Who’s Injuring and Killing Pedestrians in Queens CB3?
Red Lights, Broken Lives: Queens Streets Are Killing Our Kids
Queens CB3: Jan 1, 2022 - Jun 4, 2025
Children in the Crosswalk, Sirens in the Night
A four-year-old and her sister, eight, stepped into the crosswalk on 37th Avenue. An SUV driver went around a car, ran the red, and hit them. The driver fled. The girls went to Elmhurst Hospital. They survived. The driver is still out there. Police said the girls had minor injuries. The street remembers more than that.
In the last twelve months, 710 people were hurt and 8 suffered serious injuries in Queens CB3. Two people died.
The Numbers Do Not Lie
Since 2022, there have been 13 deaths and 2,140 injuries on these streets. Children, elders, workers. A man, 23, killed on his way to work. A child, 8, crushed crossing with the light. A woman, 60, bled out at the curb. The numbers do not care about age or dreams. They only climb.
Leadership: Words and Waiting
City leaders talk about Vision Zero. They talk about speed cameras and lower limits. But the carnage continues. After a firefighter killed a young man while driving drunk and high at 83 mph, Queens DA Melinda Katz said, “Drunk, drugged and reckless driving are dire threats to everyone on our shared roadways.” The victim’s brother said, “Pena will walk the streets for a $50,000 bail… Justin will never walk the streets again.”
Speed cameras work, but the law that keeps them running is always at risk. The city can lower speed limits now, but waits. Every day of delay is another roll of the dice.
What Comes Next
This is not fate. This is policy.
Call your council member. Call the mayor. Demand a 20 mph speed limit. Demand permanent speed cameras. Demand streets where children can cross and live. Take action now.
Citations
▸ Citations
- Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash, ABC7, Published 2025-02-28
- Driver Runs Red, Hits Two Girls, NY Daily News, Published 2025-05-26
- Queens Crash: Speed, Drugs, One Dead, CBS New York, Published 2025-04-17
- Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens, NY Daily News, Published 2025-02-27
- Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4699492 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-06-04
- Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash, ABC7, Published 2025-02-28
- Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens, New York Post, Published 2025-02-27
Other Representatives
District 34
75-35 31st Ave. Suite 206B (2nd Floor), East Elmhurst, NY 11370
Room 654, Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY 12248
District 25
37-32 75th Street, 1st Floor, Jackson Heights, NY 11372
718-803-6373
250 Broadway, Suite 1816, New York, NY 10007
212-788-7066
District 13
74-09 37th Ave. Suite 302, Jackson Heights, NY 11372
Room 307, Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY 12247
▸ Other Geographies
Queens CB3 Queens Community Board 3 sits in Queens, Precinct 115, District 25, AD 34, SD 13.
It contains Jackson Heights, East Elmhurst, North Corona.
▸ See also
Traffic Safety Timeline for Queens Community Board 3
11-Year-Old Pedestrian Injured Crossing Queens Street▸An 11-year-old boy was struck while crossing 73 Street in Queens. He suffered a head contusion but remained conscious. The crash involved an unspecified vehicle. No driver errors or contributing factors were reported by police.
According to the police report, an 11-year-old male pedestrian was injured at the intersection of 73 Street and 37 Avenue in Queens. The boy was crossing with the signal when he was struck by an unspecified vehicle. He sustained a head injury classified as a contusion and remained conscious at the scene. The report lists no contributing factors or driver errors such as failure to yield or speeding. No information about the vehicle or driver was provided. The pedestrian was not ejected and no safety equipment was noted. The incident highlights the dangers pedestrians face even when crossing legally.
Sedan and Pickup Truck Collide on 34 Avenue▸A sedan and a pickup truck crashed on 34 Avenue. The sedan driver, a 72-year-old man, suffered back injuries. Both vehicles struck each other head-on and on the side. The driver ignored traffic controls, causing the collision.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on 34 Avenue involving a sedan and a pickup truck. The sedan driver, a 72-year-old man, was injured with back trauma but remained conscious and was wearing a lap belt. The crash involved impact to the sedan's center front end and the truck's left side doors. The report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' and 'Other Vehicular' as contributing factors, indicating driver errors related to ignoring traffic signals or signs. No other injuries or victims were reported. The driver was licensed and operating the vehicle going straight ahead at the time of impact.
Speeding Sedan Rear-Ends SUV on Parkway▸A sedan, moving too fast, smashed into an SUV’s rear on Grand Central Parkway near midnight. Metal twisted. A woman in the front seat bled from the head, semiconscious. The crash left the night scarred and silent.
A 2010 Infiniti sedan, traveling at unsafe speed, slammed into the rear of a KIA SUV on Grand Central Parkway just before midnight. According to the police report, 'A 2010 Infiniti sedan, speeding west, slammed into the rear of a KIA SUV. Metal crumpled. A 46-year-old woman, belted in the front seat, bled from the head. Semiconscious.' The woman, a front-seat passenger, suffered severe head bleeding and was semiconscious at the scene. Both vehicles were demolished. The police report lists 'Unsafe Speed' as the contributing factor. No other driver errors or contributing factors are noted in the data.
6Queens Multi-Passenger Sedan Crash Injures Six▸Two sedans collided in Queens at 34-34 77 Street. One car carried five passengers and a driver. All six suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Police cited unsafe speed as the cause. No one was ejected. All were conscious after the crash.
According to the police report, a collision occurred in Queens involving two sedans. One vehicle was carrying six occupants: a 44-year-old male driver and five passengers aged 13 to 49. All occupants sustained neck injuries and complained of whiplash. The report lists unsafe speed as the contributing factor to the crash. The driver of the sedan with occupants was licensed in New York. None of the occupants were ejected from the vehicle, and all remained conscious. The crash caused damage to the left rear quarter panel and left side doors of the parked vehicles involved. The police report does not list any contributing factors related to the passengers or safety equipment.
Sedan Strikes Pedestrian Crossing Queens Intersection▸A 59-year-old man was injured crossing 25 Avenue at a marked crosswalk in Queens. The sedan, making a left turn, hit him with its front center. Lighting defects contributed. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries but remained conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling northwest on 25 Avenue in Queens struck a 59-year-old male pedestrian crossing at a marked crosswalk without a signal. The driver was making a left turn when the collision occurred, impacting the pedestrian with the vehicle's center front end. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to the knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3, and remained conscious. The report lists 'Other Lighting Defects' as a contributing factor to the crash. No driver errors such as failure to yield or speeding were specified. The vehicle showed no damage. The pedestrian's crossing action and location were noted, but no safety equipment or signals were involved.
Sedan Swerves, Driver Killed, Passenger Hurt▸A sedan veered on Grand Central Parkway. Metal twisted. The driver, twenty, died at the wheel. His head crushed. A passenger, same age, hurt and conscious. An SUV lay wrecked. The road stayed silent after the crash.
A deadly crash struck Grand Central Parkway near 40.767765°N, 73.86499°W. According to the police report, a 20-year-old man driving a sedan swerved in reaction to an uninvolved vehicle. His car crumpled. He suffered fatal head injuries and died at the scene. A 20-year-old male passenger was injured, reporting pain and nausea but remained conscious. An SUV was also demolished in the collision. The police report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the main contributing factor. The driver was not wearing any safety equipment. No other driver errors or contributing factors are noted in the report.
Unlicensed Moped Hits Taxi Turning Left▸A moped driver without a license struck a taxi making a left turn on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The moped driver was ejected and suffered bruises and injuries to the entire body. The crash involved improper turning and lane usage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling westbound collided with a taxi making a left turn eastbound on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The moped driver, unlicensed and riding without safety equipment, was ejected and sustained contusions and injuries to the entire body. The taxi driver was licensed and driving with one occupant. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors. The point of impact was the taxi's right rear bumper and the moped's center front end. The moped driver was conscious but injured. No pedestrian was involved.
Krishnan Supports Safety Boosting Local Speed Limit Control▸Council Member Lincoln Restler joined advocates at City Hall. They pressed Albany to let New York City set its own speed limits. Families mourned children lost to speeding drivers. The Assembly remains the last barrier. The push is urgent. Lives hang in the balance.
On March 29, 2023, Council Member Lincoln Restler and other city officials rallied for Sammy’s Law, a bill allowing New York City to set its own speed limits without state approval. The bill, named for Sammy Cohen Eckstein, killed by a speeding driver in 2013, would let the city lower limits to 20 mph. The matter, described as 'Let New York City lower its own speed limits,' has strong support from the mayor, DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez, and advocates like Families for Safe Streets. Restler’s action was public advocacy. The Assembly is the final hurdle; the bill is already in the governor’s and Senate’s budgets. Advocates cite a 36% drop in pedestrian deaths after the 2014 speed limit change. Families demand action to prevent more deaths.
-
City polls, advocates call on Assembly to let NYC set its own speed limits,
amny.com,
Published 2023-03-29
S 4647Ramos votes yes on highway worker safety bill, overall safety unchanged.▸Senate passes S 4647. Bill hikes penalties for endangering highway workers. It funds more enforcement. It pushes work zone safety awareness. Lawmakers move to protect workers from reckless drivers.
Senate bill S 4647, titled "Increases penalties for endangerment of a highway worker, promotes work zone safety awareness, and establishes a fund for additional work zone safety enforcement," advanced through committee on April 15, 2024. Sponsored by Timothy M. Kennedy, with Joseph P. Addabbo Jr., Pamela Helming, Mario Mattera, Robert Rolison, and James Skoufis as co-sponsors, the bill passed multiple Senate votes. The measure targets drivers who endanger highway workers, boosts safety awareness, and funds enforcement. The bill aims to curb driver recklessness in work zones, where danger is high and impact is deadly.
-
File S 4647,
Open States,
Published 2023-03-21
S 775Ramos votes yes to expand ignition interlock monitoring, boosting road safety.▸Senate backs S 775. The bill defines the ignition interlock monitor’s job. It forces offenders to install devices and obey court orders. Lawmakers act to keep repeat drunk drivers off the street.
Senate bill S 775, titled "Relates to the responsibilities of an ignition interlock monitor," passed committee votes on February 1, March 21, and May 16, 2023. The bill describes the monitor’s role and mandates compliance for those ordered to install ignition interlock devices. Primary sponsor Jeremy Cooney (District 56) led, joined by Nathalia Fernandez, Monica Martinez, and Shelley Mayer. The measure saw broad support, with senators voting yes across multiple sessions. The law aims to keep drivers with violations from endangering others by enforcing strict compliance with court-ordered ignition interlocks.
-
File S 775,
Open States,
Published 2023-03-21
Distracted Driver Crashes Into E-Scooter Rider▸A 28-year-old man on an e-scooter suffered severe injuries after a collision on 31 Avenue in Queens. The driver, distracted and speeding, struck the scooter head-on. The rider fractured and dislocated parts of his body, remaining conscious but badly hurt.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on 31 Avenue in Queens involving an e-scooter and another vehicle. The e-scooter driver, a 28-year-old male, was injured with fractures and dislocations to his entire body but was conscious at the scene. The report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The point of impact was the center front end of both vehicles. The e-scooter driver was not ejected and wore no safety equipment. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and speeding in Queens, resulting in serious injury to a vulnerable road user.
Queens Sedan Hits Pedestrian Walking Highway▸A 55-year-old woman walking along a Queens highway was struck by a northbound sedan. The impact hit her elbow and lower arm, causing bruising. The driver’s vehicle suffered damage to the left side doors. The pedestrian remained conscious.
According to the police report, a 55-year-old female pedestrian was injured while walking along a highway in Queens. She suffered contusions to her elbow and lower arm after being struck by a northbound sedan. The sedan’s left side doors were damaged on impact. The report lists no contributing factors or driver errors such as failure to yield or speeding. The pedestrian was conscious and injured but not ejected. No safety equipment or helmet was noted. The crash occurred near 30-57 70 Street. The driver was licensed and driving straight ahead at the time of collision.
SUV Slams Into Stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard▸A trailing SUV crashed into a stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard. The driver in back, age 61, suffered back pain and whiplash. Police cited following too closely and unsafe speed. Both vehicles showed heavy damage.
According to the police report, a 61-year-old man driving a Jeep SUV rear-ended a stopped Honda SUV on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The trailing driver was injured, reporting back pain and whiplash. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The Jeep was slowing or stopping before impact, while the Honda was stopped in traffic. Both vehicles sustained significant front and rear damage. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
Jessica Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Alternatives▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. Two new bus routes will replace it. Jessica Ramos cheered the move. The AirTrain’s high price and twisted route drew fire. Buses promise faster, cheaper, cleaner rides for millions. Queens riders win. Cars lose.
""This is the right move. My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was. I’m so proud of East Elmhurst for standing up to this bad plan. We still have to look at how to expand transit to those parts of Queens, especially if the proposed football stadium is going to be building what effectively is a new neighborhood in Queens. The 7 alone won’t be able to handle it."" -- Jessica Ramos
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project after an expert panel review. The panel found the $2-billion monorail would not outperform improved bus service. Instead, two new bus routes will serve the airport: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a new non-stop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard using electric buses and transit signal priority. The total cost is about $500 million, far less than any rail option. State Senator Jessica Ramos, district 13, praised the decision, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' The AirTrain faced mounting opposition for its cost, indirect route, and lack of transparency. The new bus plan aims to serve millions of riders annually and can be implemented within two to five years.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2023-03-13
Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Over AirTrain▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. She chose faster, cheaper bus routes instead. The new plan brings electric buses, dedicated lanes, and direct service. Advocates cheered. Queens riders win. The AirTrain dies. Buses roll on.
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul and the Port Authority canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project. The decision followed an expert panel review, which found the $2 billion monorail would not outperform expanded bus service. Instead, the panel recommended two new bus routes: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a nonstop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard to all LaGuardia terminals, using electric buses and transit signal priority. The matter summary states: 'Gov. Hochul and the Port Authority have canceled the controversial Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project, opting instead for two new, improved bus connections to the airport.' State Senator Jessica Ramos welcomed the move, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' Advocates and elected officials praised the shift, though some called for even stronger bus priority and further transit expansion in Queens.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-13
Jessica Ramos Urges Safety Education Opposes E-Bike Bans▸State senators pressed DOTs to fight e-bike stigma and protect riders. They called for education, better battery rules, and fair treatment for delivery workers. City Hall’s inaction leaves e-bike users exposed. Bans loom while agencies stall. Vulnerable riders pay the price.
On March 2, 2023, State Sen. Jessica Ramos and colleagues sent a letter to city and state DOTs urging action against the 'demonization' of e-bikes and e-scooters. The letter, signed by Ramos and State Sen. Liz Krueger, demanded more education on safe riding and battery use, warning, 'We cannot allow a narrative to build against a vital, green, and growing mode of transportation.' Ramos criticized City Hall for failing to post speed limits and design streets for e-mobility. Krueger backed battery safety bills, while Councilman Bob Holden pushed for outright bans, citing deaths and injuries. The senators warned that inaction could lead to blanket bans, hitting delivery workers hardest. The city’s plan for safe charging hubs faces local opposition. DOT claims a 'holistic approach,' but vulnerable riders remain at risk as agencies drag their feet.
-
State Pols Call on DOTs to Counter E-Bike ‘Demonization’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-10
SUV Rear-Ends Another on Astoria Boulevard▸Two SUVs collided on Astoria Boulevard. One driver struck from behind. Neck injury and whiplash followed. Police cited traffic control disregard and tailgating. Metal twisted. Danger clear.
According to the police report, two SUVs crashed on Astoria Boulevard. The rear SUV, driven by a 46-year-old woman, hit the back of another SUV that was slowing or stopping. She suffered neck pain and whiplash but remained conscious and was not ejected. Police listed "Traffic Control Disregarded" and "Following Too Closely" as contributing factors. The rear SUV's right front bumper and the front SUV's left rear bumper were damaged. No other injuries or contributing factors were reported.
2SUV Strikes Van on 88 Street Queens▸A 68-year-old male driver and a 49-year-old female passenger were injured in a Queens crash. The SUV hit the van’s right front bumper. Traffic control devices were not working properly. Both occupants suffered internal injuries and remained conscious.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on 88 Street in Queens when a 2022 SUV traveling east struck a 2014 van traveling south. The van was hit on its right front bumper, causing injuries to its two occupants: a 68-year-old male driver with chest injuries and a 49-year-old female front passenger with head injuries. Both were conscious but suffered internal injuries, with the passenger trapped in the vehicle. The report lists "Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working" as contributing factors. No driver errors were specified. The van was damaged on its right front quarter panel, and the SUV sustained damage to its left side doors. Neither occupant was ejected.
Moped Hits Pedestrian Working in Queens▸A moped struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian working in the roadway at 93-21 37 Avenue, Queens. The pedestrian suffered knee and lower leg bruises. Police cited aggressive driving and unsafe speed as contributing factors. The moped showed no damage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling west on 93-21 37 Avenue in Queens struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian who was working in the roadway at an intersection. The pedestrian sustained contusions and bruises to her knee and lower leg and remained conscious after the collision. The report lists aggressive driving and unsafe speed as the primary contributing factors to the crash. The moped was going straight ahead and impacted the pedestrian with its center front end but showed no vehicle damage. No other factors such as helmet use or pedestrian error were noted in the report.
González-Rojas Opposes State Underfunding of MTA Safety‑Harming Budget▸Governor Hochul’s budget dodges state duty. City pays more, gets less. Riders face fare hikes, no better service. State hoards surplus, starves transit. Lawmakers protest. Suburbs dodge taxes. The city shoulders the load. Riders pay the price. Streets stay dangerous.
Governor Hochul’s 2023 state budget proposal, analyzed March 3, 2023, keeps New York State’s long-running refusal to match MTA funding under law 18-b. The budget, now under legislative review, forces New York City to cover a $500 million gap, while the state sits on an $8.7 billion surplus. The matter: 'Hochul's budget not only asks city residents to cover the largest chunk of the MTA's budget gap, but does so in part by continuing long-running practices that essentially under-fund the MTA by millions of dollars each year.' Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and State Sen. Andrew Gounardes both object, demanding the state honor its legal obligations. Riders Alliance and Reinvent Albany condemn the austerity. With fare hikes looming and no service improvements, city transit riders—often pedestrians and cyclists—bear the brunt. The budget leaves vulnerable road users exposed, as transit stagnates and car dominance persists.
-
Analysis: Hochul Turns Her Back on Transit Riders With Her MTA Budget,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-03
An 11-year-old boy was struck while crossing 73 Street in Queens. He suffered a head contusion but remained conscious. The crash involved an unspecified vehicle. No driver errors or contributing factors were reported by police.
