New York City Launches Modular Public Restroom Pilot Program
New York City launches a one-year pilot program with Throne Labs to install 17 modular public restrooms across high-traffic areas, offering free, touchless, and accessible facilities.
New York City has announced a one-year pilot program in partnership with Throne Labs to install 17 modular public restrooms in high-traffic areas across the city. The initiative aims to address the chronic shortage of accessible public facilities, with each unit costing $235,000.
Access and Locations
The installation of the new units begins this week, with the first two units already unveiled. Public access will be streamlined through text messaging, QR code scanning, the Throne Bathroom Network app, or contactless tap cards distributed by local community partners.
Planned locations include areas near Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, Columbus Park in Brooklyn, and Cooper Square in the East Village. Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced the program, emphasizing its importance for urban infrastructure and public convenience.
Operation and Technology
Each restroom unit will be free to use and open daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The facilities are fully ADA-accessible and feature touchless technology throughout, including running water, climate control, and baby changing stations.
"This pilot is about ensuring that New Yorkers can rely on clean, safe, and accessible restrooms when they need them. We will learn from this pilot and build a public restroom network that meets the needs of every borough," stated Mayor Mamdani.
Users are limited to a 10-minute maximum stay to ensure high turnover. Voice warnings will sound at the 5-minute and 8-minute marks before the doors automatically open upon expiration of the allotted time.
