DOT Delays Safety Improvements on Atlantic Ave For Two Years

Atlantic avenue: Prioritizing Safety in Brooklyn’s Bustling Corridor

Despite years of advocacy from residents and local officials, the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) is delaying a crucial redesign of Atlantic Avenue in Brooklyn. While the DOT insists on conducting a traffic study before committing to a “road diet” or other safety measures, the delay raises concerns about the prioritization of pedestrian and cyclist safety in this busy corridor.

Community Concerns Echo Across Atlantic Avenue

Atlantic Avenue, a six-lane roadway spanning Bedford-Stuyvesant and Crown Heights, has long been identified as a hazardous stretch for pedestrians and cyclists. Antonio Alvarez, a resident of Bed-Stuy, describes the road as “incredibly hazardous” citing speeding cars, blind turns, and lengthy crossing distances. “Cars fly down this road at extreme speeds,” Alvarez explains. “The crossing is incredibly long, and the turns are really blind, wich means walking or cycling around it is not only dangerous, but frankly, is really scary.”

Council Members Crystal Hudson and Chi Ossé, representing the project area, have consistently voiced concerns about Atlantic Avenue’s safety. Both have called for a comprehensive redesign of the avenue, advocating for improvements that prioritize pedestrian and cyclist well-being.

A Traffic Study Delay: Concerns Mount

While the DOT argues that a thorough traffic study is essential before implementing any redesign, the agency’s timeline raises concerns.Conducting the study, which could take up to two years, requires funding approval from the City Council. This lengthy process delays much-needed safety improvements, leaving residents vulnerable.

This delay underscores the crucial need for proactive measures to enhance pedestrian and cyclist safety. While traffic studies provide valuable data, prioritizing immediate improvements, such as shorter crossing distances, improved crosswalks, and traffic calming measures, can significantly reduce risks.

Looking Ahead: A Vision for Safer Streets

Reimagining Atlantic avenue requires a comprehensive approach that balances the needs of motorists, pedestrians, cyclists, and businesses. Implementing a road diet,narrowing lanes,adding protected bike lanes,and incorporating traffic calming devices can effectively reduce vehicle speeds,improve pedestrian visibility,and enhance overall safety.

Investing in safe streets is investing in community well-being. Atlantic Avenue’s redesign presents an possibility to create a more equitable and vibrant public space. Prioritizing pedestrian and cyclist safety, while minimizing traffic disruptions, is essential to building a truly sustainable and inclusive urban environment.

Moving forward, community engagement, transparent dialog, and a commitment to timely action are crucial to ensuring that Atlantic Avenue becomes a safer, more welcoming space for all.

Rethinking Atlantic Avenue: Safety and Connectivity in Focus

Walking or cycling down Atlantic Avenue can feel like traversing a dangerous obstacle course. A grand plan for rezoning this busy Brooklyn corridor presents a unique opportunity to transform this notorious stretch into a safer and more pedestrian-friendly experience.

A Road in Need of Change

Data paints a stark picture of the safety concerns on this stretch of Atlantic Avenue. Between 2021 and 2024, a staggering four fatalities occurred, involving both motorists and pedestrians. A further 831 reported crashes resulted in 473 injuries, averaging one crash every other day.

Council Member Hudson highlights a key contributor to thes alarming statistics: the unusual six-lane configuration.

“This is the only stretch of Atlantic Avenue that is six lanes,whereas the rest of Atlantic Avenue,both to the east and the west of this particular corridor,is four lanes wide,”

This disparity not only increases traffic speed but also creates a less inviting environment for pedestrians and cyclists. the rezoning plan presents a chance to rectify this situation and prioritize the safety and well-being of all road users.

Prioritizing Safety in the Rezoning Plan

Council Member hudson is adamant about the need for a comprehensive redesign of Atlantic Avenue, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. “We must secure a fully funded commitment for a comprehensive redesign of Atlantic Avenue, one of the most dangerous corridors in the entire borough,” Hudson stated. Borough president Antonio Reynoso, who approved the rezoning plan, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the need for DOT to prioritize pedestrian and cyclist safety.

During a recent community meeting, Hudson expressed a desire to ensure the rezoning plan aligns with residents’ vision and priorities, referencing years of community engagement on the project.

DOT’s Stance and the road Ahead

While the Department of Transportation (DOT) acknowledges the need for improvements, it states a traffic study is crucial before committing to a road diet or other significant changes. “On the road diet itself, that’s something that we can neither commit to right now, nor dismiss out of hand right now,” said DOT Borough Planner Dash Henley. He explained the study could take up to two years and requires funding from the City council.

The Need for Prioritized Safety Measures

The delay in implementing safety measures underscores a critical issue: the need for proactive and responsive infrastructure planning. Cities must prioritize the safety of pedestrians and cyclists,especially in areas undergoing significant advancement. Waiting for traffic studies to justify basic safety improvements can have dangerous consequences.

The Atlantic Avenue situation highlights the importance of community engagement and advocacy in shaping urban development. Residents and local officials must continue to push for a comprehensive redesign that prioritizes safety and accessibility for all users of the street.