According to the police report, an 11-year-old male pedestrian was injured at the intersection of 73 Street and 37 Avenue in Queens. The boy was crossing with the signal when he was struck by an unspecified vehicle. He sustained a head injury classified as a contusion and remained conscious at the scene. The report lists no contributing factors or driver errors such as failure to yield or speeding. No information about the vehicle or driver was provided. The pedestrian was not ejected and no safety equipment was noted. The incident highlights the dangers pedestrians face even when crossing legally.
Sedan and Pickup Truck Collide on 34 Avenue▸A sedan and a pickup truck crashed on 34 Avenue. The sedan driver, a 72-year-old man, suffered back injuries. Both vehicles struck each other head-on and on the side. The driver ignored traffic controls, causing the collision.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on 34 Avenue involving a sedan and a pickup truck. The sedan driver, a 72-year-old man, was injured with back trauma but remained conscious and was wearing a lap belt. The crash involved impact to the sedan's center front end and the truck's left side doors. The report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' and 'Other Vehicular' as contributing factors, indicating driver errors related to ignoring traffic signals or signs. No other injuries or victims were reported. The driver was licensed and operating the vehicle going straight ahead at the time of impact.
Speeding Sedan Rear-Ends SUV on Parkway▸A sedan, moving too fast, smashed into an SUV’s rear on Grand Central Parkway near midnight. Metal twisted. A woman in the front seat bled from the head, semiconscious. The crash left the night scarred and silent.
A 2010 Infiniti sedan, traveling at unsafe speed, slammed into the rear of a KIA SUV on Grand Central Parkway just before midnight. According to the police report, 'A 2010 Infiniti sedan, speeding west, slammed into the rear of a KIA SUV. Metal crumpled. A 46-year-old woman, belted in the front seat, bled from the head. Semiconscious.' The woman, a front-seat passenger, suffered severe head bleeding and was semiconscious at the scene. Both vehicles were demolished. The police report lists 'Unsafe Speed' as the contributing factor. No other driver errors or contributing factors are noted in the data.
6Queens Multi-Passenger Sedan Crash Injures Six▸Two sedans collided in Queens at 34-34 77 Street. One car carried five passengers and a driver. All six suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Police cited unsafe speed as the cause. No one was ejected. All were conscious after the crash.
According to the police report, a collision occurred in Queens involving two sedans. One vehicle was carrying six occupants: a 44-year-old male driver and five passengers aged 13 to 49. All occupants sustained neck injuries and complained of whiplash. The report lists unsafe speed as the contributing factor to the crash. The driver of the sedan with occupants was licensed in New York. None of the occupants were ejected from the vehicle, and all remained conscious. The crash caused damage to the left rear quarter panel and left side doors of the parked vehicles involved. The police report does not list any contributing factors related to the passengers or safety equipment.
Sedan Strikes Pedestrian Crossing Queens Intersection▸A 59-year-old man was injured crossing 25 Avenue at a marked crosswalk in Queens. The sedan, making a left turn, hit him with its front center. Lighting defects contributed. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries but remained conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling northwest on 25 Avenue in Queens struck a 59-year-old male pedestrian crossing at a marked crosswalk without a signal. The driver was making a left turn when the collision occurred, impacting the pedestrian with the vehicle's center front end. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to the knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3, and remained conscious. The report lists 'Other Lighting Defects' as a contributing factor to the crash. No driver errors such as failure to yield or speeding were specified. The vehicle showed no damage. The pedestrian's crossing action and location were noted, but no safety equipment or signals were involved.
Sedan Swerves, Driver Killed, Passenger Hurt▸A sedan veered on Grand Central Parkway. Metal twisted. The driver, twenty, died at the wheel. His head crushed. A passenger, same age, hurt and conscious. An SUV lay wrecked. The road stayed silent after the crash.
A deadly crash struck Grand Central Parkway near 40.767765°N, 73.86499°W. According to the police report, a 20-year-old man driving a sedan swerved in reaction to an uninvolved vehicle. His car crumpled. He suffered fatal head injuries and died at the scene. A 20-year-old male passenger was injured, reporting pain and nausea but remained conscious. An SUV was also demolished in the collision. The police report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the main contributing factor. The driver was not wearing any safety equipment. No other driver errors or contributing factors are noted in the report.
Unlicensed Moped Hits Taxi Turning Left▸A moped driver without a license struck a taxi making a left turn on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The moped driver was ejected and suffered bruises and injuries to the entire body. The crash involved improper turning and lane usage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling westbound collided with a taxi making a left turn eastbound on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The moped driver, unlicensed and riding without safety equipment, was ejected and sustained contusions and injuries to the entire body. The taxi driver was licensed and driving with one occupant. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors. The point of impact was the taxi's right rear bumper and the moped's center front end. The moped driver was conscious but injured. No pedestrian was involved.
Krishnan Supports Safety Boosting Local Speed Limit Control▸Council Member Lincoln Restler joined advocates at City Hall. They pressed Albany to let New York City set its own speed limits. Families mourned children lost to speeding drivers. The Assembly remains the last barrier. The push is urgent. Lives hang in the balance.
On March 29, 2023, Council Member Lincoln Restler and other city officials rallied for Sammy’s Law, a bill allowing New York City to set its own speed limits without state approval. The bill, named for Sammy Cohen Eckstein, killed by a speeding driver in 2013, would let the city lower limits to 20 mph. The matter, described as 'Let New York City lower its own speed limits,' has strong support from the mayor, DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez, and advocates like Families for Safe Streets. Restler’s action was public advocacy. The Assembly is the final hurdle; the bill is already in the governor’s and Senate’s budgets. Advocates cite a 36% drop in pedestrian deaths after the 2014 speed limit change. Families demand action to prevent more deaths.
-
City polls, advocates call on Assembly to let NYC set its own speed limits,
amny.com,
Published 2023-03-29
S 4647Ramos votes yes on highway worker safety bill, overall safety unchanged.▸Senate passes S 4647. Bill hikes penalties for endangering highway workers. It funds more enforcement. It pushes work zone safety awareness. Lawmakers move to protect workers from reckless drivers.
Senate bill S 4647, titled "Increases penalties for endangerment of a highway worker, promotes work zone safety awareness, and establishes a fund for additional work zone safety enforcement," advanced through committee on April 15, 2024. Sponsored by Timothy M. Kennedy, with Joseph P. Addabbo Jr., Pamela Helming, Mario Mattera, Robert Rolison, and James Skoufis as co-sponsors, the bill passed multiple Senate votes. The measure targets drivers who endanger highway workers, boosts safety awareness, and funds enforcement. The bill aims to curb driver recklessness in work zones, where danger is high and impact is deadly.
-
File S 4647,
Open States,
Published 2023-03-21
S 775Ramos votes yes to expand ignition interlock monitoring, boosting road safety.▸Senate backs S 775. The bill defines the ignition interlock monitor’s job. It forces offenders to install devices and obey court orders. Lawmakers act to keep repeat drunk drivers off the street.
Senate bill S 775, titled "Relates to the responsibilities of an ignition interlock monitor," passed committee votes on February 1, March 21, and May 16, 2023. The bill describes the monitor’s role and mandates compliance for those ordered to install ignition interlock devices. Primary sponsor Jeremy Cooney (District 56) led, joined by Nathalia Fernandez, Monica Martinez, and Shelley Mayer. The measure saw broad support, with senators voting yes across multiple sessions. The law aims to keep drivers with violations from endangering others by enforcing strict compliance with court-ordered ignition interlocks.
-
File S 775,
Open States,
Published 2023-03-21
Distracted Driver Crashes Into E-Scooter Rider▸A 28-year-old man on an e-scooter suffered severe injuries after a collision on 31 Avenue in Queens. The driver, distracted and speeding, struck the scooter head-on. The rider fractured and dislocated parts of his body, remaining conscious but badly hurt.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on 31 Avenue in Queens involving an e-scooter and another vehicle. The e-scooter driver, a 28-year-old male, was injured with fractures and dislocations to his entire body but was conscious at the scene. The report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The point of impact was the center front end of both vehicles. The e-scooter driver was not ejected and wore no safety equipment. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and speeding in Queens, resulting in serious injury to a vulnerable road user.
Queens Sedan Hits Pedestrian Walking Highway▸A 55-year-old woman walking along a Queens highway was struck by a northbound sedan. The impact hit her elbow and lower arm, causing bruising. The driver’s vehicle suffered damage to the left side doors. The pedestrian remained conscious.
According to the police report, a 55-year-old female pedestrian was injured while walking along a highway in Queens. She suffered contusions to her elbow and lower arm after being struck by a northbound sedan. The sedan’s left side doors were damaged on impact. The report lists no contributing factors or driver errors such as failure to yield or speeding. The pedestrian was conscious and injured but not ejected. No safety equipment or helmet was noted. The crash occurred near 30-57 70 Street. The driver was licensed and driving straight ahead at the time of collision.
SUV Slams Into Stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard▸A trailing SUV crashed into a stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard. The driver in back, age 61, suffered back pain and whiplash. Police cited following too closely and unsafe speed. Both vehicles showed heavy damage.
According to the police report, a 61-year-old man driving a Jeep SUV rear-ended a stopped Honda SUV on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The trailing driver was injured, reporting back pain and whiplash. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The Jeep was slowing or stopping before impact, while the Honda was stopped in traffic. Both vehicles sustained significant front and rear damage. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
Jessica Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Alternatives▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. Two new bus routes will replace it. Jessica Ramos cheered the move. The AirTrain’s high price and twisted route drew fire. Buses promise faster, cheaper, cleaner rides for millions. Queens riders win. Cars lose.
""This is the right move. My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was. I’m so proud of East Elmhurst for standing up to this bad plan. We still have to look at how to expand transit to those parts of Queens, especially if the proposed football stadium is going to be building what effectively is a new neighborhood in Queens. The 7 alone won’t be able to handle it."" -- Jessica Ramos
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project after an expert panel review. The panel found the $2-billion monorail would not outperform improved bus service. Instead, two new bus routes will serve the airport: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a new non-stop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard using electric buses and transit signal priority. The total cost is about $500 million, far less than any rail option. State Senator Jessica Ramos, district 13, praised the decision, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' The AirTrain faced mounting opposition for its cost, indirect route, and lack of transparency. The new bus plan aims to serve millions of riders annually and can be implemented within two to five years.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2023-03-13
Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Over AirTrain▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. She chose faster, cheaper bus routes instead. The new plan brings electric buses, dedicated lanes, and direct service. Advocates cheered. Queens riders win. The AirTrain dies. Buses roll on.
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul and the Port Authority canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project. The decision followed an expert panel review, which found the $2 billion monorail would not outperform expanded bus service. Instead, the panel recommended two new bus routes: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a nonstop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard to all LaGuardia terminals, using electric buses and transit signal priority. The matter summary states: 'Gov. Hochul and the Port Authority have canceled the controversial Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project, opting instead for two new, improved bus connections to the airport.' State Senator Jessica Ramos welcomed the move, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' Advocates and elected officials praised the shift, though some called for even stronger bus priority and further transit expansion in Queens.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-13
Jessica Ramos Urges Safety Education Opposes E-Bike Bans▸State senators pressed DOTs to fight e-bike stigma and protect riders. They called for education, better battery rules, and fair treatment for delivery workers. City Hall’s inaction leaves e-bike users exposed. Bans loom while agencies stall. Vulnerable riders pay the price.
On March 2, 2023, State Sen. Jessica Ramos and colleagues sent a letter to city and state DOTs urging action against the 'demonization' of e-bikes and e-scooters. The letter, signed by Ramos and State Sen. Liz Krueger, demanded more education on safe riding and battery use, warning, 'We cannot allow a narrative to build against a vital, green, and growing mode of transportation.' Ramos criticized City Hall for failing to post speed limits and design streets for e-mobility. Krueger backed battery safety bills, while Councilman Bob Holden pushed for outright bans, citing deaths and injuries. The senators warned that inaction could lead to blanket bans, hitting delivery workers hardest. The city’s plan for safe charging hubs faces local opposition. DOT claims a 'holistic approach,' but vulnerable riders remain at risk as agencies drag their feet.
-
State Pols Call on DOTs to Counter E-Bike ‘Demonization’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-10
SUV Rear-Ends Another on Astoria Boulevard▸Two SUVs collided on Astoria Boulevard. One driver struck from behind. Neck injury and whiplash followed. Police cited traffic control disregard and tailgating. Metal twisted. Danger clear.
According to the police report, two SUVs crashed on Astoria Boulevard. The rear SUV, driven by a 46-year-old woman, hit the back of another SUV that was slowing or stopping. She suffered neck pain and whiplash but remained conscious and was not ejected. Police listed "Traffic Control Disregarded" and "Following Too Closely" as contributing factors. The rear SUV's right front bumper and the front SUV's left rear bumper were damaged. No other injuries or contributing factors were reported.
2SUV Strikes Van on 88 Street Queens▸A 68-year-old male driver and a 49-year-old female passenger were injured in a Queens crash. The SUV hit the van’s right front bumper. Traffic control devices were not working properly. Both occupants suffered internal injuries and remained conscious.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on 88 Street in Queens when a 2022 SUV traveling east struck a 2014 van traveling south. The van was hit on its right front bumper, causing injuries to its two occupants: a 68-year-old male driver with chest injuries and a 49-year-old female front passenger with head injuries. Both were conscious but suffered internal injuries, with the passenger trapped in the vehicle. The report lists "Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working" as contributing factors. No driver errors were specified. The van was damaged on its right front quarter panel, and the SUV sustained damage to its left side doors. Neither occupant was ejected.
Moped Hits Pedestrian Working in Queens▸A moped struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian working in the roadway at 93-21 37 Avenue, Queens. The pedestrian suffered knee and lower leg bruises. Police cited aggressive driving and unsafe speed as contributing factors. The moped showed no damage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling west on 93-21 37 Avenue in Queens struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian who was working in the roadway at an intersection. The pedestrian sustained contusions and bruises to her knee and lower leg and remained conscious after the collision. The report lists aggressive driving and unsafe speed as the primary contributing factors to the crash. The moped was going straight ahead and impacted the pedestrian with its center front end but showed no vehicle damage. No other factors such as helmet use or pedestrian error were noted in the report.
González-Rojas Opposes State Underfunding of MTA Safety‑Harming Budget▸Governor Hochul’s budget dodges state duty. City pays more, gets less. Riders face fare hikes, no better service. State hoards surplus, starves transit. Lawmakers protest. Suburbs dodge taxes. The city shoulders the load. Riders pay the price. Streets stay dangerous.
Governor Hochul’s 2023 state budget proposal, analyzed March 3, 2023, keeps New York State’s long-running refusal to match MTA funding under law 18-b. The budget, now under legislative review, forces New York City to cover a $500 million gap, while the state sits on an $8.7 billion surplus. The matter: 'Hochul's budget not only asks city residents to cover the largest chunk of the MTA's budget gap, but does so in part by continuing long-running practices that essentially under-fund the MTA by millions of dollars each year.' Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and State Sen. Andrew Gounardes both object, demanding the state honor its legal obligations. Riders Alliance and Reinvent Albany condemn the austerity. With fare hikes looming and no service improvements, city transit riders—often pedestrians and cyclists—bear the brunt. The budget leaves vulnerable road users exposed, as transit stagnates and car dominance persists.
-
Analysis: Hochul Turns Her Back on Transit Riders With Her MTA Budget,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-03
A sedan and a pickup truck crashed on 34 Avenue. The sedan driver, a 72-year-old man, suffered back injuries. Both vehicles struck each other head-on and on the side. The driver ignored traffic controls, causing the collision.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on 34 Avenue involving a sedan and a pickup truck. The sedan driver, a 72-year-old man, was injured with back trauma but remained conscious and was wearing a lap belt. The crash involved impact to the sedan's center front end and the truck's left side doors. The report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' and 'Other Vehicular' as contributing factors, indicating driver errors related to ignoring traffic signals or signs. No other injuries or victims were reported. The driver was licensed and operating the vehicle going straight ahead at the time of impact.
Speeding Sedan Rear-Ends SUV on Parkway▸A sedan, moving too fast, smashed into an SUV’s rear on Grand Central Parkway near midnight. Metal twisted. A woman in the front seat bled from the head, semiconscious. The crash left the night scarred and silent.
A 2010 Infiniti sedan, traveling at unsafe speed, slammed into the rear of a KIA SUV on Grand Central Parkway just before midnight. According to the police report, 'A 2010 Infiniti sedan, speeding west, slammed into the rear of a KIA SUV. Metal crumpled. A 46-year-old woman, belted in the front seat, bled from the head. Semiconscious.' The woman, a front-seat passenger, suffered severe head bleeding and was semiconscious at the scene. Both vehicles were demolished. The police report lists 'Unsafe Speed' as the contributing factor. No other driver errors or contributing factors are noted in the data.
6Queens Multi-Passenger Sedan Crash Injures Six▸Two sedans collided in Queens at 34-34 77 Street. One car carried five passengers and a driver. All six suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Police cited unsafe speed as the cause. No one was ejected. All were conscious after the crash.
According to the police report, a collision occurred in Queens involving two sedans. One vehicle was carrying six occupants: a 44-year-old male driver and five passengers aged 13 to 49. All occupants sustained neck injuries and complained of whiplash. The report lists unsafe speed as the contributing factor to the crash. The driver of the sedan with occupants was licensed in New York. None of the occupants were ejected from the vehicle, and all remained conscious. The crash caused damage to the left rear quarter panel and left side doors of the parked vehicles involved. The police report does not list any contributing factors related to the passengers or safety equipment.
Sedan Strikes Pedestrian Crossing Queens Intersection▸A 59-year-old man was injured crossing 25 Avenue at a marked crosswalk in Queens. The sedan, making a left turn, hit him with its front center. Lighting defects contributed. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries but remained conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling northwest on 25 Avenue in Queens struck a 59-year-old male pedestrian crossing at a marked crosswalk without a signal. The driver was making a left turn when the collision occurred, impacting the pedestrian with the vehicle's center front end. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to the knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3, and remained conscious. The report lists 'Other Lighting Defects' as a contributing factor to the crash. No driver errors such as failure to yield or speeding were specified. The vehicle showed no damage. The pedestrian's crossing action and location were noted, but no safety equipment or signals were involved.
Sedan Swerves, Driver Killed, Passenger Hurt▸A sedan veered on Grand Central Parkway. Metal twisted. The driver, twenty, died at the wheel. His head crushed. A passenger, same age, hurt and conscious. An SUV lay wrecked. The road stayed silent after the crash.
A deadly crash struck Grand Central Parkway near 40.767765°N, 73.86499°W. According to the police report, a 20-year-old man driving a sedan swerved in reaction to an uninvolved vehicle. His car crumpled. He suffered fatal head injuries and died at the scene. A 20-year-old male passenger was injured, reporting pain and nausea but remained conscious. An SUV was also demolished in the collision. The police report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the main contributing factor. The driver was not wearing any safety equipment. No other driver errors or contributing factors are noted in the report.
