Since arriving in 2008, Ed Janoff’s primary responsibility at NYC DOT has been to oversee management and operation of the agency’s  growing inventory of public plazas – currently numbering 26 sites – primarily through public-private partnership agreements with local nonprofit organizations. He has also played a significant role in developing a range of other public space initiatives including Curbside Seating Platforms, CityBench, Weekend Walks, Green Light for Midtown (Times Square), and Summer Streets. Possessing a B.A. in Urban Design and Architecture Studies from NYU, he was co-author of DOT’s Street Design Manual, focusing on paving materials and street furniture. Prior to joining DOT, Ed worked as Streetscape Maintenance Manager for the 34th Street Partnership and Bryant Park Corporation where he received 5 years of training in public space design and management from expert and William H. Whyte disciple Dan Biederman.