Times Square Set for Redesign

Times Square's pedestrian plazas will be getting a sleek redesign.

The Times Square Alliance says it's intended to simplify and de-clutter — and create a unified identity for the heart of Times Square.

The $27 million plan is heading for final approval and is expected to be completed in 2014.

The Manhattan firm Snohetta, which is also involved in the National September 11 Memorial & Museum design, unveiled its preliminary plan at a community board meeting Monday night.

The plan is part of a redesign that began in 2009 when Mayor Bloomberg banned cars from parts of the square and pedestrian plazas were installed.

The new look calls for large slab-like benches to replace the current red metal chairs. Stone or concrete will cover the now blue-painted asphalt.