Unlicensed Moped Hits Taxi Turning Left▸A moped driver without a license struck a taxi making a left turn on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The moped driver was ejected and suffered bruises and injuries to the entire body. The crash involved improper turning and lane usage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling westbound collided with a taxi making a left turn eastbound on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The moped driver, unlicensed and riding without safety equipment, was ejected and sustained contusions and injuries to the entire body. The taxi driver was licensed and driving with one occupant. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors. The point of impact was the taxi's right rear bumper and the moped's center front end. The moped driver was conscious but injured. No pedestrian was involved.
Krishnan Supports Safety Boosting Local Speed Limit Control▸Council Member Lincoln Restler joined advocates at City Hall. They pressed Albany to let New York City set its own speed limits. Families mourned children lost to speeding drivers. The Assembly remains the last barrier. The push is urgent. Lives hang in the balance.
On March 29, 2023, Council Member Lincoln Restler and other city officials rallied for Sammy’s Law, a bill allowing New York City to set its own speed limits without state approval. The bill, named for Sammy Cohen Eckstein, killed by a speeding driver in 2013, would let the city lower limits to 20 mph. The matter, described as 'Let New York City lower its own speed limits,' has strong support from the mayor, DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez, and advocates like Families for Safe Streets. Restler’s action was public advocacy. The Assembly is the final hurdle; the bill is already in the governor’s and Senate’s budgets. Advocates cite a 36% drop in pedestrian deaths after the 2014 speed limit change. Families demand action to prevent more deaths.
-
City polls, advocates call on Assembly to let NYC set its own speed limits,
amny.com,
Published 2023-03-29
S 4647Ramos votes yes on highway worker safety bill, overall safety unchanged.▸Senate passes S 4647. Bill hikes penalties for endangering highway workers. It funds more enforcement. It pushes work zone safety awareness. Lawmakers move to protect workers from reckless drivers.
Senate bill S 4647, titled "Increases penalties for endangerment of a highway worker, promotes work zone safety awareness, and establishes a fund for additional work zone safety enforcement," advanced through committee on April 15, 2024. Sponsored by Timothy M. Kennedy, with Joseph P. Addabbo Jr., Pamela Helming, Mario Mattera, Robert Rolison, and James Skoufis as co-sponsors, the bill passed multiple Senate votes. The measure targets drivers who endanger highway workers, boosts safety awareness, and funds enforcement. The bill aims to curb driver recklessness in work zones, where danger is high and impact is deadly.
-
File S 4647,
Open States,
Published 2023-03-21
S 775Ramos votes yes to expand ignition interlock monitoring, boosting road safety.▸Senate backs S 775. The bill defines the ignition interlock monitor’s job. It forces offenders to install devices and obey court orders. Lawmakers act to keep repeat drunk drivers off the street.
Senate bill S 775, titled "Relates to the responsibilities of an ignition interlock monitor," passed committee votes on February 1, March 21, and May 16, 2023. The bill describes the monitor’s role and mandates compliance for those ordered to install ignition interlock devices. Primary sponsor Jeremy Cooney (District 56) led, joined by Nathalia Fernandez, Monica Martinez, and Shelley Mayer. The measure saw broad support, with senators voting yes across multiple sessions. The law aims to keep drivers with violations from endangering others by enforcing strict compliance with court-ordered ignition interlocks.
-
File S 775,
Open States,
Published 2023-03-21
Distracted Driver Crashes Into E-Scooter Rider▸A 28-year-old man on an e-scooter suffered severe injuries after a collision on 31 Avenue in Queens. The driver, distracted and speeding, struck the scooter head-on. The rider fractured and dislocated parts of his body, remaining conscious but badly hurt.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on 31 Avenue in Queens involving an e-scooter and another vehicle. The e-scooter driver, a 28-year-old male, was injured with fractures and dislocations to his entire body but was conscious at the scene. The report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The point of impact was the center front end of both vehicles. The e-scooter driver was not ejected and wore no safety equipment. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and speeding in Queens, resulting in serious injury to a vulnerable road user.
Queens Sedan Hits Pedestrian Walking Highway▸A 55-year-old woman walking along a Queens highway was struck by a northbound sedan. The impact hit her elbow and lower arm, causing bruising. The driver’s vehicle suffered damage to the left side doors. The pedestrian remained conscious.
According to the police report, a 55-year-old female pedestrian was injured while walking along a highway in Queens. She suffered contusions to her elbow and lower arm after being struck by a northbound sedan. The sedan’s left side doors were damaged on impact. The report lists no contributing factors or driver errors such as failure to yield or speeding. The pedestrian was conscious and injured but not ejected. No safety equipment or helmet was noted. The crash occurred near 30-57 70 Street. The driver was licensed and driving straight ahead at the time of collision.
SUV Slams Into Stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard▸A trailing SUV crashed into a stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard. The driver in back, age 61, suffered back pain and whiplash. Police cited following too closely and unsafe speed. Both vehicles showed heavy damage.
According to the police report, a 61-year-old man driving a Jeep SUV rear-ended a stopped Honda SUV on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The trailing driver was injured, reporting back pain and whiplash. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The Jeep was slowing or stopping before impact, while the Honda was stopped in traffic. Both vehicles sustained significant front and rear damage. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
Jessica Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Alternatives▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. Two new bus routes will replace it. Jessica Ramos cheered the move. The AirTrain’s high price and twisted route drew fire. Buses promise faster, cheaper, cleaner rides for millions. Queens riders win. Cars lose.
""This is the right move. My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was. I’m so proud of East Elmhurst for standing up to this bad plan. We still have to look at how to expand transit to those parts of Queens, especially if the proposed football stadium is going to be building what effectively is a new neighborhood in Queens. The 7 alone won’t be able to handle it."" -- Jessica Ramos
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project after an expert panel review. The panel found the $2-billion monorail would not outperform improved bus service. Instead, two new bus routes will serve the airport: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a new non-stop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard using electric buses and transit signal priority. The total cost is about $500 million, far less than any rail option. State Senator Jessica Ramos, district 13, praised the decision, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' The AirTrain faced mounting opposition for its cost, indirect route, and lack of transparency. The new bus plan aims to serve millions of riders annually and can be implemented within two to five years.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2023-03-13
Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Over AirTrain▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. She chose faster, cheaper bus routes instead. The new plan brings electric buses, dedicated lanes, and direct service. Advocates cheered. Queens riders win. The AirTrain dies. Buses roll on.
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul and the Port Authority canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project. The decision followed an expert panel review, which found the $2 billion monorail would not outperform expanded bus service. Instead, the panel recommended two new bus routes: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a nonstop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard to all LaGuardia terminals, using electric buses and transit signal priority. The matter summary states: 'Gov. Hochul and the Port Authority have canceled the controversial Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project, opting instead for two new, improved bus connections to the airport.' State Senator Jessica Ramos welcomed the move, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' Advocates and elected officials praised the shift, though some called for even stronger bus priority and further transit expansion in Queens.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-13
Jessica Ramos Urges Safety Education Opposes E-Bike Bans▸State senators pressed DOTs to fight e-bike stigma and protect riders. They called for education, better battery rules, and fair treatment for delivery workers. City Hall’s inaction leaves e-bike users exposed. Bans loom while agencies stall. Vulnerable riders pay the price.
On March 2, 2023, State Sen. Jessica Ramos and colleagues sent a letter to city and state DOTs urging action against the 'demonization' of e-bikes and e-scooters. The letter, signed by Ramos and State Sen. Liz Krueger, demanded more education on safe riding and battery use, warning, 'We cannot allow a narrative to build against a vital, green, and growing mode of transportation.' Ramos criticized City Hall for failing to post speed limits and design streets for e-mobility. Krueger backed battery safety bills, while Councilman Bob Holden pushed for outright bans, citing deaths and injuries. The senators warned that inaction could lead to blanket bans, hitting delivery workers hardest. The city’s plan for safe charging hubs faces local opposition. DOT claims a 'holistic approach,' but vulnerable riders remain at risk as agencies drag their feet.
-
State Pols Call on DOTs to Counter E-Bike ‘Demonization’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-10
SUV Rear-Ends Another on Astoria Boulevard▸Two SUVs collided on Astoria Boulevard. One driver struck from behind. Neck injury and whiplash followed. Police cited traffic control disregard and tailgating. Metal twisted. Danger clear.
According to the police report, two SUVs crashed on Astoria Boulevard. The rear SUV, driven by a 46-year-old woman, hit the back of another SUV that was slowing or stopping. She suffered neck pain and whiplash but remained conscious and was not ejected. Police listed "Traffic Control Disregarded" and "Following Too Closely" as contributing factors. The rear SUV's right front bumper and the front SUV's left rear bumper were damaged. No other injuries or contributing factors were reported.
2SUV Strikes Van on 88 Street Queens▸A 68-year-old male driver and a 49-year-old female passenger were injured in a Queens crash. The SUV hit the van’s right front bumper. Traffic control devices were not working properly. Both occupants suffered internal injuries and remained conscious.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on 88 Street in Queens when a 2022 SUV traveling east struck a 2014 van traveling south. The van was hit on its right front bumper, causing injuries to its two occupants: a 68-year-old male driver with chest injuries and a 49-year-old female front passenger with head injuries. Both were conscious but suffered internal injuries, with the passenger trapped in the vehicle. The report lists "Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working" as contributing factors. No driver errors were specified. The van was damaged on its right front quarter panel, and the SUV sustained damage to its left side doors. Neither occupant was ejected.
Moped Hits Pedestrian Working in Queens▸A moped struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian working in the roadway at 93-21 37 Avenue, Queens. The pedestrian suffered knee and lower leg bruises. Police cited aggressive driving and unsafe speed as contributing factors. The moped showed no damage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling west on 93-21 37 Avenue in Queens struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian who was working in the roadway at an intersection. The pedestrian sustained contusions and bruises to her knee and lower leg and remained conscious after the collision. The report lists aggressive driving and unsafe speed as the primary contributing factors to the crash. The moped was going straight ahead and impacted the pedestrian with its center front end but showed no vehicle damage. No other factors such as helmet use or pedestrian error were noted in the report.
González-Rojas Opposes State Underfunding of MTA Safety‑Harming Budget▸Governor Hochul’s budget dodges state duty. City pays more, gets less. Riders face fare hikes, no better service. State hoards surplus, starves transit. Lawmakers protest. Suburbs dodge taxes. The city shoulders the load. Riders pay the price. Streets stay dangerous.
Governor Hochul’s 2023 state budget proposal, analyzed March 3, 2023, keeps New York State’s long-running refusal to match MTA funding under law 18-b. The budget, now under legislative review, forces New York City to cover a $500 million gap, while the state sits on an $8.7 billion surplus. The matter: 'Hochul's budget not only asks city residents to cover the largest chunk of the MTA's budget gap, but does so in part by continuing long-running practices that essentially under-fund the MTA by millions of dollars each year.' Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and State Sen. Andrew Gounardes both object, demanding the state honor its legal obligations. Riders Alliance and Reinvent Albany condemn the austerity. With fare hikes looming and no service improvements, city transit riders—often pedestrians and cyclists—bear the brunt. The budget leaves vulnerable road users exposed, as transit stagnates and car dominance persists.
-
Analysis: Hochul Turns Her Back on Transit Riders With Her MTA Budget,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-03
A sedan, moving too fast, smashed into an SUV’s rear on Grand Central Parkway near midnight. Metal twisted. A woman in the front seat bled from the head, semiconscious. The crash left the night scarred and silent.
A 2010 Infiniti sedan, traveling at unsafe speed, slammed into the rear of a KIA SUV on Grand Central Parkway just before midnight. According to the police report, 'A 2010 Infiniti sedan, speeding west, slammed into the rear of a KIA SUV. Metal crumpled. A 46-year-old woman, belted in the front seat, bled from the head. Semiconscious.' The woman, a front-seat passenger, suffered severe head bleeding and was semiconscious at the scene. Both vehicles were demolished. The police report lists 'Unsafe Speed' as the contributing factor. No other driver errors or contributing factors are noted in the data.
6Queens Multi-Passenger Sedan Crash Injures Six▸Two sedans collided in Queens at 34-34 77 Street. One car carried five passengers and a driver. All six suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Police cited unsafe speed as the cause. No one was ejected. All were conscious after the crash.
According to the police report, a collision occurred in Queens involving two sedans. One vehicle was carrying six occupants: a 44-year-old male driver and five passengers aged 13 to 49. All occupants sustained neck injuries and complained of whiplash. The report lists unsafe speed as the contributing factor to the crash. The driver of the sedan with occupants was licensed in New York. None of the occupants were ejected from the vehicle, and all remained conscious. The crash caused damage to the left rear quarter panel and left side doors of the parked vehicles involved. The police report does not list any contributing factors related to the passengers or safety equipment.
Sedan Strikes Pedestrian Crossing Queens Intersection▸A 59-year-old man was injured crossing 25 Avenue at a marked crosswalk in Queens. The sedan, making a left turn, hit him with its front center. Lighting defects contributed. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries but remained conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling northwest on 25 Avenue in Queens struck a 59-year-old male pedestrian crossing at a marked crosswalk without a signal. The driver was making a left turn when the collision occurred, impacting the pedestrian with the vehicle's center front end. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to the knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3, and remained conscious. The report lists 'Other Lighting Defects' as a contributing factor to the crash. No driver errors such as failure to yield or speeding were specified. The vehicle showed no damage. The pedestrian's crossing action and location were noted, but no safety equipment or signals were involved.
Sedan Swerves, Driver Killed, Passenger Hurt▸A sedan veered on Grand Central Parkway. Metal twisted. The driver, twenty, died at the wheel. His head crushed. A passenger, same age, hurt and conscious. An SUV lay wrecked. The road stayed silent after the crash.
A deadly crash struck Grand Central Parkway near 40.767765°N, 73.86499°W. According to the police report, a 20-year-old man driving a sedan swerved in reaction to an uninvolved vehicle. His car crumpled. He suffered fatal head injuries and died at the scene. A 20-year-old male passenger was injured, reporting pain and nausea but remained conscious. An SUV was also demolished in the collision. The police report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the main contributing factor. The driver was not wearing any safety equipment. No other driver errors or contributing factors are noted in the report.
Unlicensed Moped Hits Taxi Turning Left▸A moped driver without a license struck a taxi making a left turn on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The moped driver was ejected and suffered bruises and injuries to the entire body. The crash involved improper turning and lane usage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling westbound collided with a taxi making a left turn eastbound on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The moped driver, unlicensed and riding without safety equipment, was ejected and sustained contusions and injuries to the entire body. The taxi driver was licensed and driving with one occupant. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors. The point of impact was the taxi's right rear bumper and the moped's center front end. The moped driver was conscious but injured. No pedestrian was involved.
Krishnan Supports Safety Boosting Local Speed Limit Control▸Council Member Lincoln Restler joined advocates at City Hall. They pressed Albany to let New York City set its own speed limits. Families mourned children lost to speeding drivers. The Assembly remains the last barrier. The push is urgent. Lives hang in the balance.
On March 29, 2023, Council Member Lincoln Restler and other city officials rallied for Sammy’s Law, a bill allowing New York City to set its own speed limits without state approval. The bill, named for Sammy Cohen Eckstein, killed by a speeding driver in 2013, would let the city lower limits to 20 mph. The matter, described as 'Let New York City lower its own speed limits,' has strong support from the mayor, DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez, and advocates like Families for Safe Streets. Restler’s action was public advocacy. The Assembly is the final hurdle; the bill is already in the governor’s and Senate’s budgets. Advocates cite a 36% drop in pedestrian deaths after the 2014 speed limit change. Families demand action to prevent more deaths.
-
City polls, advocates call on Assembly to let NYC set its own speed limits,
amny.com,
Published 2023-03-29
S 4647Ramos votes yes on highway worker safety bill, overall safety unchanged.▸Senate passes S 4647. Bill hikes penalties for endangering highway workers. It funds more enforcement. It pushes work zone safety awareness. Lawmakers move to protect workers from reckless drivers.
Senate bill S 4647, titled "Increases penalties for endangerment of a highway worker, promotes work zone safety awareness, and establishes a fund for additional work zone safety enforcement," advanced through committee on April 15, 2024. Sponsored by Timothy M. Kennedy, with Joseph P. Addabbo Jr., Pamela Helming, Mario Mattera, Robert Rolison, and James Skoufis as co-sponsors, the bill passed multiple Senate votes. The measure targets drivers who endanger highway workers, boosts safety awareness, and funds enforcement. The bill aims to curb driver recklessness in work zones, where danger is high and impact is deadly.
-
File S 4647,
Open States,
Published 2023-03-21
S 775Ramos votes yes to expand ignition interlock monitoring, boosting road safety.▸Senate backs S 775. The bill defines the ignition interlock monitor’s job. It forces offenders to install devices and obey court orders. Lawmakers act to keep repeat drunk drivers off the street.
Senate bill S 775, titled "Relates to the responsibilities of an ignition interlock monitor," passed committee votes on February 1, March 21, and May 16, 2023. The bill describes the monitor’s role and mandates compliance for those ordered to install ignition interlock devices. Primary sponsor Jeremy Cooney (District 56) led, joined by Nathalia Fernandez, Monica Martinez, and Shelley Mayer. The measure saw broad support, with senators voting yes across multiple sessions. The law aims to keep drivers with violations from endangering others by enforcing strict compliance with court-ordered ignition interlocks.
-
File S 775,
Open States,
Published 2023-03-21
Distracted Driver Crashes Into E-Scooter Rider▸A 28-year-old man on an e-scooter suffered severe injuries after a collision on 31 Avenue in Queens. The driver, distracted and speeding, struck the scooter head-on. The rider fractured and dislocated parts of his body, remaining conscious but badly hurt.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on 31 Avenue in Queens involving an e-scooter and another vehicle. The e-scooter driver, a 28-year-old male, was injured with fractures and dislocations to his entire body but was conscious at the scene. The report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The point of impact was the center front end of both vehicles. The e-scooter driver was not ejected and wore no safety equipment. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and speeding in Queens, resulting in serious injury to a vulnerable road user.
Queens Sedan Hits Pedestrian Walking Highway▸A 55-year-old woman walking along a Queens highway was struck by a northbound sedan. The impact hit her elbow and lower arm, causing bruising. The driver’s vehicle suffered damage to the left side doors. The pedestrian remained conscious.
