NEW YORK — New York City has launched a new pilot program to address the long-standing shortage of clean, accessible public restrooms across the city. Under the initiative, 17 high-tech modular public toilets will be installed across all five boroughs as part of a $4 million, one-year pilot program launched by Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani. Speaking at a news conference Wednesday, Mayor Mamdani said access to public restrooms is an important part of maintaining clean streets and ensuring dignity for New Yorkers.
“Many New Yorkers and working people—especially delivery workers who spend up to 12 hours on the streets and mothers traveling with children—struggle to find a restroom when they urgently need one,” Mamdani said. “This public health infrastructure will play an important role in keeping our streets clean and ensuring dignity for all New Yorkers.”
Self-contained toilets require no underground utility connections
The modular restroom units are being developed by technology company Throne Labs. The units are fully self-contained, meaning they do not require connections to underground water or sewer lines. That design allows the toilets to be installed relatively quickly in busy intersections, plazas and other high-traffic locations. The units can also be relocated when necessary.
Free access and modern amenities
The public toilets will be free to use and available daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Each unit is equipped with a range of modern features, including a touchless-flush toilet, running-water sink, automated heating and air conditioning, and a baby-changing station. The units are also designed to be ADA-compliant, making them accessible to people with disabilities.
Smartphone, QR code and text-message access
Users will be able to unlock the restrooms through a smartphone app, QR code or text message. For people without smartphones, including unhoused New Yorkers, special tap cards will be distributed through local community organizations.
Ten-minute limit raises eyebrows
One of the program’s most notable features is a strict 10-minute usage limit. Users will receive audio warnings after five and eight minutes inside the restroom. Once the 10-minute limit is reached, flashing lights will activate and the door will automatically unlock. Jessica Heinzelman, chief operating officer of Throne Labs, said the system is designed to prevent individuals from occupying the facilities for extended periods.
“Someone shouldn’t be able to occupy the restroom for a long time,” Heinzelman said, noting that the company estimates a typical restroom visit takes about three and a half minutes.
Initial locations across Manhattan, Brooklyn and the Bronx
The first units are being installed in high-density locations, including Cooper Square in Manhattan, Columbus Park in Brooklyn and the area around Yankee Stadium in the Bronx. City officials say the one-year pilot will help determine how effectively the modular restroom system serves residents and visitors. If the pilot proves successful, the city could consider expanding the public restroom network to additional locations across New York City.
