If you thought your commute was already a test of patience, brace yourself: Gridlock Alert Days are making their annual return and Midtown is about to turn into a giant parking lot.

The dreaded designation kicks in starting Monday, September 22, through Friday, September 26, thanks to the United Nations General Assembly. When world leaders gather to deliver speeches, hash out diplomacy, and create endless motorcades, the rest of us get stuck staring at the same traffic light for 20 minutes. Average speeds in Midtown during UNGA week dip to under four miles per hour—basically, slower than a Citi Bike.

And these five days are just the beginning. NYC DOT has flagged 20 Gridlock Alert Days between now and December 18, each promising clogged streets, closed intersections and honking symphonie

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