According to the police report, a 55-year-old female pedestrian was injured while walking along a highway in Queens. She suffered contusions to her elbow and lower arm after being struck by a northbound sedan. The sedan’s left side doors were damaged on impact. The report lists no contributing factors or driver errors such as failure to yield or speeding. The pedestrian was conscious and injured but not ejected. No safety equipment or helmet was noted. The crash occurred near 30-57 70 Street. The driver was licensed and driving straight ahead at the time of collision.
SUV Slams Into Stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard▸A trailing SUV crashed into a stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard. The driver in back, age 61, suffered back pain and whiplash. Police cited following too closely and unsafe speed. Both vehicles showed heavy damage.
According to the police report, a 61-year-old man driving a Jeep SUV rear-ended a stopped Honda SUV on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The trailing driver was injured, reporting back pain and whiplash. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The Jeep was slowing or stopping before impact, while the Honda was stopped in traffic. Both vehicles sustained significant front and rear damage. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
Jessica Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Alternatives▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. Two new bus routes will replace it. Jessica Ramos cheered the move. The AirTrain’s high price and twisted route drew fire. Buses promise faster, cheaper, cleaner rides for millions. Queens riders win. Cars lose.
""This is the right move. My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was. I’m so proud of East Elmhurst for standing up to this bad plan. We still have to look at how to expand transit to those parts of Queens, especially if the proposed football stadium is going to be building what effectively is a new neighborhood in Queens. The 7 alone won’t be able to handle it."" -- Jessica Ramos
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project after an expert panel review. The panel found the $2-billion monorail would not outperform improved bus service. Instead, two new bus routes will serve the airport: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a new non-stop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard using electric buses and transit signal priority. The total cost is about $500 million, far less than any rail option. State Senator Jessica Ramos, district 13, praised the decision, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' The AirTrain faced mounting opposition for its cost, indirect route, and lack of transparency. The new bus plan aims to serve millions of riders annually and can be implemented within two to five years.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2023-03-13
Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Over AirTrain▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. She chose faster, cheaper bus routes instead. The new plan brings electric buses, dedicated lanes, and direct service. Advocates cheered. Queens riders win. The AirTrain dies. Buses roll on.
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul and the Port Authority canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project. The decision followed an expert panel review, which found the $2 billion monorail would not outperform expanded bus service. Instead, the panel recommended two new bus routes: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a nonstop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard to all LaGuardia terminals, using electric buses and transit signal priority. The matter summary states: 'Gov. Hochul and the Port Authority have canceled the controversial Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project, opting instead for two new, improved bus connections to the airport.' State Senator Jessica Ramos welcomed the move, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' Advocates and elected officials praised the shift, though some called for even stronger bus priority and further transit expansion in Queens.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-13
Jessica Ramos Urges Safety Education Opposes E-Bike Bans▸State senators pressed DOTs to fight e-bike stigma and protect riders. They called for education, better battery rules, and fair treatment for delivery workers. City Hall’s inaction leaves e-bike users exposed. Bans loom while agencies stall. Vulnerable riders pay the price.
On March 2, 2023, State Sen. Jessica Ramos and colleagues sent a letter to city and state DOTs urging action against the 'demonization' of e-bikes and e-scooters. The letter, signed by Ramos and State Sen. Liz Krueger, demanded more education on safe riding and battery use, warning, 'We cannot allow a narrative to build against a vital, green, and growing mode of transportation.' Ramos criticized City Hall for failing to post speed limits and design streets for e-mobility. Krueger backed battery safety bills, while Councilman Bob Holden pushed for outright bans, citing deaths and injuries. The senators warned that inaction could lead to blanket bans, hitting delivery workers hardest. The city’s plan for safe charging hubs faces local opposition. DOT claims a 'holistic approach,' but vulnerable riders remain at risk as agencies drag their feet.
-
State Pols Call on DOTs to Counter E-Bike ‘Demonization’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-10
SUV Rear-Ends Another on Astoria Boulevard▸Two SUVs collided on Astoria Boulevard. One driver struck from behind. Neck injury and whiplash followed. Police cited traffic control disregard and tailgating. Metal twisted. Danger clear.
According to the police report, two SUVs crashed on Astoria Boulevard. The rear SUV, driven by a 46-year-old woman, hit the back of another SUV that was slowing or stopping. She suffered neck pain and whiplash but remained conscious and was not ejected. Police listed "Traffic Control Disregarded" and "Following Too Closely" as contributing factors. The rear SUV's right front bumper and the front SUV's left rear bumper were damaged. No other injuries or contributing factors were reported.
2SUV Strikes Van on 88 Street Queens▸A 68-year-old male driver and a 49-year-old female passenger were injured in a Queens crash. The SUV hit the van’s right front bumper. Traffic control devices were not working properly. Both occupants suffered internal injuries and remained conscious.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on 88 Street in Queens when a 2022 SUV traveling east struck a 2014 van traveling south. The van was hit on its right front bumper, causing injuries to its two occupants: a 68-year-old male driver with chest injuries and a 49-year-old female front passenger with head injuries. Both were conscious but suffered internal injuries, with the passenger trapped in the vehicle. The report lists "Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working" as contributing factors. No driver errors were specified. The van was damaged on its right front quarter panel, and the SUV sustained damage to its left side doors. Neither occupant was ejected.
Moped Hits Pedestrian Working in Queens▸A moped struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian working in the roadway at 93-21 37 Avenue, Queens. The pedestrian suffered knee and lower leg bruises. Police cited aggressive driving and unsafe speed as contributing factors. The moped showed no damage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling west on 93-21 37 Avenue in Queens struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian who was working in the roadway at an intersection. The pedestrian sustained contusions and bruises to her knee and lower leg and remained conscious after the collision. The report lists aggressive driving and unsafe speed as the primary contributing factors to the crash. The moped was going straight ahead and impacted the pedestrian with its center front end but showed no vehicle damage. No other factors such as helmet use or pedestrian error were noted in the report.
González-Rojas Opposes State Underfunding of MTA Safety‑Harming Budget▸Governor Hochul’s budget dodges state duty. City pays more, gets less. Riders face fare hikes, no better service. State hoards surplus, starves transit. Lawmakers protest. Suburbs dodge taxes. The city shoulders the load. Riders pay the price. Streets stay dangerous.
Governor Hochul’s 2023 state budget proposal, analyzed March 3, 2023, keeps New York State’s long-running refusal to match MTA funding under law 18-b. The budget, now under legislative review, forces New York City to cover a $500 million gap, while the state sits on an $8.7 billion surplus. The matter: 'Hochul's budget not only asks city residents to cover the largest chunk of the MTA's budget gap, but does so in part by continuing long-running practices that essentially under-fund the MTA by millions of dollars each year.' Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and State Sen. Andrew Gounardes both object, demanding the state honor its legal obligations. Riders Alliance and Reinvent Albany condemn the austerity. With fare hikes looming and no service improvements, city transit riders—often pedestrians and cyclists—bear the brunt. The budget leaves vulnerable road users exposed, as transit stagnates and car dominance persists.
-
Analysis: Hochul Turns Her Back on Transit Riders With Her MTA Budget,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-03
Two sedans collided in Queens at 34-34 77 Street. One car carried five passengers and a driver. All six suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Police cited unsafe speed as the cause. No one was ejected. All were conscious after the crash.
According to the police report, a collision occurred in Queens involving two sedans. One vehicle was carrying six occupants: a 44-year-old male driver and five passengers aged 13 to 49. All occupants sustained neck injuries and complained of whiplash. The report lists unsafe speed as the contributing factor to the crash. The driver of the sedan with occupants was licensed in New York. None of the occupants were ejected from the vehicle, and all remained conscious. The crash caused damage to the left rear quarter panel and left side doors of the parked vehicles involved. The police report does not list any contributing factors related to the passengers or safety equipment.
Sedan Strikes Pedestrian Crossing Queens Intersection▸A 59-year-old man was injured crossing 25 Avenue at a marked crosswalk in Queens. The sedan, making a left turn, hit him with its front center. Lighting defects contributed. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries but remained conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling northwest on 25 Avenue in Queens struck a 59-year-old male pedestrian crossing at a marked crosswalk without a signal. The driver was making a left turn when the collision occurred, impacting the pedestrian with the vehicle's center front end. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to the knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3, and remained conscious. The report lists 'Other Lighting Defects' as a contributing factor to the crash. No driver errors such as failure to yield or speeding were specified. The vehicle showed no damage. The pedestrian's crossing action and location were noted, but no safety equipment or signals were involved.
Sedan Swerves, Driver Killed, Passenger Hurt▸A sedan veered on Grand Central Parkway. Metal twisted. The driver, twenty, died at the wheel. His head crushed. A passenger, same age, hurt and conscious. An SUV lay wrecked. The road stayed silent after the crash.
A deadly crash struck Grand Central Parkway near 40.767765°N, 73.86499°W. According to the police report, a 20-year-old man driving a sedan swerved in reaction to an uninvolved vehicle. His car crumpled. He suffered fatal head injuries and died at the scene. A 20-year-old male passenger was injured, reporting pain and nausea but remained conscious. An SUV was also demolished in the collision. The police report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the main contributing factor. The driver was not wearing any safety equipment. No other driver errors or contributing factors are noted in the report.
Unlicensed Moped Hits Taxi Turning Left▸A moped driver without a license struck a taxi making a left turn on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The moped driver was ejected and suffered bruises and injuries to the entire body. The crash involved improper turning and lane usage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling westbound collided with a taxi making a left turn eastbound on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The moped driver, unlicensed and riding without safety equipment, was ejected and sustained contusions and injuries to the entire body. The taxi driver was licensed and driving with one occupant. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors. The point of impact was the taxi's right rear bumper and the moped's center front end. The moped driver was conscious but injured. No pedestrian was involved.
Krishnan Supports Safety Boosting Local Speed Limit Control▸Council Member Lincoln Restler joined advocates at City Hall. They pressed Albany to let New York City set its own speed limits. Families mourned children lost to speeding drivers. The Assembly remains the last barrier. The push is urgent. Lives hang in the balance.
On March 29, 2023, Council Member Lincoln Restler and other city officials rallied for Sammy’s Law, a bill allowing New York City to set its own speed limits without state approval. The bill, named for Sammy Cohen Eckstein, killed by a speeding driver in 2013, would let the city lower limits to 20 mph. The matter, described as 'Let New York City lower its own speed limits,' has strong support from the mayor, DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez, and advocates like Families for Safe Streets. Restler’s action was public advocacy. The Assembly is the final hurdle; the bill is already in the governor’s and Senate’s budgets. Advocates cite a 36% drop in pedestrian deaths after the 2014 speed limit change. Families demand action to prevent more deaths.
-
City polls, advocates call on Assembly to let NYC set its own speed limits,
amny.com,
Published 2023-03-29
S 4647Ramos votes yes on highway worker safety bill, overall safety unchanged.▸Senate passes S 4647. Bill hikes penalties for endangering highway workers. It funds more enforcement. It pushes work zone safety awareness. Lawmakers move to protect workers from reckless drivers.
Senate bill S 4647, titled "Increases penalties for endangerment of a highway worker, promotes work zone safety awareness, and establishes a fund for additional work zone safety enforcement," advanced through committee on April 15, 2024. Sponsored by Timothy M. Kennedy, with Joseph P. Addabbo Jr., Pamela Helming, Mario Mattera, Robert Rolison, and James Skoufis as co-sponsors, the bill passed multiple Senate votes. The measure targets drivers who endanger highway workers, boosts safety awareness, and funds enforcement. The bill aims to curb driver recklessness in work zones, where danger is high and impact is deadly.
-
File S 4647,
Open States,
Published 2023-03-21
S 775Ramos votes yes to expand ignition interlock monitoring, boosting road safety.▸Senate backs S 775. The bill defines the ignition interlock monitor’s job. It forces offenders to install devices and obey court orders. Lawmakers act to keep repeat drunk drivers off the street.
Senate bill S 775, titled "Relates to the responsibilities of an ignition interlock monitor," passed committee votes on February 1, March 21, and May 16, 2023. The bill describes the monitor’s role and mandates compliance for those ordered to install ignition interlock devices. Primary sponsor Jeremy Cooney (District 56) led, joined by Nathalia Fernandez, Monica Martinez, and Shelley Mayer. The measure saw broad support, with senators voting yes across multiple sessions. The law aims to keep drivers with violations from endangering others by enforcing strict compliance with court-ordered ignition interlocks.
-
File S 775,
Open States,
Published 2023-03-21
Distracted Driver Crashes Into E-Scooter Rider▸A 28-year-old man on an e-scooter suffered severe injuries after a collision on 31 Avenue in Queens. The driver, distracted and speeding, struck the scooter head-on. The rider fractured and dislocated parts of his body, remaining conscious but badly hurt.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on 31 Avenue in Queens involving an e-scooter and another vehicle. The e-scooter driver, a 28-year-old male, was injured with fractures and dislocations to his entire body but was conscious at the scene. The report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The point of impact was the center front end of both vehicles. The e-scooter driver was not ejected and wore no safety equipment. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and speeding in Queens, resulting in serious injury to a vulnerable road user.
Queens Sedan Hits Pedestrian Walking Highway▸A 55-year-old woman walking along a Queens highway was struck by a northbound sedan. The impact hit her elbow and lower arm, causing bruising. The driver’s vehicle suffered damage to the left side doors. The pedestrian remained conscious.
According to the police report, a 55-year-old female pedestrian was injured while walking along a highway in Queens. She suffered contusions to her elbow and lower arm after being struck by a northbound sedan. The sedan’s left side doors were damaged on impact. The report lists no contributing factors or driver errors such as failure to yield or speeding. The pedestrian was conscious and injured but not ejected. No safety equipment or helmet was noted. The crash occurred near 30-57 70 Street. The driver was licensed and driving straight ahead at the time of collision.
SUV Slams Into Stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard▸A trailing SUV crashed into a stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard. The driver in back, age 61, suffered back pain and whiplash. Police cited following too closely and unsafe speed. Both vehicles showed heavy damage.
According to the police report, a 61-year-old man driving a Jeep SUV rear-ended a stopped Honda SUV on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The trailing driver was injured, reporting back pain and whiplash. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The Jeep was slowing or stopping before impact, while the Honda was stopped in traffic. Both vehicles sustained significant front and rear damage. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
Jessica Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Alternatives▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. Two new bus routes will replace it. Jessica Ramos cheered the move. The AirTrain’s high price and twisted route drew fire. Buses promise faster, cheaper, cleaner rides for millions. Queens riders win. Cars lose.
""This is the right move. My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was. I’m so proud of East Elmhurst for standing up to this bad plan. We still have to look at how to expand transit to those parts of Queens, especially if the proposed football stadium is going to be building what effectively is a new neighborhood in Queens. The 7 alone won’t be able to handle it."" -- Jessica Ramos
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project after an expert panel review. The panel found the $2-billion monorail would not outperform improved bus service. Instead, two new bus routes will serve the airport: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a new non-stop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard using electric buses and transit signal priority. The total cost is about $500 million, far less than any rail option. State Senator Jessica Ramos, district 13, praised the decision, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' The AirTrain faced mounting opposition for its cost, indirect route, and lack of transparency. The new bus plan aims to serve millions of riders annually and can be implemented within two to five years.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2023-03-13
Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Over AirTrain▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. She chose faster, cheaper bus routes instead. The new plan brings electric buses, dedicated lanes, and direct service. Advocates cheered. Queens riders win. The AirTrain dies. Buses roll on.
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul and the Port Authority canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project. The decision followed an expert panel review, which found the $2 billion monorail would not outperform expanded bus service. Instead, the panel recommended two new bus routes: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a nonstop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard to all LaGuardia terminals, using electric buses and transit signal priority. The matter summary states: 'Gov. Hochul and the Port Authority have canceled the controversial Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project, opting instead for two new, improved bus connections to the airport.' State Senator Jessica Ramos welcomed the move, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' Advocates and elected officials praised the shift, though some called for even stronger bus priority and further transit expansion in Queens.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-13
Jessica Ramos Urges Safety Education Opposes E-Bike Bans▸State senators pressed DOTs to fight e-bike stigma and protect riders. They called for education, better battery rules, and fair treatment for delivery workers. City Hall’s inaction leaves e-bike users exposed. Bans loom while agencies stall. Vulnerable riders pay the price.
On March 2, 2023, State Sen. Jessica Ramos and colleagues sent a letter to city and state DOTs urging action against the 'demonization' of e-bikes and e-scooters. The letter, signed by Ramos and State Sen. Liz Krueger, demanded more education on safe riding and battery use, warning, 'We cannot allow a narrative to build against a vital, green, and growing mode of transportation.' Ramos criticized City Hall for failing to post speed limits and design streets for e-mobility. Krueger backed battery safety bills, while Councilman Bob Holden pushed for outright bans, citing deaths and injuries. The senators warned that inaction could lead to blanket bans, hitting delivery workers hardest. The city’s plan for safe charging hubs faces local opposition. DOT claims a 'holistic approach,' but vulnerable riders remain at risk as agencies drag their feet.
-
State Pols Call on DOTs to Counter E-Bike ‘Demonization’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-10
SUV Rear-Ends Another on Astoria Boulevard▸Two SUVs collided on Astoria Boulevard. One driver struck from behind. Neck injury and whiplash followed. Police cited traffic control disregard and tailgating. Metal twisted. Danger clear.
According to the police report, two SUVs crashed on Astoria Boulevard. The rear SUV, driven by a 46-year-old woman, hit the back of another SUV that was slowing or stopping. She suffered neck pain and whiplash but remained conscious and was not ejected. Police listed "Traffic Control Disregarded" and "Following Too Closely" as contributing factors. The rear SUV's right front bumper and the front SUV's left rear bumper were damaged. No other injuries or contributing factors were reported.
2SUV Strikes Van on 88 Street Queens▸A 68-year-old male driver and a 49-year-old female passenger were injured in a Queens crash. The SUV hit the van’s right front bumper. Traffic control devices were not working properly. Both occupants suffered internal injuries and remained conscious.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on 88 Street in Queens when a 2022 SUV traveling east struck a 2014 van traveling south. The van was hit on its right front bumper, causing injuries to its two occupants: a 68-year-old male driver with chest injuries and a 49-year-old female front passenger with head injuries. Both were conscious but suffered internal injuries, with the passenger trapped in the vehicle. The report lists "Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working" as contributing factors. No driver errors were specified. The van was damaged on its right front quarter panel, and the SUV sustained damage to its left side doors. Neither occupant was ejected.
Moped Hits Pedestrian Working in Queens▸A moped struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian working in the roadway at 93-21 37 Avenue, Queens. The pedestrian suffered knee and lower leg bruises. Police cited aggressive driving and unsafe speed as contributing factors. The moped showed no damage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling west on 93-21 37 Avenue in Queens struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian who was working in the roadway at an intersection. The pedestrian sustained contusions and bruises to her knee and lower leg and remained conscious after the collision. The report lists aggressive driving and unsafe speed as the primary contributing factors to the crash. The moped was going straight ahead and impacted the pedestrian with its center front end but showed no vehicle damage. No other factors such as helmet use or pedestrian error were noted in the report.
