‘We can use this moment to position ourselves in ways that best serve New Yorkers—those who have stayed, those who will return, and the newcomers who will power New York’s next cycle of growth.’
‘Permanent Open Streets in New York City will improve our quality of life, while setting a world-class example. But our approach needs to start with justice.’
Driving, cycling and bus usage have all rebounded somewhat since the first two months of the pandemic, but subway and commuter rail ridership remain low.
After a man stole one New Yorker’s CitiBike, the company told her to work with the cops, the cops told her to work with the company, and a $1,200 charge hung over her head.
Cycling advocates see promise in recent city initiatives but say they’d like to see the administration take more aggressive action overall when it comes to transforming New York’s streets.
‘The next time you’re driving or otherwise find yourself on Bushwick Avenue or Broadway ask yourself, Do I feel safe? Are the streets safe for children and older adults? Would I encourage people to bike or use Citi Bike here?’
The neighborhood has been in the middle of a tug-of-war between some local leaders and citywide policy over how far to go to accomodate bikers.
Activists say 15 cyclists have been killed on the city’s streets so far this year, including three fatalities that took place in one week.
The reduction of traffic deaths in New York City under his Vision Zero program is one of Mayor de Blasio’s talking points as he runs for president. But while deaths have fallen, an advocate and a Councilmember agree that progress has slowed.
The majority of the city’s designated bike lanes are unprotected: basically nothing more than around thee-feet wide stretches of asphalt marked by strips of paint and an occasional bike lane symbol. That has to change.