The Department of Transportation in New York City is reverting to an earlier version of a street redesign for McGuinness Boulevard in Brooklyn, which includes a one-lane reduction in traffic in either direction and a protected bike lane. This change follows community feedback and pressure campaigns. The decision has sparked speculation among transportation advocates about the agency’s independence amid ongoing investigations. The move is seen as a positive step towards making the streets safer for all travelers.
McGuinness Boulevard in Brooklyn is undergoing a significant redesign by the city’s Department of Transportation. This initiative includes a reduction in traffic lanes in each direction and the addition of a protected bike lane, mirroring an earlier proposal that was met with praise from safe streets advocates. The decision to revert to this initial plan follows community and elected officials’ feedback, highlighting the city’s commitment to enhancing street safety for all road users.
Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi emphasized the administration’s dedication to creating safer streets for New Yorkers, whether they travel by car, bike, or on foot. The DOT’s confirmation of the change signals a positive step towards improving road safety in the area. The timing of this announcement, shortly after a federal investigation involving the mayor’s chief advisor, Ingrid Lewis-Martin, has sparked speculation among transportation advocates about the agency’s autonomy in decision-making.
The redesign of McGuinness Boulevard has been a long-standing issue, with community advocates advocating for changes to improve safety on the road, where several fatal accidents have occurred. The recent decision to implement a protected bike lane and reduce traffic lanes aligns with the original plan proposed last May. Despite previous setbacks and pressure from various stakeholders, the DOT’s commitment to prioritizing street safety is evident in this revised design.
Transportation advocates are hopeful that the success of the McGuinness Boulevard project may pave the way for other stalled street upgrades, such as the proposed Ashland Place bike lane connecting boroughs’ bike networks, to move forward. The community’s persistence and engagement in advocating for safer streets have played a crucial role in shaping these redesign efforts.
The DOT’s decision to revert to the initial plan for McGuinness Boulevard has been met with mixed reactions from different stakeholders. While some express disappointment, others, including elected officials like Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso and Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, commend the move as a positive step towards enhancing safety in the area. The collaborative efforts of community advocates, elected leaders, and city agencies have been instrumental in driving this project forward.
Overall, the redesign of McGuinness Boulevard underscores the city’s commitment to creating safer and more accessible streets for all residents. By prioritizing the needs of pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists alike, the DOT’s efforts to improve road safety are a significant step towards building a more sustainable and inclusive urban environment.
Source: TheCity.NYC