González-Rojas Opposes State Underfunding of MTA Safety‑Harming Budget▸Governor Hochul’s budget dodges state duty. City pays more, gets less. Riders face fare hikes, no better service. State hoards surplus, starves transit. Lawmakers protest. Suburbs dodge taxes. The city shoulders the load. Riders pay the price. Streets stay dangerous.
Governor Hochul’s 2023 state budget proposal, analyzed March 3, 2023, keeps New York State’s long-running refusal to match MTA funding under law 18-b. The budget, now under legislative review, forces New York City to cover a $500 million gap, while the state sits on an $8.7 billion surplus. The matter: 'Hochul's budget not only asks city residents to cover the largest chunk of the MTA's budget gap, but does so in part by continuing long-running practices that essentially under-fund the MTA by millions of dollars each year.' Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and State Sen. Andrew Gounardes both object, demanding the state honor its legal obligations. Riders Alliance and Reinvent Albany condemn the austerity. With fare hikes looming and no service improvements, city transit riders—often pedestrians and cyclists—bear the brunt. The budget leaves vulnerable road users exposed, as transit stagnates and car dominance persists.
-
Analysis: Hochul Turns Her Back on Transit Riders With Her MTA Budget,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-03
A 59-year-old man was injured crossing 25 Avenue at a marked crosswalk in Queens. The sedan, making a left turn, hit him with its front center. Lighting defects contributed. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries but remained conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling northwest on 25 Avenue in Queens struck a 59-year-old male pedestrian crossing at a marked crosswalk without a signal. The driver was making a left turn when the collision occurred, impacting the pedestrian with the vehicle's center front end. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to the knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3, and remained conscious. The report lists 'Other Lighting Defects' as a contributing factor to the crash. No driver errors such as failure to yield or speeding were specified. The vehicle showed no damage. The pedestrian's crossing action and location were noted, but no safety equipment or signals were involved.
Sedan Swerves, Driver Killed, Passenger Hurt▸A sedan veered on Grand Central Parkway. Metal twisted. The driver, twenty, died at the wheel. His head crushed. A passenger, same age, hurt and conscious. An SUV lay wrecked. The road stayed silent after the crash.
A deadly crash struck Grand Central Parkway near 40.767765°N, 73.86499°W. According to the police report, a 20-year-old man driving a sedan swerved in reaction to an uninvolved vehicle. His car crumpled. He suffered fatal head injuries and died at the scene. A 20-year-old male passenger was injured, reporting pain and nausea but remained conscious. An SUV was also demolished in the collision. The police report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the main contributing factor. The driver was not wearing any safety equipment. No other driver errors or contributing factors are noted in the report.
Unlicensed Moped Hits Taxi Turning Left▸A moped driver without a license struck a taxi making a left turn on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The moped driver was ejected and suffered bruises and injuries to the entire body. The crash involved improper turning and lane usage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling westbound collided with a taxi making a left turn eastbound on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The moped driver, unlicensed and riding without safety equipment, was ejected and sustained contusions and injuries to the entire body. The taxi driver was licensed and driving with one occupant. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors. The point of impact was the taxi's right rear bumper and the moped's center front end. The moped driver was conscious but injured. No pedestrian was involved.
Krishnan Supports Safety Boosting Local Speed Limit Control▸Council Member Lincoln Restler joined advocates at City Hall. They pressed Albany to let New York City set its own speed limits. Families mourned children lost to speeding drivers. The Assembly remains the last barrier. The push is urgent. Lives hang in the balance.
On March 29, 2023, Council Member Lincoln Restler and other city officials rallied for Sammy’s Law, a bill allowing New York City to set its own speed limits without state approval. The bill, named for Sammy Cohen Eckstein, killed by a speeding driver in 2013, would let the city lower limits to 20 mph. The matter, described as 'Let New York City lower its own speed limits,' has strong support from the mayor, DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez, and advocates like Families for Safe Streets. Restler’s action was public advocacy. The Assembly is the final hurdle; the bill is already in the governor’s and Senate’s budgets. Advocates cite a 36% drop in pedestrian deaths after the 2014 speed limit change. Families demand action to prevent more deaths.
-
City polls, advocates call on Assembly to let NYC set its own speed limits,
amny.com,
Published 2023-03-29
S 4647Ramos votes yes on highway worker safety bill, overall safety unchanged.▸Senate passes S 4647. Bill hikes penalties for endangering highway workers. It funds more enforcement. It pushes work zone safety awareness. Lawmakers move to protect workers from reckless drivers.
Senate bill S 4647, titled "Increases penalties for endangerment of a highway worker, promotes work zone safety awareness, and establishes a fund for additional work zone safety enforcement," advanced through committee on April 15, 2024. Sponsored by Timothy M. Kennedy, with Joseph P. Addabbo Jr., Pamela Helming, Mario Mattera, Robert Rolison, and James Skoufis as co-sponsors, the bill passed multiple Senate votes. The measure targets drivers who endanger highway workers, boosts safety awareness, and funds enforcement. The bill aims to curb driver recklessness in work zones, where danger is high and impact is deadly.
-
File S 4647,
Open States,
Published 2023-03-21
S 775Ramos votes yes to expand ignition interlock monitoring, boosting road safety.▸Senate backs S 775. The bill defines the ignition interlock monitor’s job. It forces offenders to install devices and obey court orders. Lawmakers act to keep repeat drunk drivers off the street.
Senate bill S 775, titled "Relates to the responsibilities of an ignition interlock monitor," passed committee votes on February 1, March 21, and May 16, 2023. The bill describes the monitor’s role and mandates compliance for those ordered to install ignition interlock devices. Primary sponsor Jeremy Cooney (District 56) led, joined by Nathalia Fernandez, Monica Martinez, and Shelley Mayer. The measure saw broad support, with senators voting yes across multiple sessions. The law aims to keep drivers with violations from endangering others by enforcing strict compliance with court-ordered ignition interlocks.
-
File S 775,
Open States,
Published 2023-03-21
Distracted Driver Crashes Into E-Scooter Rider▸A 28-year-old man on an e-scooter suffered severe injuries after a collision on 31 Avenue in Queens. The driver, distracted and speeding, struck the scooter head-on. The rider fractured and dislocated parts of his body, remaining conscious but badly hurt.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on 31 Avenue in Queens involving an e-scooter and another vehicle. The e-scooter driver, a 28-year-old male, was injured with fractures and dislocations to his entire body but was conscious at the scene. The report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The point of impact was the center front end of both vehicles. The e-scooter driver was not ejected and wore no safety equipment. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and speeding in Queens, resulting in serious injury to a vulnerable road user.
Queens Sedan Hits Pedestrian Walking Highway▸A 55-year-old woman walking along a Queens highway was struck by a northbound sedan. The impact hit her elbow and lower arm, causing bruising. The driver’s vehicle suffered damage to the left side doors. The pedestrian remained conscious.
According to the police report, a 55-year-old female pedestrian was injured while walking along a highway in Queens. She suffered contusions to her elbow and lower arm after being struck by a northbound sedan. The sedan’s left side doors were damaged on impact. The report lists no contributing factors or driver errors such as failure to yield or speeding. The pedestrian was conscious and injured but not ejected. No safety equipment or helmet was noted. The crash occurred near 30-57 70 Street. The driver was licensed and driving straight ahead at the time of collision.
SUV Slams Into Stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard▸A trailing SUV crashed into a stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard. The driver in back, age 61, suffered back pain and whiplash. Police cited following too closely and unsafe speed. Both vehicles showed heavy damage.
According to the police report, a 61-year-old man driving a Jeep SUV rear-ended a stopped Honda SUV on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The trailing driver was injured, reporting back pain and whiplash. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The Jeep was slowing or stopping before impact, while the Honda was stopped in traffic. Both vehicles sustained significant front and rear damage. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
Jessica Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Alternatives▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. Two new bus routes will replace it. Jessica Ramos cheered the move. The AirTrain’s high price and twisted route drew fire. Buses promise faster, cheaper, cleaner rides for millions. Queens riders win. Cars lose.
""This is the right move. My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was. I’m so proud of East Elmhurst for standing up to this bad plan. We still have to look at how to expand transit to those parts of Queens, especially if the proposed football stadium is going to be building what effectively is a new neighborhood in Queens. The 7 alone won’t be able to handle it."" -- Jessica Ramos
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project after an expert panel review. The panel found the $2-billion monorail would not outperform improved bus service. Instead, two new bus routes will serve the airport: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a new non-stop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard using electric buses and transit signal priority. The total cost is about $500 million, far less than any rail option. State Senator Jessica Ramos, district 13, praised the decision, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' The AirTrain faced mounting opposition for its cost, indirect route, and lack of transparency. The new bus plan aims to serve millions of riders annually and can be implemented within two to five years.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2023-03-13
Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Over AirTrain▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. She chose faster, cheaper bus routes instead. The new plan brings electric buses, dedicated lanes, and direct service. Advocates cheered. Queens riders win. The AirTrain dies. Buses roll on.
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul and the Port Authority canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project. The decision followed an expert panel review, which found the $2 billion monorail would not outperform expanded bus service. Instead, the panel recommended two new bus routes: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a nonstop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard to all LaGuardia terminals, using electric buses and transit signal priority. The matter summary states: 'Gov. Hochul and the Port Authority have canceled the controversial Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project, opting instead for two new, improved bus connections to the airport.' State Senator Jessica Ramos welcomed the move, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' Advocates and elected officials praised the shift, though some called for even stronger bus priority and further transit expansion in Queens.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-13
Jessica Ramos Urges Safety Education Opposes E-Bike Bans▸State senators pressed DOTs to fight e-bike stigma and protect riders. They called for education, better battery rules, and fair treatment for delivery workers. City Hall’s inaction leaves e-bike users exposed. Bans loom while agencies stall. Vulnerable riders pay the price.
On March 2, 2023, State Sen. Jessica Ramos and colleagues sent a letter to city and state DOTs urging action against the 'demonization' of e-bikes and e-scooters. The letter, signed by Ramos and State Sen. Liz Krueger, demanded more education on safe riding and battery use, warning, 'We cannot allow a narrative to build against a vital, green, and growing mode of transportation.' Ramos criticized City Hall for failing to post speed limits and design streets for e-mobility. Krueger backed battery safety bills, while Councilman Bob Holden pushed for outright bans, citing deaths and injuries. The senators warned that inaction could lead to blanket bans, hitting delivery workers hardest. The city’s plan for safe charging hubs faces local opposition. DOT claims a 'holistic approach,' but vulnerable riders remain at risk as agencies drag their feet.
-
State Pols Call on DOTs to Counter E-Bike ‘Demonization’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-10
SUV Rear-Ends Another on Astoria Boulevard▸Two SUVs collided on Astoria Boulevard. One driver struck from behind. Neck injury and whiplash followed. Police cited traffic control disregard and tailgating. Metal twisted. Danger clear.
According to the police report, two SUVs crashed on Astoria Boulevard. The rear SUV, driven by a 46-year-old woman, hit the back of another SUV that was slowing or stopping. She suffered neck pain and whiplash but remained conscious and was not ejected. Police listed "Traffic Control Disregarded" and "Following Too Closely" as contributing factors. The rear SUV's right front bumper and the front SUV's left rear bumper were damaged. No other injuries or contributing factors were reported.
2SUV Strikes Van on 88 Street Queens▸A 68-year-old male driver and a 49-year-old female passenger were injured in a Queens crash. The SUV hit the van’s right front bumper. Traffic control devices were not working properly. Both occupants suffered internal injuries and remained conscious.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on 88 Street in Queens when a 2022 SUV traveling east struck a 2014 van traveling south. The van was hit on its right front bumper, causing injuries to its two occupants: a 68-year-old male driver with chest injuries and a 49-year-old female front passenger with head injuries. Both were conscious but suffered internal injuries, with the passenger trapped in the vehicle. The report lists "Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working" as contributing factors. No driver errors were specified. The van was damaged on its right front quarter panel, and the SUV sustained damage to its left side doors. Neither occupant was ejected.
Moped Hits Pedestrian Working in Queens▸A moped struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian working in the roadway at 93-21 37 Avenue, Queens. The pedestrian suffered knee and lower leg bruises. Police cited aggressive driving and unsafe speed as contributing factors. The moped showed no damage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling west on 93-21 37 Avenue in Queens struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian who was working in the roadway at an intersection. The pedestrian sustained contusions and bruises to her knee and lower leg and remained conscious after the collision. The report lists aggressive driving and unsafe speed as the primary contributing factors to the crash. The moped was going straight ahead and impacted the pedestrian with its center front end but showed no vehicle damage. No other factors such as helmet use or pedestrian error were noted in the report.
González-Rojas Opposes State Underfunding of MTA Safety‑Harming Budget▸Governor Hochul’s budget dodges state duty. City pays more, gets less. Riders face fare hikes, no better service. State hoards surplus, starves transit. Lawmakers protest. Suburbs dodge taxes. The city shoulders the load. Riders pay the price. Streets stay dangerous.
Governor Hochul’s 2023 state budget proposal, analyzed March 3, 2023, keeps New York State’s long-running refusal to match MTA funding under law 18-b. The budget, now under legislative review, forces New York City to cover a $500 million gap, while the state sits on an $8.7 billion surplus. The matter: 'Hochul's budget not only asks city residents to cover the largest chunk of the MTA's budget gap, but does so in part by continuing long-running practices that essentially under-fund the MTA by millions of dollars each year.' Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and State Sen. Andrew Gounardes both object, demanding the state honor its legal obligations. Riders Alliance and Reinvent Albany condemn the austerity. With fare hikes looming and no service improvements, city transit riders—often pedestrians and cyclists—bear the brunt. The budget leaves vulnerable road users exposed, as transit stagnates and car dominance persists.
-
Analysis: Hochul Turns Her Back on Transit Riders With Her MTA Budget,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-03
A sedan veered on Grand Central Parkway. Metal twisted. The driver, twenty, died at the wheel. His head crushed. A passenger, same age, hurt and conscious. An SUV lay wrecked. The road stayed silent after the crash.
A deadly crash struck Grand Central Parkway near 40.767765°N, 73.86499°W. According to the police report, a 20-year-old man driving a sedan swerved in reaction to an uninvolved vehicle. His car crumpled. He suffered fatal head injuries and died at the scene. A 20-year-old male passenger was injured, reporting pain and nausea but remained conscious. An SUV was also demolished in the collision. The police report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the main contributing factor. The driver was not wearing any safety equipment. No other driver errors or contributing factors are noted in the report.
Unlicensed Moped Hits Taxi Turning Left▸A moped driver without a license struck a taxi making a left turn on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The moped driver was ejected and suffered bruises and injuries to the entire body. The crash involved improper turning and lane usage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling westbound collided with a taxi making a left turn eastbound on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The moped driver, unlicensed and riding without safety equipment, was ejected and sustained contusions and injuries to the entire body. The taxi driver was licensed and driving with one occupant. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors. The point of impact was the taxi's right rear bumper and the moped's center front end. The moped driver was conscious but injured. No pedestrian was involved.
Krishnan Supports Safety Boosting Local Speed Limit Control▸Council Member Lincoln Restler joined advocates at City Hall. They pressed Albany to let New York City set its own speed limits. Families mourned children lost to speeding drivers. The Assembly remains the last barrier. The push is urgent. Lives hang in the balance.
On March 29, 2023, Council Member Lincoln Restler and other city officials rallied for Sammy’s Law, a bill allowing New York City to set its own speed limits without state approval. The bill, named for Sammy Cohen Eckstein, killed by a speeding driver in 2013, would let the city lower limits to 20 mph. The matter, described as 'Let New York City lower its own speed limits,' has strong support from the mayor, DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez, and advocates like Families for Safe Streets. Restler’s action was public advocacy. The Assembly is the final hurdle; the bill is already in the governor’s and Senate’s budgets. Advocates cite a 36% drop in pedestrian deaths after the 2014 speed limit change. Families demand action to prevent more deaths.
-
City polls, advocates call on Assembly to let NYC set its own speed limits,
amny.com,
Published 2023-03-29
S 4647Ramos votes yes on highway worker safety bill, overall safety unchanged.▸Senate passes S 4647. Bill hikes penalties for endangering highway workers. It funds more enforcement. It pushes work zone safety awareness. Lawmakers move to protect workers from reckless drivers.
Senate bill S 4647, titled "Increases penalties for endangerment of a highway worker, promotes work zone safety awareness, and establishes a fund for additional work zone safety enforcement," advanced through committee on April 15, 2024. Sponsored by Timothy M. Kennedy, with Joseph P. Addabbo Jr., Pamela Helming, Mario Mattera, Robert Rolison, and James Skoufis as co-sponsors, the bill passed multiple Senate votes. The measure targets drivers who endanger highway workers, boosts safety awareness, and funds enforcement. The bill aims to curb driver recklessness in work zones, where danger is high and impact is deadly.
-
File S 4647,
Open States,
Published 2023-03-21
S 775Ramos votes yes to expand ignition interlock monitoring, boosting road safety.▸Senate backs S 775. The bill defines the ignition interlock monitor’s job. It forces offenders to install devices and obey court orders. Lawmakers act to keep repeat drunk drivers off the street.
Senate bill S 775, titled "Relates to the responsibilities of an ignition interlock monitor," passed committee votes on February 1, March 21, and May 16, 2023. The bill describes the monitor’s role and mandates compliance for those ordered to install ignition interlock devices. Primary sponsor Jeremy Cooney (District 56) led, joined by Nathalia Fernandez, Monica Martinez, and Shelley Mayer. The measure saw broad support, with senators voting yes across multiple sessions. The law aims to keep drivers with violations from endangering others by enforcing strict compliance with court-ordered ignition interlocks.
-
File S 775,
Open States,
Published 2023-03-21
Distracted Driver Crashes Into E-Scooter Rider▸A 28-year-old man on an e-scooter suffered severe injuries after a collision on 31 Avenue in Queens. The driver, distracted and speeding, struck the scooter head-on. The rider fractured and dislocated parts of his body, remaining conscious but badly hurt.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on 31 Avenue in Queens involving an e-scooter and another vehicle. The e-scooter driver, a 28-year-old male, was injured with fractures and dislocations to his entire body but was conscious at the scene. The report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The point of impact was the center front end of both vehicles. The e-scooter driver was not ejected and wore no safety equipment. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and speeding in Queens, resulting in serious injury to a vulnerable road user.
