OP said the walk is about 1.5 kilometers - that is approximately 1 mile on sidewalks that are not perfectly straight. I know I would take a cab vs. lugging luggage for a mile in an area I am unfamiliar with - especially if the out of pocket cost would equate to about $6.
I'd probably spend more money repairing the wheels on my suitcase if they got messed up from dragging it along the uneven New York streets.