Samuel I Schwartz

About the Author

Samuel I. Schwartz, widely known as Gridlock Sam from his tenure as New York City's traffic commissioner, is a pioneering urban planner and transportation expert with over four decades of experience shaping the infrastructure of one of the world's busiest metropolises. A civil engineer by training, Schwartz has long advocated for sustainable, people-centered mobility solutions that prioritize public transit, cycling, and walkability over car dependency. His insightful writings explore the transformative potential of technology and urban design in reimagining how we move through cities, offering practical visions for a less congested, more equitable future. Through his books, lectures, and media appearances, Schwartz continues to influence policy and public discourse on the evolving role of transportation in modern society.