Queens Sedan Hits Pedestrian Walking Highway▸A 55-year-old woman walking along a Queens highway was struck by a northbound sedan. The impact hit her elbow and lower arm, causing bruising. The driver’s vehicle suffered damage to the left side doors. The pedestrian remained conscious.
According to the police report, a 55-year-old female pedestrian was injured while walking along a highway in Queens. She suffered contusions to her elbow and lower arm after being struck by a northbound sedan. The sedan’s left side doors were damaged on impact. The report lists no contributing factors or driver errors such as failure to yield or speeding. The pedestrian was conscious and injured but not ejected. No safety equipment or helmet was noted. The crash occurred near 30-57 70 Street. The driver was licensed and driving straight ahead at the time of collision.
SUV Slams Into Stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard▸A trailing SUV crashed into a stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard. The driver in back, age 61, suffered back pain and whiplash. Police cited following too closely and unsafe speed. Both vehicles showed heavy damage.
According to the police report, a 61-year-old man driving a Jeep SUV rear-ended a stopped Honda SUV on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The trailing driver was injured, reporting back pain and whiplash. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The Jeep was slowing or stopping before impact, while the Honda was stopped in traffic. Both vehicles sustained significant front and rear damage. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
Jessica Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Alternatives▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. Two new bus routes will replace it. Jessica Ramos cheered the move. The AirTrain’s high price and twisted route drew fire. Buses promise faster, cheaper, cleaner rides for millions. Queens riders win. Cars lose.
""This is the right move. My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was. I’m so proud of East Elmhurst for standing up to this bad plan. We still have to look at how to expand transit to those parts of Queens, especially if the proposed football stadium is going to be building what effectively is a new neighborhood in Queens. The 7 alone won’t be able to handle it."" -- Jessica Ramos
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project after an expert panel review. The panel found the $2-billion monorail would not outperform improved bus service. Instead, two new bus routes will serve the airport: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a new non-stop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard using electric buses and transit signal priority. The total cost is about $500 million, far less than any rail option. State Senator Jessica Ramos, district 13, praised the decision, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' The AirTrain faced mounting opposition for its cost, indirect route, and lack of transparency. The new bus plan aims to serve millions of riders annually and can be implemented within two to five years.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2023-03-13
Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Over AirTrain▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. She chose faster, cheaper bus routes instead. The new plan brings electric buses, dedicated lanes, and direct service. Advocates cheered. Queens riders win. The AirTrain dies. Buses roll on.
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul and the Port Authority canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project. The decision followed an expert panel review, which found the $2 billion monorail would not outperform expanded bus service. Instead, the panel recommended two new bus routes: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a nonstop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard to all LaGuardia terminals, using electric buses and transit signal priority. The matter summary states: 'Gov. Hochul and the Port Authority have canceled the controversial Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project, opting instead for two new, improved bus connections to the airport.' State Senator Jessica Ramos welcomed the move, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' Advocates and elected officials praised the shift, though some called for even stronger bus priority and further transit expansion in Queens.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-13
Jessica Ramos Urges Safety Education Opposes E-Bike Bans▸State senators pressed DOTs to fight e-bike stigma and protect riders. They called for education, better battery rules, and fair treatment for delivery workers. City Hall’s inaction leaves e-bike users exposed. Bans loom while agencies stall. Vulnerable riders pay the price.
On March 2, 2023, State Sen. Jessica Ramos and colleagues sent a letter to city and state DOTs urging action against the 'demonization' of e-bikes and e-scooters. The letter, signed by Ramos and State Sen. Liz Krueger, demanded more education on safe riding and battery use, warning, 'We cannot allow a narrative to build against a vital, green, and growing mode of transportation.' Ramos criticized City Hall for failing to post speed limits and design streets for e-mobility. Krueger backed battery safety bills, while Councilman Bob Holden pushed for outright bans, citing deaths and injuries. The senators warned that inaction could lead to blanket bans, hitting delivery workers hardest. The city’s plan for safe charging hubs faces local opposition. DOT claims a 'holistic approach,' but vulnerable riders remain at risk as agencies drag their feet.
-
State Pols Call on DOTs to Counter E-Bike ‘Demonization’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-10
SUV Rear-Ends Another on Astoria Boulevard▸Two SUVs collided on Astoria Boulevard. One driver struck from behind. Neck injury and whiplash followed. Police cited traffic control disregard and tailgating. Metal twisted. Danger clear.
According to the police report, two SUVs crashed on Astoria Boulevard. The rear SUV, driven by a 46-year-old woman, hit the back of another SUV that was slowing or stopping. She suffered neck pain and whiplash but remained conscious and was not ejected. Police listed "Traffic Control Disregarded" and "Following Too Closely" as contributing factors. The rear SUV's right front bumper and the front SUV's left rear bumper were damaged. No other injuries or contributing factors were reported.
2SUV Strikes Van on 88 Street Queens▸A 68-year-old male driver and a 49-year-old female passenger were injured in a Queens crash. The SUV hit the van’s right front bumper. Traffic control devices were not working properly. Both occupants suffered internal injuries and remained conscious.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on 88 Street in Queens when a 2022 SUV traveling east struck a 2014 van traveling south. The van was hit on its right front bumper, causing injuries to its two occupants: a 68-year-old male driver with chest injuries and a 49-year-old female front passenger with head injuries. Both were conscious but suffered internal injuries, with the passenger trapped in the vehicle. The report lists "Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working" as contributing factors. No driver errors were specified. The van was damaged on its right front quarter panel, and the SUV sustained damage to its left side doors. Neither occupant was ejected.
Moped Hits Pedestrian Working in Queens▸A moped struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian working in the roadway at 93-21 37 Avenue, Queens. The pedestrian suffered knee and lower leg bruises. Police cited aggressive driving and unsafe speed as contributing factors. The moped showed no damage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling west on 93-21 37 Avenue in Queens struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian who was working in the roadway at an intersection. The pedestrian sustained contusions and bruises to her knee and lower leg and remained conscious after the collision. The report lists aggressive driving and unsafe speed as the primary contributing factors to the crash. The moped was going straight ahead and impacted the pedestrian with its center front end but showed no vehicle damage. No other factors such as helmet use or pedestrian error were noted in the report.
González-Rojas Opposes State Underfunding of MTA Safety‑Harming Budget▸Governor Hochul’s budget dodges state duty. City pays more, gets less. Riders face fare hikes, no better service. State hoards surplus, starves transit. Lawmakers protest. Suburbs dodge taxes. The city shoulders the load. Riders pay the price. Streets stay dangerous.
Governor Hochul’s 2023 state budget proposal, analyzed March 3, 2023, keeps New York State’s long-running refusal to match MTA funding under law 18-b. The budget, now under legislative review, forces New York City to cover a $500 million gap, while the state sits on an $8.7 billion surplus. The matter: 'Hochul's budget not only asks city residents to cover the largest chunk of the MTA's budget gap, but does so in part by continuing long-running practices that essentially under-fund the MTA by millions of dollars each year.' Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and State Sen. Andrew Gounardes both object, demanding the state honor its legal obligations. Riders Alliance and Reinvent Albany condemn the austerity. With fare hikes looming and no service improvements, city transit riders—often pedestrians and cyclists—bear the brunt. The budget leaves vulnerable road users exposed, as transit stagnates and car dominance persists.
-
Analysis: Hochul Turns Her Back on Transit Riders With Her MTA Budget,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-03
A moped driver without a license struck a taxi making a left turn on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The moped driver was ejected and suffered bruises and injuries to the entire body. The crash involved improper turning and lane usage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling westbound collided with a taxi making a left turn eastbound on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The moped driver, unlicensed and riding without safety equipment, was ejected and sustained contusions and injuries to the entire body. The taxi driver was licensed and driving with one occupant. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors. The point of impact was the taxi's right rear bumper and the moped's center front end. The moped driver was conscious but injured. No pedestrian was involved.
Krishnan Supports Safety Boosting Local Speed Limit Control▸Council Member Lincoln Restler joined advocates at City Hall. They pressed Albany to let New York City set its own speed limits. Families mourned children lost to speeding drivers. The Assembly remains the last barrier. The push is urgent. Lives hang in the balance.
On March 29, 2023, Council Member Lincoln Restler and other city officials rallied for Sammy’s Law, a bill allowing New York City to set its own speed limits without state approval. The bill, named for Sammy Cohen Eckstein, killed by a speeding driver in 2013, would let the city lower limits to 20 mph. The matter, described as 'Let New York City lower its own speed limits,' has strong support from the mayor, DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez, and advocates like Families for Safe Streets. Restler’s action was public advocacy. The Assembly is the final hurdle; the bill is already in the governor’s and Senate’s budgets. Advocates cite a 36% drop in pedestrian deaths after the 2014 speed limit change. Families demand action to prevent more deaths.
-
City polls, advocates call on Assembly to let NYC set its own speed limits,
amny.com,
Published 2023-03-29
S 4647Ramos votes yes on highway worker safety bill, overall safety unchanged.▸Senate passes S 4647. Bill hikes penalties for endangering highway workers. It funds more enforcement. It pushes work zone safety awareness. Lawmakers move to protect workers from reckless drivers.
Senate bill S 4647, titled "Increases penalties for endangerment of a highway worker, promotes work zone safety awareness, and establishes a fund for additional work zone safety enforcement," advanced through committee on April 15, 2024. Sponsored by Timothy M. Kennedy, with Joseph P. Addabbo Jr., Pamela Helming, Mario Mattera, Robert Rolison, and James Skoufis as co-sponsors, the bill passed multiple Senate votes. The measure targets drivers who endanger highway workers, boosts safety awareness, and funds enforcement. The bill aims to curb driver recklessness in work zones, where danger is high and impact is deadly.
-
File S 4647,
Open States,
Published 2023-03-21
S 775Ramos votes yes to expand ignition interlock monitoring, boosting road safety.▸Senate backs S 775. The bill defines the ignition interlock monitor’s job. It forces offenders to install devices and obey court orders. Lawmakers act to keep repeat drunk drivers off the street.
Senate bill S 775, titled "Relates to the responsibilities of an ignition interlock monitor," passed committee votes on February 1, March 21, and May 16, 2023. The bill describes the monitor’s role and mandates compliance for those ordered to install ignition interlock devices. Primary sponsor Jeremy Cooney (District 56) led, joined by Nathalia Fernandez, Monica Martinez, and Shelley Mayer. The measure saw broad support, with senators voting yes across multiple sessions. The law aims to keep drivers with violations from endangering others by enforcing strict compliance with court-ordered ignition interlocks.
-
File S 775,
Open States,
Published 2023-03-21
Distracted Driver Crashes Into E-Scooter Rider▸A 28-year-old man on an e-scooter suffered severe injuries after a collision on 31 Avenue in Queens. The driver, distracted and speeding, struck the scooter head-on. The rider fractured and dislocated parts of his body, remaining conscious but badly hurt.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on 31 Avenue in Queens involving an e-scooter and another vehicle. The e-scooter driver, a 28-year-old male, was injured with fractures and dislocations to his entire body but was conscious at the scene. The report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The point of impact was the center front end of both vehicles. The e-scooter driver was not ejected and wore no safety equipment. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and speeding in Queens, resulting in serious injury to a vulnerable road user.
Queens Sedan Hits Pedestrian Walking Highway▸A 55-year-old woman walking along a Queens highway was struck by a northbound sedan. The impact hit her elbow and lower arm, causing bruising. The driver’s vehicle suffered damage to the left side doors. The pedestrian remained conscious.
According to the police report, a 55-year-old female pedestrian was injured while walking along a highway in Queens. She suffered contusions to her elbow and lower arm after being struck by a northbound sedan. The sedan’s left side doors were damaged on impact. The report lists no contributing factors or driver errors such as failure to yield or speeding. The pedestrian was conscious and injured but not ejected. No safety equipment or helmet was noted. The crash occurred near 30-57 70 Street. The driver was licensed and driving straight ahead at the time of collision.
SUV Slams Into Stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard▸A trailing SUV crashed into a stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard. The driver in back, age 61, suffered back pain and whiplash. Police cited following too closely and unsafe speed. Both vehicles showed heavy damage.
According to the police report, a 61-year-old man driving a Jeep SUV rear-ended a stopped Honda SUV on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The trailing driver was injured, reporting back pain and whiplash. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The Jeep was slowing or stopping before impact, while the Honda was stopped in traffic. Both vehicles sustained significant front and rear damage. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
Jessica Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Alternatives▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. Two new bus routes will replace it. Jessica Ramos cheered the move. The AirTrain’s high price and twisted route drew fire. Buses promise faster, cheaper, cleaner rides for millions. Queens riders win. Cars lose.
""This is the right move. My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was. I’m so proud of East Elmhurst for standing up to this bad plan. We still have to look at how to expand transit to those parts of Queens, especially if the proposed football stadium is going to be building what effectively is a new neighborhood in Queens. The 7 alone won’t be able to handle it."" -- Jessica Ramos
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project after an expert panel review. The panel found the $2-billion monorail would not outperform improved bus service. Instead, two new bus routes will serve the airport: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a new non-stop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard using electric buses and transit signal priority. The total cost is about $500 million, far less than any rail option. State Senator Jessica Ramos, district 13, praised the decision, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' The AirTrain faced mounting opposition for its cost, indirect route, and lack of transparency. The new bus plan aims to serve millions of riders annually and can be implemented within two to five years.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2023-03-13
Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Over AirTrain▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. She chose faster, cheaper bus routes instead. The new plan brings electric buses, dedicated lanes, and direct service. Advocates cheered. Queens riders win. The AirTrain dies. Buses roll on.
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul and the Port Authority canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project. The decision followed an expert panel review, which found the $2 billion monorail would not outperform expanded bus service. Instead, the panel recommended two new bus routes: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a nonstop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard to all LaGuardia terminals, using electric buses and transit signal priority. The matter summary states: 'Gov. Hochul and the Port Authority have canceled the controversial Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project, opting instead for two new, improved bus connections to the airport.' State Senator Jessica Ramos welcomed the move, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' Advocates and elected officials praised the shift, though some called for even stronger bus priority and further transit expansion in Queens.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-13
Jessica Ramos Urges Safety Education Opposes E-Bike Bans▸State senators pressed DOTs to fight e-bike stigma and protect riders. They called for education, better battery rules, and fair treatment for delivery workers. City Hall’s inaction leaves e-bike users exposed. Bans loom while agencies stall. Vulnerable riders pay the price.
On March 2, 2023, State Sen. Jessica Ramos and colleagues sent a letter to city and state DOTs urging action against the 'demonization' of e-bikes and e-scooters. The letter, signed by Ramos and State Sen. Liz Krueger, demanded more education on safe riding and battery use, warning, 'We cannot allow a narrative to build against a vital, green, and growing mode of transportation.' Ramos criticized City Hall for failing to post speed limits and design streets for e-mobility. Krueger backed battery safety bills, while Councilman Bob Holden pushed for outright bans, citing deaths and injuries. The senators warned that inaction could lead to blanket bans, hitting delivery workers hardest. The city’s plan for safe charging hubs faces local opposition. DOT claims a 'holistic approach,' but vulnerable riders remain at risk as agencies drag their feet.
-
State Pols Call on DOTs to Counter E-Bike ‘Demonization’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-10
SUV Rear-Ends Another on Astoria Boulevard▸Two SUVs collided on Astoria Boulevard. One driver struck from behind. Neck injury and whiplash followed. Police cited traffic control disregard and tailgating. Metal twisted. Danger clear.
According to the police report, two SUVs crashed on Astoria Boulevard. The rear SUV, driven by a 46-year-old woman, hit the back of another SUV that was slowing or stopping. She suffered neck pain and whiplash but remained conscious and was not ejected. Police listed "Traffic Control Disregarded" and "Following Too Closely" as contributing factors. The rear SUV's right front bumper and the front SUV's left rear bumper were damaged. No other injuries or contributing factors were reported.
2SUV Strikes Van on 88 Street Queens▸A 68-year-old male driver and a 49-year-old female passenger were injured in a Queens crash. The SUV hit the van’s right front bumper. Traffic control devices were not working properly. Both occupants suffered internal injuries and remained conscious.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on 88 Street in Queens when a 2022 SUV traveling east struck a 2014 van traveling south. The van was hit on its right front bumper, causing injuries to its two occupants: a 68-year-old male driver with chest injuries and a 49-year-old female front passenger with head injuries. Both were conscious but suffered internal injuries, with the passenger trapped in the vehicle. The report lists "Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working" as contributing factors. No driver errors were specified. The van was damaged on its right front quarter panel, and the SUV sustained damage to its left side doors. Neither occupant was ejected.
Moped Hits Pedestrian Working in Queens▸A moped struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian working in the roadway at 93-21 37 Avenue, Queens. The pedestrian suffered knee and lower leg bruises. Police cited aggressive driving and unsafe speed as contributing factors. The moped showed no damage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling west on 93-21 37 Avenue in Queens struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian who was working in the roadway at an intersection. The pedestrian sustained contusions and bruises to her knee and lower leg and remained conscious after the collision. The report lists aggressive driving and unsafe speed as the primary contributing factors to the crash. The moped was going straight ahead and impacted the pedestrian with its center front end but showed no vehicle damage. No other factors such as helmet use or pedestrian error were noted in the report.
González-Rojas Opposes State Underfunding of MTA Safety‑Harming Budget▸Governor Hochul’s budget dodges state duty. City pays more, gets less. Riders face fare hikes, no better service. State hoards surplus, starves transit. Lawmakers protest. Suburbs dodge taxes. The city shoulders the load. Riders pay the price. Streets stay dangerous.
Governor Hochul’s 2023 state budget proposal, analyzed March 3, 2023, keeps New York State’s long-running refusal to match MTA funding under law 18-b. The budget, now under legislative review, forces New York City to cover a $500 million gap, while the state sits on an $8.7 billion surplus. The matter: 'Hochul's budget not only asks city residents to cover the largest chunk of the MTA's budget gap, but does so in part by continuing long-running practices that essentially under-fund the MTA by millions of dollars each year.' Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and State Sen. Andrew Gounardes both object, demanding the state honor its legal obligations. Riders Alliance and Reinvent Albany condemn the austerity. With fare hikes looming and no service improvements, city transit riders—often pedestrians and cyclists—bear the brunt. The budget leaves vulnerable road users exposed, as transit stagnates and car dominance persists.
-
Analysis: Hochul Turns Her Back on Transit Riders With Her MTA Budget,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-03
Council Member Lincoln Restler joined advocates at City Hall. They pressed Albany to let New York City set its own speed limits. Families mourned children lost to speeding drivers. The Assembly remains the last barrier. The push is urgent. Lives hang in the balance.
