Janette Sadik-Khan

Janette Sadik-Khan is recognized as a leading authority in transportation policy and urban planning. She is a principal at Bloomberg Associates, and named on Forbes 50 Over 50 List.

As the former commissioner of the New York City Department of Transportation under Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Sadik-Khan directed a comprehensive revitalization of the city’s streets. Overseeing nearly 5,000 employees and approximately 6,300 miles of streets across the five boroughs, she implemented projects that reshaped the urban landscape. Her tenure included the addition of nearly 400 miles of bike lanes, the introduction of North America’s first parking-protected bike paths, the creation of more than 60 pedestrian plazas, and the pedestrianization of Times Square. Sadik-Khan also launched seven rapid bus routes in partnership with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority and introduced Citi Bike, the nation’s largest bike-share program. Her work has been noted by major publications for its impact on urban mobility and public space.

Sadik-Khan advocated for rapid, cost-effective interventions such as painting asphalt to create plazas and bus lanes, using data to evaluate results before making permanent changes. This approach to urban design and transportation innovation has influenced cities worldwide. Despite opposition and legal challenges, her programs received broad public support and were upheld in court. She documented her experiences in the book, "Streetfight: Handbook for an Urban Revolution," co-authored with Seth Solomonow, which is widely referenced by urban planners and policymakers.

Following her tenure in city government, Sadik-Khan became a founding principal of Bloomberg Associates, advising mayors in cities such as Los Angeles, Mexico City, Rio de Janeiro, and Athens on sustainable transportation and urban development. As chair of the National Association of City Transportation Officials, she led the creation of the "Global Street Design Guide," adopted by more than 54 cities and organizations. Her TED Talk, "New York's Streets? Not So Mean Any More," has reached a global audience, contributing to ongoing discussions about urban innovation. Sadik-Khan also serves on the boards of the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy and the Regional Plan Association, continuing her work in advancing urban policy and sustainable city planning.