The future of Atlantic Avenue hangs in the balance. Will the City Council prioritize funding for the necessary traffic study and subsequent safety improvements, or will the road remain a dangerous obstacle for residents and visitors alike?

The time for action is now. Advocates, residents, and policymakers must work together to ensure that Atlantic Avenue becomes a safer, more vibrant, and inclusive space for all.

Rethinking Atlantic Avenue: Safety and Connectivity in Focus

Walking or cycling down Atlantic Avenue can feel like traversing a hazardous obstacle course. A grand plan for rezoning this busy Brooklyn corridor presents a unique opportunity to transform this notorious stretch into a safer and more pedestrian-friendly experience.

A road in Need of Change

Data paints a stark picture of the safety concerns on Atlantic Avenue. Between 2021 and 2024, four fatalities occurred, involving both motorists and pedestrians. A staggering 831 reported crashes resulted in 473 injuries,averaging one crash every other day. Council Member Hudson highlights a key contributor to these alarming statistics: the unusual six-lane configuration.

“This is the only stretch of Atlantic Avenue that is six lanes, whereas the rest of Atlantic Avenue, both to the east and west, is only four lanes. It’s creating dangerous conditions for pedestrians and cyclists, forcing them to compete for space with speeding cars. “

This dangerous setup, coupled with limited pedestrian infrastructure, leaves pedestrians and cyclists vying for a small sliver of public space.

Moving Towards a solution

Advocates, like Alex Morano, a volunteer chair of Transportation Alternatives Brooklyn, are urging for a “road diet.” This concept involves narrowing the road to prioritize pedestrian and cyclist safety while perhaps reducing traffic speed and congestion.

“This shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone,” said Alex Morano. “The reluctance agencies are showing to make meaningful commitments to a street redesign is extremely disappointing. To make progress, we need to take advantage of these opportunities. there isn’t going to be another atlantic Avenue rezoning in our lifetimes, so we really only have one chance to get this right.”

The rezoning proposal is now in the hands of the Planning Commission, which is expected to issue its proposal later this month. The final decision rests with the city Council.

The road Ahead

the rezoning of Atlantic Avenue presents a critical moment for Brooklyn. Investing in safer streets will not only protect lives but also foster a stronger sense of community and improve quality of life. This rezoning has the potential to transform Atlantic Avenue,making it a more inclusive and welcoming space for all.

Implementing a road diet, coupled with dedicated bike lanes, wider sidewalks, and improved crosswalks, could significantly enhance pedestrian and cyclist safety.Reducing traffic lanes could encourage slower speeds, creating a calmer and more inviting environment. These changes would prioritize the needs of residents and visitors, fostering a vibrant and accessible community.

The Atlantic Avenue rezoning offers a chance to rewrite the narrative of this busy corridor. By prioritizing safety, connectivity, and community well-being, Brooklyn can pave the way for a more sustainable and equitable future.

Reimagining Atlantic Avenue: A Call for Safer streets

Atlantic Avenue, a major thoroughfare in Brooklyn, faces a critical crossroads. While a recent rezoning project offers the potential for positive change,the current six-lane configuration poses significant risks to pedestrians and cyclists. The disparity in road width between the east and west sides of the corridor, with the latter stretching four lanes wide, creates a dangerous environment.

The Price of Car-Centric Design

This road design prioritizes fast traffic flow at the expense of vulnerable road users. Pedestrians and cyclists are forced to navigate a slim strip of public space, contending with speeding vehicles and limited visibility at blind turns.

Moving Towards a Solution

Advocates, including Alex Morano, volunteer chair of Transportation Alternatives Brooklyn, are urging for a “road diet.” This concept redefines street design by prioritizing pedestrian and cyclist safety. Narrowing lanes, implementing traffic calming measures, and creating dedicated bike lanes are key elements of this approach.

“This shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone,” said Alex Morano.”The reluctance agencies are showing to make meaningful commitments to a street redesign is extremely disappointing… To make progress, we need to take advantage of these opportunities. There isn’t going to be another Atlantic Avenue rezoning in our lifetimes, so we really only have one chance to get this right.”

Interview: Alex Morano on Reimagining Atlantic Avenue

Archyde sat down with Alex Morano to discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by the Atlantic Avenue rezoning.

Archyde asks:

Alex, thank you for joining us. Residents have been voicing concerns about the safety of Atlantic Avenue for years. Can you tell us more about the specific risks pedestrians and cyclists face on this stretch of road?

Alex Morano responds:

Certainly. atlantic Avenue, especially this six-lane section, presents a daunting challenge for anyone not driving.The sheer number of lanes encourages speeding, and the long crossing distances make it incredibly risky, especially for children and seniors. Adding to the danger are blind turns, limited visibility, and a lack of proper pedestrian infrastructure. It’s a recipe for disaster.

Archyde asks:

The proposed rezoning includes plans for improvements. How do these fit into the broader vision for making Atlantic Avenue safer and more sustainable?