On March 29, 2023, Council Member Lincoln Restler and other city officials rallied for Sammy’s Law, a bill allowing New York City to set its own speed limits without state approval. The bill, named for Sammy Cohen Eckstein, killed by a speeding driver in 2013, would let the city lower limits to 20 mph. The matter, described as 'Let New York City lower its own speed limits,' has strong support from the mayor, DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez, and advocates like Families for Safe Streets. Restler’s action was public advocacy. The Assembly is the final hurdle; the bill is already in the governor’s and Senate’s budgets. Advocates cite a 36% drop in pedestrian deaths after the 2014 speed limit change. Families demand action to prevent more deaths.
- City polls, advocates call on Assembly to let NYC set its own speed limits, amny.com, Published 2023-03-29
S 4647Ramos votes yes on highway worker safety bill, overall safety unchanged.▸Senate passes S 4647. Bill hikes penalties for endangering highway workers. It funds more enforcement. It pushes work zone safety awareness. Lawmakers move to protect workers from reckless drivers.
Senate bill S 4647, titled "Increases penalties for endangerment of a highway worker, promotes work zone safety awareness, and establishes a fund for additional work zone safety enforcement," advanced through committee on April 15, 2024. Sponsored by Timothy M. Kennedy, with Joseph P. Addabbo Jr., Pamela Helming, Mario Mattera, Robert Rolison, and James Skoufis as co-sponsors, the bill passed multiple Senate votes. The measure targets drivers who endanger highway workers, boosts safety awareness, and funds enforcement. The bill aims to curb driver recklessness in work zones, where danger is high and impact is deadly.
-
File S 4647,
Open States,
Published 2023-03-21
S 775Ramos votes yes to expand ignition interlock monitoring, boosting road safety.▸Senate backs S 775. The bill defines the ignition interlock monitor’s job. It forces offenders to install devices and obey court orders. Lawmakers act to keep repeat drunk drivers off the street.
Senate bill S 775, titled "Relates to the responsibilities of an ignition interlock monitor," passed committee votes on February 1, March 21, and May 16, 2023. The bill describes the monitor’s role and mandates compliance for those ordered to install ignition interlock devices. Primary sponsor Jeremy Cooney (District 56) led, joined by Nathalia Fernandez, Monica Martinez, and Shelley Mayer. The measure saw broad support, with senators voting yes across multiple sessions. The law aims to keep drivers with violations from endangering others by enforcing strict compliance with court-ordered ignition interlocks.
-
File S 775,
Open States,
Published 2023-03-21
Distracted Driver Crashes Into E-Scooter Rider▸A 28-year-old man on an e-scooter suffered severe injuries after a collision on 31 Avenue in Queens. The driver, distracted and speeding, struck the scooter head-on. The rider fractured and dislocated parts of his body, remaining conscious but badly hurt.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on 31 Avenue in Queens involving an e-scooter and another vehicle. The e-scooter driver, a 28-year-old male, was injured with fractures and dislocations to his entire body but was conscious at the scene. The report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The point of impact was the center front end of both vehicles. The e-scooter driver was not ejected and wore no safety equipment. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and speeding in Queens, resulting in serious injury to a vulnerable road user.
Queens Sedan Hits Pedestrian Walking Highway▸A 55-year-old woman walking along a Queens highway was struck by a northbound sedan. The impact hit her elbow and lower arm, causing bruising. The driver’s vehicle suffered damage to the left side doors. The pedestrian remained conscious.
According to the police report, a 55-year-old female pedestrian was injured while walking along a highway in Queens. She suffered contusions to her elbow and lower arm after being struck by a northbound sedan. The sedan’s left side doors were damaged on impact. The report lists no contributing factors or driver errors such as failure to yield or speeding. The pedestrian was conscious and injured but not ejected. No safety equipment or helmet was noted. The crash occurred near 30-57 70 Street. The driver was licensed and driving straight ahead at the time of collision.
SUV Slams Into Stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard▸A trailing SUV crashed into a stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard. The driver in back, age 61, suffered back pain and whiplash. Police cited following too closely and unsafe speed. Both vehicles showed heavy damage.
According to the police report, a 61-year-old man driving a Jeep SUV rear-ended a stopped Honda SUV on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The trailing driver was injured, reporting back pain and whiplash. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The Jeep was slowing or stopping before impact, while the Honda was stopped in traffic. Both vehicles sustained significant front and rear damage. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
Jessica Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Alternatives▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. Two new bus routes will replace it. Jessica Ramos cheered the move. The AirTrain’s high price and twisted route drew fire. Buses promise faster, cheaper, cleaner rides for millions. Queens riders win. Cars lose.
""This is the right move. My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was. I’m so proud of East Elmhurst for standing up to this bad plan. We still have to look at how to expand transit to those parts of Queens, especially if the proposed football stadium is going to be building what effectively is a new neighborhood in Queens. The 7 alone won’t be able to handle it."" -- Jessica Ramos
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project after an expert panel review. The panel found the $2-billion monorail would not outperform improved bus service. Instead, two new bus routes will serve the airport: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a new non-stop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard using electric buses and transit signal priority. The total cost is about $500 million, far less than any rail option. State Senator Jessica Ramos, district 13, praised the decision, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' The AirTrain faced mounting opposition for its cost, indirect route, and lack of transparency. The new bus plan aims to serve millions of riders annually and can be implemented within two to five years.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2023-03-13
Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Over AirTrain▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. She chose faster, cheaper bus routes instead. The new plan brings electric buses, dedicated lanes, and direct service. Advocates cheered. Queens riders win. The AirTrain dies. Buses roll on.
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul and the Port Authority canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project. The decision followed an expert panel review, which found the $2 billion monorail would not outperform expanded bus service. Instead, the panel recommended two new bus routes: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a nonstop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard to all LaGuardia terminals, using electric buses and transit signal priority. The matter summary states: 'Gov. Hochul and the Port Authority have canceled the controversial Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project, opting instead for two new, improved bus connections to the airport.' State Senator Jessica Ramos welcomed the move, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' Advocates and elected officials praised the shift, though some called for even stronger bus priority and further transit expansion in Queens.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-13
Jessica Ramos Urges Safety Education Opposes E-Bike Bans▸State senators pressed DOTs to fight e-bike stigma and protect riders. They called for education, better battery rules, and fair treatment for delivery workers. City Hall’s inaction leaves e-bike users exposed. Bans loom while agencies stall. Vulnerable riders pay the price.
On March 2, 2023, State Sen. Jessica Ramos and colleagues sent a letter to city and state DOTs urging action against the 'demonization' of e-bikes and e-scooters. The letter, signed by Ramos and State Sen. Liz Krueger, demanded more education on safe riding and battery use, warning, 'We cannot allow a narrative to build against a vital, green, and growing mode of transportation.' Ramos criticized City Hall for failing to post speed limits and design streets for e-mobility. Krueger backed battery safety bills, while Councilman Bob Holden pushed for outright bans, citing deaths and injuries. The senators warned that inaction could lead to blanket bans, hitting delivery workers hardest. The city’s plan for safe charging hubs faces local opposition. DOT claims a 'holistic approach,' but vulnerable riders remain at risk as agencies drag their feet.
-
State Pols Call on DOTs to Counter E-Bike ‘Demonization’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-10
SUV Rear-Ends Another on Astoria Boulevard▸Two SUVs collided on Astoria Boulevard. One driver struck from behind. Neck injury and whiplash followed. Police cited traffic control disregard and tailgating. Metal twisted. Danger clear.
According to the police report, two SUVs crashed on Astoria Boulevard. The rear SUV, driven by a 46-year-old woman, hit the back of another SUV that was slowing or stopping. She suffered neck pain and whiplash but remained conscious and was not ejected. Police listed "Traffic Control Disregarded" and "Following Too Closely" as contributing factors. The rear SUV's right front bumper and the front SUV's left rear bumper were damaged. No other injuries or contributing factors were reported.
2SUV Strikes Van on 88 Street Queens▸A 68-year-old male driver and a 49-year-old female passenger were injured in a Queens crash. The SUV hit the van’s right front bumper. Traffic control devices were not working properly. Both occupants suffered internal injuries and remained conscious.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on 88 Street in Queens when a 2022 SUV traveling east struck a 2014 van traveling south. The van was hit on its right front bumper, causing injuries to its two occupants: a 68-year-old male driver with chest injuries and a 49-year-old female front passenger with head injuries. Both were conscious but suffered internal injuries, with the passenger trapped in the vehicle. The report lists "Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working" as contributing factors. No driver errors were specified. The van was damaged on its right front quarter panel, and the SUV sustained damage to its left side doors. Neither occupant was ejected.
Moped Hits Pedestrian Working in Queens▸A moped struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian working in the roadway at 93-21 37 Avenue, Queens. The pedestrian suffered knee and lower leg bruises. Police cited aggressive driving and unsafe speed as contributing factors. The moped showed no damage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling west on 93-21 37 Avenue in Queens struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian who was working in the roadway at an intersection. The pedestrian sustained contusions and bruises to her knee and lower leg and remained conscious after the collision. The report lists aggressive driving and unsafe speed as the primary contributing factors to the crash. The moped was going straight ahead and impacted the pedestrian with its center front end but showed no vehicle damage. No other factors such as helmet use or pedestrian error were noted in the report.
González-Rojas Opposes State Underfunding of MTA Safety‑Harming Budget▸Governor Hochul’s budget dodges state duty. City pays more, gets less. Riders face fare hikes, no better service. State hoards surplus, starves transit. Lawmakers protest. Suburbs dodge taxes. The city shoulders the load. Riders pay the price. Streets stay dangerous.
Governor Hochul’s 2023 state budget proposal, analyzed March 3, 2023, keeps New York State’s long-running refusal to match MTA funding under law 18-b. The budget, now under legislative review, forces New York City to cover a $500 million gap, while the state sits on an $8.7 billion surplus. The matter: 'Hochul's budget not only asks city residents to cover the largest chunk of the MTA's budget gap, but does so in part by continuing long-running practices that essentially under-fund the MTA by millions of dollars each year.' Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and State Sen. Andrew Gounardes both object, demanding the state honor its legal obligations. Riders Alliance and Reinvent Albany condemn the austerity. With fare hikes looming and no service improvements, city transit riders—often pedestrians and cyclists—bear the brunt. The budget leaves vulnerable road users exposed, as transit stagnates and car dominance persists.
-
Analysis: Hochul Turns Her Back on Transit Riders With Her MTA Budget,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-03
Senate passes S 4647. Bill hikes penalties for endangering highway workers. It funds more enforcement. It pushes work zone safety awareness. Lawmakers move to protect workers from reckless drivers.
Senate bill S 4647, titled "Increases penalties for endangerment of a highway worker, promotes work zone safety awareness, and establishes a fund for additional work zone safety enforcement," advanced through committee on April 15, 2024. Sponsored by Timothy M. Kennedy, with Joseph P. Addabbo Jr., Pamela Helming, Mario Mattera, Robert Rolison, and James Skoufis as co-sponsors, the bill passed multiple Senate votes. The measure targets drivers who endanger highway workers, boosts safety awareness, and funds enforcement. The bill aims to curb driver recklessness in work zones, where danger is high and impact is deadly.
- File S 4647, Open States, Published 2023-03-21
S 775Ramos votes yes to expand ignition interlock monitoring, boosting road safety.▸Senate backs S 775. The bill defines the ignition interlock monitor’s job. It forces offenders to install devices and obey court orders. Lawmakers act to keep repeat drunk drivers off the street.
Senate bill S 775, titled "Relates to the responsibilities of an ignition interlock monitor," passed committee votes on February 1, March 21, and May 16, 2023. The bill describes the monitor’s role and mandates compliance for those ordered to install ignition interlock devices. Primary sponsor Jeremy Cooney (District 56) led, joined by Nathalia Fernandez, Monica Martinez, and Shelley Mayer. The measure saw broad support, with senators voting yes across multiple sessions. The law aims to keep drivers with violations from endangering others by enforcing strict compliance with court-ordered ignition interlocks.
-
File S 775,
Open States,
Published 2023-03-21
Distracted Driver Crashes Into E-Scooter Rider▸A 28-year-old man on an e-scooter suffered severe injuries after a collision on 31 Avenue in Queens. The driver, distracted and speeding, struck the scooter head-on. The rider fractured and dislocated parts of his body, remaining conscious but badly hurt.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on 31 Avenue in Queens involving an e-scooter and another vehicle. The e-scooter driver, a 28-year-old male, was injured with fractures and dislocations to his entire body but was conscious at the scene. The report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The point of impact was the center front end of both vehicles. The e-scooter driver was not ejected and wore no safety equipment. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and speeding in Queens, resulting in serious injury to a vulnerable road user.
Queens Sedan Hits Pedestrian Walking Highway▸A 55-year-old woman walking along a Queens highway was struck by a northbound sedan. The impact hit her elbow and lower arm, causing bruising. The driver’s vehicle suffered damage to the left side doors. The pedestrian remained conscious.
According to the police report, a 55-year-old female pedestrian was injured while walking along a highway in Queens. She suffered contusions to her elbow and lower arm after being struck by a northbound sedan. The sedan’s left side doors were damaged on impact. The report lists no contributing factors or driver errors such as failure to yield or speeding. The pedestrian was conscious and injured but not ejected. No safety equipment or helmet was noted. The crash occurred near 30-57 70 Street. The driver was licensed and driving straight ahead at the time of collision.
SUV Slams Into Stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard▸A trailing SUV crashed into a stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard. The driver in back, age 61, suffered back pain and whiplash. Police cited following too closely and unsafe speed. Both vehicles showed heavy damage.
According to the police report, a 61-year-old man driving a Jeep SUV rear-ended a stopped Honda SUV on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The trailing driver was injured, reporting back pain and whiplash. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The Jeep was slowing or stopping before impact, while the Honda was stopped in traffic. Both vehicles sustained significant front and rear damage. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
Jessica Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Alternatives▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. Two new bus routes will replace it. Jessica Ramos cheered the move. The AirTrain’s high price and twisted route drew fire. Buses promise faster, cheaper, cleaner rides for millions. Queens riders win. Cars lose.
""This is the right move. My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was. I’m so proud of East Elmhurst for standing up to this bad plan. We still have to look at how to expand transit to those parts of Queens, especially if the proposed football stadium is going to be building what effectively is a new neighborhood in Queens. The 7 alone won’t be able to handle it."" -- Jessica Ramos
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project after an expert panel review. The panel found the $2-billion monorail would not outperform improved bus service. Instead, two new bus routes will serve the airport: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a new non-stop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard using electric buses and transit signal priority. The total cost is about $500 million, far less than any rail option. State Senator Jessica Ramos, district 13, praised the decision, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' The AirTrain faced mounting opposition for its cost, indirect route, and lack of transparency. The new bus plan aims to serve millions of riders annually and can be implemented within two to five years.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2023-03-13
Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Over AirTrain▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. She chose faster, cheaper bus routes instead. The new plan brings electric buses, dedicated lanes, and direct service. Advocates cheered. Queens riders win. The AirTrain dies. Buses roll on.
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul and the Port Authority canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project. The decision followed an expert panel review, which found the $2 billion monorail would not outperform expanded bus service. Instead, the panel recommended two new bus routes: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a nonstop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard to all LaGuardia terminals, using electric buses and transit signal priority. The matter summary states: 'Gov. Hochul and the Port Authority have canceled the controversial Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project, opting instead for two new, improved bus connections to the airport.' State Senator Jessica Ramos welcomed the move, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' Advocates and elected officials praised the shift, though some called for even stronger bus priority and further transit expansion in Queens.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-13
Jessica Ramos Urges Safety Education Opposes E-Bike Bans▸State senators pressed DOTs to fight e-bike stigma and protect riders. They called for education, better battery rules, and fair treatment for delivery workers. City Hall’s inaction leaves e-bike users exposed. Bans loom while agencies stall. Vulnerable riders pay the price.
On March 2, 2023, State Sen. Jessica Ramos and colleagues sent a letter to city and state DOTs urging action against the 'demonization' of e-bikes and e-scooters. The letter, signed by Ramos and State Sen. Liz Krueger, demanded more education on safe riding and battery use, warning, 'We cannot allow a narrative to build against a vital, green, and growing mode of transportation.' Ramos criticized City Hall for failing to post speed limits and design streets for e-mobility. Krueger backed battery safety bills, while Councilman Bob Holden pushed for outright bans, citing deaths and injuries. The senators warned that inaction could lead to blanket bans, hitting delivery workers hardest. The city’s plan for safe charging hubs faces local opposition. DOT claims a 'holistic approach,' but vulnerable riders remain at risk as agencies drag their feet.
-
State Pols Call on DOTs to Counter E-Bike ‘Demonization’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-10
SUV Rear-Ends Another on Astoria Boulevard▸Two SUVs collided on Astoria Boulevard. One driver struck from behind. Neck injury and whiplash followed. Police cited traffic control disregard and tailgating. Metal twisted. Danger clear.
According to the police report, two SUVs crashed on Astoria Boulevard. The rear SUV, driven by a 46-year-old woman, hit the back of another SUV that was slowing or stopping. She suffered neck pain and whiplash but remained conscious and was not ejected. Police listed "Traffic Control Disregarded" and "Following Too Closely" as contributing factors. The rear SUV's right front bumper and the front SUV's left rear bumper were damaged. No other injuries or contributing factors were reported.
2SUV Strikes Van on 88 Street Queens▸A 68-year-old male driver and a 49-year-old female passenger were injured in a Queens crash. The SUV hit the van’s right front bumper. Traffic control devices were not working properly. Both occupants suffered internal injuries and remained conscious.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on 88 Street in Queens when a 2022 SUV traveling east struck a 2014 van traveling south. The van was hit on its right front bumper, causing injuries to its two occupants: a 68-year-old male driver with chest injuries and a 49-year-old female front passenger with head injuries. Both were conscious but suffered internal injuries, with the passenger trapped in the vehicle. The report lists "Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working" as contributing factors. No driver errors were specified. The van was damaged on its right front quarter panel, and the SUV sustained damage to its left side doors. Neither occupant was ejected.
Moped Hits Pedestrian Working in Queens▸A moped struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian working in the roadway at 93-21 37 Avenue, Queens. The pedestrian suffered knee and lower leg bruises. Police cited aggressive driving and unsafe speed as contributing factors. The moped showed no damage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling west on 93-21 37 Avenue in Queens struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian who was working in the roadway at an intersection. The pedestrian sustained contusions and bruises to her knee and lower leg and remained conscious after the collision. The report lists aggressive driving and unsafe speed as the primary contributing factors to the crash. The moped was going straight ahead and impacted the pedestrian with its center front end but showed no vehicle damage. No other factors such as helmet use or pedestrian error were noted in the report.
