New York City’s new class of city council members are preparing to assume office. In advance of the new term, local publication StreetsBlog recently asked the incoming lawmakers about their transportation policy priorities. Not every incoming councilperson responded, but those who did offered a glimpse of the future of New York City’s streets. Below are summaries of Brooklyn’s incoming council members’ responses; more information is available via StreetsBlog.
In District 33, which includes Williamsburg and Greenpoint, incoming council member Lincoln Restler described his plans to achieve carbon neutrality in the district by advocating for “efficient, safe public transportation.” He also called for more livable streets, which he said depends on the construction of protected bike lanes, expanded public spaces, containerized garbage, and permanent outdoor dining.
In District 34, which includes Bushwick and Williamsburg, incoming council member Jen Gutierrez told Streetsblog she plans to advocate for car-reduction strategies and more pedestrian-friendly designs.
Over in District 35, which includes Fort Greene and Downtown Brooklyn, incoming council member Crystal Hudson described her plans to double down on the city’s Vision Zero program by increasing funding for protected bike lanes and bus lanes, accessible pedestrian signals, and redesigned intersections. She also called for more Open Streets and reduced car use.
Incoming District 36 council member Chi Osse said he plans to prioritize safer, more pleasant streets via the expansion of Open Streets. He also pledged to advocate for protected bike lanes.
Incoming District 37 council member Sandy Nurse described her plans to disincentivize car use by investing in better public transportation. Specifically, she told StreetsBlog, she plans to advocate for Leading Pedestrian Intervals, slow zones, and Turning Calm bumps, particularly at intersections along Fulton Avenue and Atlantic Avenue, among others.
Incoming District 38 council member Alexa Aviles pledged to advocate for safer streets, specifically calling for the improvement of “crossing conditions, lighting, and bringing in solutions like bus boarders and curb extensions.” He also emphasized the need for improved cyclist and pedestrian safety.
In District 39, which includes Park Slope and Kensington, incoming council member Shahana Hanif said her first priority will be “putting more resources towards making the deadly intersections at Ocean Parkway and Church Avenue in Kensington and Ninth Street and Fifth Avenue in Park Slope safer.” She specifically called for repaving the parkway’s greenway, reducing speed limits, and adding seating.
The final incoming council member to describe their plans to StreetsBlog was incoming council member Rita Joseph, who stressed her plan to bring down car crash fatalities and build greener streets by improving the speed and reliability of public transportation, and by building protected bike lanes.
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