New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced a $4 million pilot program to install modular public restrooms in the city, aiming to expand access for residents in underserved areas. The initiative will deploy 20 to 30 self-cleaning, prefabricated restroom units across parks, sidewalks, and other high-traffic zones where access to public facilities is limited.

Currently, New York City maintains roughly one public restroom for every 8,500 residents, creating challenges for seniors, parents, delivery workers, and other residents who rely on convenient facilities. The modular units are designed to bypass costly infrastructure needs, with each estimated to cost over $1 million, enabling the city to provide dignified and hygienic access without extensive construction projects.

The pilot program emphasizes both efficiency and accessibility. Prefabricated, self-cleaning units are intended to reduce maintenance burdens while ensuring safety and usability for diverse populations. City officials note that the initiative will also inform long-term planning for additional units and potential expansion across other neighborhoods.

Mayor Mamdani framed the program as part of a broader effort to improve urban infrastructure and address quality-of-life concerns in the city. By targeting areas where public facilities are scarce, the administration aims to reduce disparities in access and support residents’ daily needs, particularly for vulnerable and highly mobile populations.