As part of a Department of Transportation plan to make the city more livable, cars will be banned from stretches of Broadway at Times Square and at Herald Square, near the Macy's flagship department store.

The city says the move will reduce pollution and pedestrian accidents and help traffic flow more smoothly.

The Department of Transportation says barriers will be fully in place after 8 pm on Sunday. Activities celebrating the new car-free era are planned for Monday.

Transportation Commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan says her department will monitor the area closely during the initial adjustment period. -- AP