Alex Morano responds:

This rezoning offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform Atlantic Avenue. We need to move beyond the outdated notion that roads are solely for cars.A “road diet,” which involves reducing lanes and dedicating more space to pedestrians, cyclists, and public transit, is crucial to achieving this vision. It would curb speeding, improve traffic flow, and create a more vibrant, walkable environment.

Archyde asks:

What response have you seen from city officials and the Department of Transportation regarding these proposed changes?

The Atlantic Avenue rezoning presents a crucial opportunity to reimagine urban transportation.By prioritizing the needs of pedestrians and cyclists,cities can create safer,more equitable,and sustainable spaces for all. Advocates like Alex Morano are calling for bold action, urging city officials to embrace innovative solutions and prioritize human safety over car dominance. The future of Atlantic Avenue, and indeed many urban streets, hangs in the balance. Will we continue down the path of car-centric design,or will we sieze this opportunity to create a truly people-centered urban landscape?

Reimagining Atlantic Avenue: Prioritizing Safety and Equity

The proposed rezoning of Atlantic Avenue in Brooklyn presents a crucial opportunity to reshape a vital community thoroughfare,prioritizing pedestrian safety,equitable access,and enhanced quality of life.

A Pressing Need for Change

Residents and advocates alike have long called for improvements to Atlantic Avenue, citing dangerous traffic conditions and a lack of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. Alex Morano, a prominent advocate for safer streets, emphasizes the urgency of the situation, stating, “We’ve encountered some hesitation. Traffic studies and funding allocation take time, and there seems to be a lack of urgency in prioritizing pedestrian safety. The argument that we need more data before making sensible changes is troubling. We already have the data: the crash statistics speak for themselves. We need action, not more studies.”

Challenging Conventional Wisdom

One common argument against reimagining roadways ofen centers on the potential for increased traffic congestion. However, Morano counters this notion, explaining, “The reality is, congestion is often a result of overly wide roads encouraging speeding and inefficient traffic flow. A well-planned ‘road diet’ can actually improve traffic flow by creating smoother traffic patterns and reducing the number of lane changes.” This suggests that a reduction in lanes, when strategically implemented, can lead to more efficient traffic movement.

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Morano envisions a transformative change for Atlantic Avenue. He urges residents, council members, and the city as a whole to seize this opportunity, stating, “This rezoning presents a unique chance to create a safer, more equitable, and more enjoyable Atlantic Avenue for everyone. We must not let this opportunity slip away.”

Beyond Safety: Creating a Vibrant Community

The rezoning of Atlantic Avenue has the potential to extend far beyond improving safety. By prioritizing pedestrian accessibility and creating a more welcoming public realm, Atlantic Avenue can become a hub for social interaction, commerce, and cultural expression. This shift towards a more pedestrian-centric environment can foster a stronger sense of community and enhance the overall quality of life for residents.

The rezoning of Atlantic Avenue offers a chance to move towards a more equitable and sustainable urban future.By placing pedestrian safety and community well-being at the forefront, the city can create a model for other neighborhoods to follow, demonstrating that a commitment to livability and accessibility can go hand in hand with economic vitality.

How will the proposed changes to Atlantic Avenue address concerns about speeding, particularly given the existing six-lane configuration?

Reimagining atlantic Avenue: A Call for Safer Streets

Interview: Alex Morano on Reimagining Atlantic Avenue

Archyde sat down with Alex Morano to discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by the Atlantic Avenue rezoning.

Archyde asks:

Alex, thank you for joining us. residents have been voicing concerns about the safety of Atlantic Avenue for years. can you tell us more about the specific risks pedestrians and cyclists face on this stretch of road?

Alex Morano responds:

Certainly. atlantic Avenue, especially this six-lane section, presents a daunting challenge for anyone not driving.The sheer number of lanes encourages speeding, and the long crossing distances make it incredibly risky, especially for children and seniors. Adding to the danger are blind turns,limited visibility,and a lack of proper pedestrian infrastructure. It’s a recipe for disaster.

Archyde asks:

The proposed rezoning includes plans for improvements.How do these fit into the broader vision for making Atlantic Avenue safer and more enduring?

Alex Morano responds:

This rezoning offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform Atlantic Avenue. We need to move beyond the outdated notion that roads are solely for cars.A “road diet,” which involves reducing lanes and dedicating more space to pedestrians, cyclists, and public transit, is crucial to achieving this vision. It would curb speeding, improve traffic flow, and create a more vibrant, walkable surroundings.

Archyde asks:

What response have you seen from city officials and the Department of Transportation regarding these proposed changes?

Alex Morano responds:

We’ve encountered some hesitation. Traffic studies and funding allocation take time, and there seems to be a lack of urgency in prioritizing pedestrian safety. The argument that we need more data before making sensible changes is troubling. We already have the data: the crash statistics speak for themselves. We need action, not more studies.

Archyde asks:

What would you say to residents who might be skeptical about the idea of reducing traffic lanes, fearing it will lead to increased congestion?

Alex Morano responds:

The reality is, congestion is frequently enough a result of overly wide roads encouraging speeding and inefficient traffic flow. A well-planned ‘road diet’ can actually improve traffic flow by creating smoother traffic patterns and reducing the number of lane changes.