dozens of pedicabs operating illegally in Midtown during a targeted enforcement effort.
The bill remains in committee. A hearing date has not yet been scheduled.