González-Rojas Opposes State Underfunding of MTA Safety‑Harming Budget▸Governor Hochul’s budget dodges state duty. City pays more, gets less. Riders face fare hikes, no better service. State hoards surplus, starves transit. Lawmakers protest. Suburbs dodge taxes. The city shoulders the load. Riders pay the price. Streets stay dangerous.
Governor Hochul’s 2023 state budget proposal, analyzed March 3, 2023, keeps New York State’s long-running refusal to match MTA funding under law 18-b. The budget, now under legislative review, forces New York City to cover a $500 million gap, while the state sits on an $8.7 billion surplus. The matter: 'Hochul's budget not only asks city residents to cover the largest chunk of the MTA's budget gap, but does so in part by continuing long-running practices that essentially under-fund the MTA by millions of dollars each year.' Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and State Sen. Andrew Gounardes both object, demanding the state honor its legal obligations. Riders Alliance and Reinvent Albany condemn the austerity. With fare hikes looming and no service improvements, city transit riders—often pedestrians and cyclists—bear the brunt. The budget leaves vulnerable road users exposed, as transit stagnates and car dominance persists.
-
Analysis: Hochul Turns Her Back on Transit Riders With Her MTA Budget,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-03
Senate backs S 775. The bill defines the ignition interlock monitor’s job. It forces offenders to install devices and obey court orders. Lawmakers act to keep repeat drunk drivers off the street.
Senate bill S 775, titled "Relates to the responsibilities of an ignition interlock monitor," passed committee votes on February 1, March 21, and May 16, 2023. The bill describes the monitor’s role and mandates compliance for those ordered to install ignition interlock devices. Primary sponsor Jeremy Cooney (District 56) led, joined by Nathalia Fernandez, Monica Martinez, and Shelley Mayer. The measure saw broad support, with senators voting yes across multiple sessions. The law aims to keep drivers with violations from endangering others by enforcing strict compliance with court-ordered ignition interlocks.
- File S 775, Open States, Published 2023-03-21
Distracted Driver Crashes Into E-Scooter Rider▸A 28-year-old man on an e-scooter suffered severe injuries after a collision on 31 Avenue in Queens. The driver, distracted and speeding, struck the scooter head-on. The rider fractured and dislocated parts of his body, remaining conscious but badly hurt.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on 31 Avenue in Queens involving an e-scooter and another vehicle. The e-scooter driver, a 28-year-old male, was injured with fractures and dislocations to his entire body but was conscious at the scene. The report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The point of impact was the center front end of both vehicles. The e-scooter driver was not ejected and wore no safety equipment. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and speeding in Queens, resulting in serious injury to a vulnerable road user.
Queens Sedan Hits Pedestrian Walking Highway▸A 55-year-old woman walking along a Queens highway was struck by a northbound sedan. The impact hit her elbow and lower arm, causing bruising. The driver’s vehicle suffered damage to the left side doors. The pedestrian remained conscious.
According to the police report, a 55-year-old female pedestrian was injured while walking along a highway in Queens. She suffered contusions to her elbow and lower arm after being struck by a northbound sedan. The sedan’s left side doors were damaged on impact. The report lists no contributing factors or driver errors such as failure to yield or speeding. The pedestrian was conscious and injured but not ejected. No safety equipment or helmet was noted. The crash occurred near 30-57 70 Street. The driver was licensed and driving straight ahead at the time of collision.
SUV Slams Into Stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard▸A trailing SUV crashed into a stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard. The driver in back, age 61, suffered back pain and whiplash. Police cited following too closely and unsafe speed. Both vehicles showed heavy damage.
According to the police report, a 61-year-old man driving a Jeep SUV rear-ended a stopped Honda SUV on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The trailing driver was injured, reporting back pain and whiplash. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The Jeep was slowing or stopping before impact, while the Honda was stopped in traffic. Both vehicles sustained significant front and rear damage. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
Jessica Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Alternatives▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. Two new bus routes will replace it. Jessica Ramos cheered the move. The AirTrain’s high price and twisted route drew fire. Buses promise faster, cheaper, cleaner rides for millions. Queens riders win. Cars lose.
""This is the right move. My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was. I’m so proud of East Elmhurst for standing up to this bad plan. We still have to look at how to expand transit to those parts of Queens, especially if the proposed football stadium is going to be building what effectively is a new neighborhood in Queens. The 7 alone won’t be able to handle it."" -- Jessica Ramos
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project after an expert panel review. The panel found the $2-billion monorail would not outperform improved bus service. Instead, two new bus routes will serve the airport: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a new non-stop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard using electric buses and transit signal priority. The total cost is about $500 million, far less than any rail option. State Senator Jessica Ramos, district 13, praised the decision, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' The AirTrain faced mounting opposition for its cost, indirect route, and lack of transparency. The new bus plan aims to serve millions of riders annually and can be implemented within two to five years.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2023-03-13
Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Over AirTrain▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. She chose faster, cheaper bus routes instead. The new plan brings electric buses, dedicated lanes, and direct service. Advocates cheered. Queens riders win. The AirTrain dies. Buses roll on.
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul and the Port Authority canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project. The decision followed an expert panel review, which found the $2 billion monorail would not outperform expanded bus service. Instead, the panel recommended two new bus routes: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a nonstop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard to all LaGuardia terminals, using electric buses and transit signal priority. The matter summary states: 'Gov. Hochul and the Port Authority have canceled the controversial Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project, opting instead for two new, improved bus connections to the airport.' State Senator Jessica Ramos welcomed the move, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' Advocates and elected officials praised the shift, though some called for even stronger bus priority and further transit expansion in Queens.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-13
Jessica Ramos Urges Safety Education Opposes E-Bike Bans▸State senators pressed DOTs to fight e-bike stigma and protect riders. They called for education, better battery rules, and fair treatment for delivery workers. City Hall’s inaction leaves e-bike users exposed. Bans loom while agencies stall. Vulnerable riders pay the price.
On March 2, 2023, State Sen. Jessica Ramos and colleagues sent a letter to city and state DOTs urging action against the 'demonization' of e-bikes and e-scooters. The letter, signed by Ramos and State Sen. Liz Krueger, demanded more education on safe riding and battery use, warning, 'We cannot allow a narrative to build against a vital, green, and growing mode of transportation.' Ramos criticized City Hall for failing to post speed limits and design streets for e-mobility. Krueger backed battery safety bills, while Councilman Bob Holden pushed for outright bans, citing deaths and injuries. The senators warned that inaction could lead to blanket bans, hitting delivery workers hardest. The city’s plan for safe charging hubs faces local opposition. DOT claims a 'holistic approach,' but vulnerable riders remain at risk as agencies drag their feet.
-
State Pols Call on DOTs to Counter E-Bike ‘Demonization’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-10
SUV Rear-Ends Another on Astoria Boulevard▸Two SUVs collided on Astoria Boulevard. One driver struck from behind. Neck injury and whiplash followed. Police cited traffic control disregard and tailgating. Metal twisted. Danger clear.
According to the police report, two SUVs crashed on Astoria Boulevard. The rear SUV, driven by a 46-year-old woman, hit the back of another SUV that was slowing or stopping. She suffered neck pain and whiplash but remained conscious and was not ejected. Police listed "Traffic Control Disregarded" and "Following Too Closely" as contributing factors. The rear SUV's right front bumper and the front SUV's left rear bumper were damaged. No other injuries or contributing factors were reported.
2SUV Strikes Van on 88 Street Queens▸A 68-year-old male driver and a 49-year-old female passenger were injured in a Queens crash. The SUV hit the van’s right front bumper. Traffic control devices were not working properly. Both occupants suffered internal injuries and remained conscious.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on 88 Street in Queens when a 2022 SUV traveling east struck a 2014 van traveling south. The van was hit on its right front bumper, causing injuries to its two occupants: a 68-year-old male driver with chest injuries and a 49-year-old female front passenger with head injuries. Both were conscious but suffered internal injuries, with the passenger trapped in the vehicle. The report lists "Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working" as contributing factors. No driver errors were specified. The van was damaged on its right front quarter panel, and the SUV sustained damage to its left side doors. Neither occupant was ejected.
Moped Hits Pedestrian Working in Queens▸A moped struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian working in the roadway at 93-21 37 Avenue, Queens. The pedestrian suffered knee and lower leg bruises. Police cited aggressive driving and unsafe speed as contributing factors. The moped showed no damage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling west on 93-21 37 Avenue in Queens struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian who was working in the roadway at an intersection. The pedestrian sustained contusions and bruises to her knee and lower leg and remained conscious after the collision. The report lists aggressive driving and unsafe speed as the primary contributing factors to the crash. The moped was going straight ahead and impacted the pedestrian with its center front end but showed no vehicle damage. No other factors such as helmet use or pedestrian error were noted in the report.
González-Rojas Opposes State Underfunding of MTA Safety‑Harming Budget▸Governor Hochul’s budget dodges state duty. City pays more, gets less. Riders face fare hikes, no better service. State hoards surplus, starves transit. Lawmakers protest. Suburbs dodge taxes. The city shoulders the load. Riders pay the price. Streets stay dangerous.
Governor Hochul’s 2023 state budget proposal, analyzed March 3, 2023, keeps New York State’s long-running refusal to match MTA funding under law 18-b. The budget, now under legislative review, forces New York City to cover a $500 million gap, while the state sits on an $8.7 billion surplus. The matter: 'Hochul's budget not only asks city residents to cover the largest chunk of the MTA's budget gap, but does so in part by continuing long-running practices that essentially under-fund the MTA by millions of dollars each year.' Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and State Sen. Andrew Gounardes both object, demanding the state honor its legal obligations. Riders Alliance and Reinvent Albany condemn the austerity. With fare hikes looming and no service improvements, city transit riders—often pedestrians and cyclists—bear the brunt. The budget leaves vulnerable road users exposed, as transit stagnates and car dominance persists.
-
Analysis: Hochul Turns Her Back on Transit Riders With Her MTA Budget,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-03
A 28-year-old man on an e-scooter suffered severe injuries after a collision on 31 Avenue in Queens. The driver, distracted and speeding, struck the scooter head-on. The rider fractured and dislocated parts of his body, remaining conscious but badly hurt.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on 31 Avenue in Queens involving an e-scooter and another vehicle. The e-scooter driver, a 28-year-old male, was injured with fractures and dislocations to his entire body but was conscious at the scene. The report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The point of impact was the center front end of both vehicles. The e-scooter driver was not ejected and wore no safety equipment. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving and speeding in Queens, resulting in serious injury to a vulnerable road user.
Queens Sedan Hits Pedestrian Walking Highway▸A 55-year-old woman walking along a Queens highway was struck by a northbound sedan. The impact hit her elbow and lower arm, causing bruising. The driver’s vehicle suffered damage to the left side doors. The pedestrian remained conscious.
According to the police report, a 55-year-old female pedestrian was injured while walking along a highway in Queens. She suffered contusions to her elbow and lower arm after being struck by a northbound sedan. The sedan’s left side doors were damaged on impact. The report lists no contributing factors or driver errors such as failure to yield or speeding. The pedestrian was conscious and injured but not ejected. No safety equipment or helmet was noted. The crash occurred near 30-57 70 Street. The driver was licensed and driving straight ahead at the time of collision.
SUV Slams Into Stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard▸A trailing SUV crashed into a stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard. The driver in back, age 61, suffered back pain and whiplash. Police cited following too closely and unsafe speed. Both vehicles showed heavy damage.
According to the police report, a 61-year-old man driving a Jeep SUV rear-ended a stopped Honda SUV on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The trailing driver was injured, reporting back pain and whiplash. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The Jeep was slowing or stopping before impact, while the Honda was stopped in traffic. Both vehicles sustained significant front and rear damage. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
Jessica Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Alternatives▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. Two new bus routes will replace it. Jessica Ramos cheered the move. The AirTrain’s high price and twisted route drew fire. Buses promise faster, cheaper, cleaner rides for millions. Queens riders win. Cars lose.
""This is the right move. My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was. I’m so proud of East Elmhurst for standing up to this bad plan. We still have to look at how to expand transit to those parts of Queens, especially if the proposed football stadium is going to be building what effectively is a new neighborhood in Queens. The 7 alone won’t be able to handle it."" -- Jessica Ramos
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project after an expert panel review. The panel found the $2-billion monorail would not outperform improved bus service. Instead, two new bus routes will serve the airport: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a new non-stop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard using electric buses and transit signal priority. The total cost is about $500 million, far less than any rail option. State Senator Jessica Ramos, district 13, praised the decision, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' The AirTrain faced mounting opposition for its cost, indirect route, and lack of transparency. The new bus plan aims to serve millions of riders annually and can be implemented within two to five years.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2023-03-13
Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Over AirTrain▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. She chose faster, cheaper bus routes instead. The new plan brings electric buses, dedicated lanes, and direct service. Advocates cheered. Queens riders win. The AirTrain dies. Buses roll on.
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul and the Port Authority canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project. The decision followed an expert panel review, which found the $2 billion monorail would not outperform expanded bus service. Instead, the panel recommended two new bus routes: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a nonstop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard to all LaGuardia terminals, using electric buses and transit signal priority. The matter summary states: 'Gov. Hochul and the Port Authority have canceled the controversial Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project, opting instead for two new, improved bus connections to the airport.' State Senator Jessica Ramos welcomed the move, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' Advocates and elected officials praised the shift, though some called for even stronger bus priority and further transit expansion in Queens.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-13
Jessica Ramos Urges Safety Education Opposes E-Bike Bans▸State senators pressed DOTs to fight e-bike stigma and protect riders. They called for education, better battery rules, and fair treatment for delivery workers. City Hall’s inaction leaves e-bike users exposed. Bans loom while agencies stall. Vulnerable riders pay the price.
On March 2, 2023, State Sen. Jessica Ramos and colleagues sent a letter to city and state DOTs urging action against the 'demonization' of e-bikes and e-scooters. The letter, signed by Ramos and State Sen. Liz Krueger, demanded more education on safe riding and battery use, warning, 'We cannot allow a narrative to build against a vital, green, and growing mode of transportation.' Ramos criticized City Hall for failing to post speed limits and design streets for e-mobility. Krueger backed battery safety bills, while Councilman Bob Holden pushed for outright bans, citing deaths and injuries. The senators warned that inaction could lead to blanket bans, hitting delivery workers hardest. The city’s plan for safe charging hubs faces local opposition. DOT claims a 'holistic approach,' but vulnerable riders remain at risk as agencies drag their feet.
-
State Pols Call on DOTs to Counter E-Bike ‘Demonization’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-10
SUV Rear-Ends Another on Astoria Boulevard▸Two SUVs collided on Astoria Boulevard. One driver struck from behind. Neck injury and whiplash followed. Police cited traffic control disregard and tailgating. Metal twisted. Danger clear.
According to the police report, two SUVs crashed on Astoria Boulevard. The rear SUV, driven by a 46-year-old woman, hit the back of another SUV that was slowing or stopping. She suffered neck pain and whiplash but remained conscious and was not ejected. Police listed "Traffic Control Disregarded" and "Following Too Closely" as contributing factors. The rear SUV's right front bumper and the front SUV's left rear bumper were damaged. No other injuries or contributing factors were reported.
2SUV Strikes Van on 88 Street Queens▸A 68-year-old male driver and a 49-year-old female passenger were injured in a Queens crash. The SUV hit the van’s right front bumper. Traffic control devices were not working properly. Both occupants suffered internal injuries and remained conscious.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on 88 Street in Queens when a 2022 SUV traveling east struck a 2014 van traveling south. The van was hit on its right front bumper, causing injuries to its two occupants: a 68-year-old male driver with chest injuries and a 49-year-old female front passenger with head injuries. Both were conscious but suffered internal injuries, with the passenger trapped in the vehicle. The report lists "Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working" as contributing factors. No driver errors were specified. The van was damaged on its right front quarter panel, and the SUV sustained damage to its left side doors. Neither occupant was ejected.
Moped Hits Pedestrian Working in Queens▸A moped struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian working in the roadway at 93-21 37 Avenue, Queens. The pedestrian suffered knee and lower leg bruises. Police cited aggressive driving and unsafe speed as contributing factors. The moped showed no damage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling west on 93-21 37 Avenue in Queens struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian who was working in the roadway at an intersection. The pedestrian sustained contusions and bruises to her knee and lower leg and remained conscious after the collision. The report lists aggressive driving and unsafe speed as the primary contributing factors to the crash. The moped was going straight ahead and impacted the pedestrian with its center front end but showed no vehicle damage. No other factors such as helmet use or pedestrian error were noted in the report.
González-Rojas Opposes State Underfunding of MTA Safety‑Harming Budget▸Governor Hochul’s budget dodges state duty. City pays more, gets less. Riders face fare hikes, no better service. State hoards surplus, starves transit. Lawmakers protest. Suburbs dodge taxes. The city shoulders the load. Riders pay the price. Streets stay dangerous.
Governor Hochul’s 2023 state budget proposal, analyzed March 3, 2023, keeps New York State’s long-running refusal to match MTA funding under law 18-b. The budget, now under legislative review, forces New York City to cover a $500 million gap, while the state sits on an $8.7 billion surplus. The matter: 'Hochul's budget not only asks city residents to cover the largest chunk of the MTA's budget gap, but does so in part by continuing long-running practices that essentially under-fund the MTA by millions of dollars each year.' Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and State Sen. Andrew Gounardes both object, demanding the state honor its legal obligations. Riders Alliance and Reinvent Albany condemn the austerity. With fare hikes looming and no service improvements, city transit riders—often pedestrians and cyclists—bear the brunt. The budget leaves vulnerable road users exposed, as transit stagnates and car dominance persists.
-
Analysis: Hochul Turns Her Back on Transit Riders With Her MTA Budget,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-03
A 55-year-old woman walking along a Queens highway was struck by a northbound sedan. The impact hit her elbow and lower arm, causing bruising. The driver’s vehicle suffered damage to the left side doors. The pedestrian remained conscious.
According to the police report, a 55-year-old female pedestrian was injured while walking along a highway in Queens. She suffered contusions to her elbow and lower arm after being struck by a northbound sedan. The sedan’s left side doors were damaged on impact. The report lists no contributing factors or driver errors such as failure to yield or speeding. The pedestrian was conscious and injured but not ejected. No safety equipment or helmet was noted. The crash occurred near 30-57 70 Street. The driver was licensed and driving straight ahead at the time of collision.
SUV Slams Into Stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard▸A trailing SUV crashed into a stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard. The driver in back, age 61, suffered back pain and whiplash. Police cited following too closely and unsafe speed. Both vehicles showed heavy damage.
According to the police report, a 61-year-old man driving a Jeep SUV rear-ended a stopped Honda SUV on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The trailing driver was injured, reporting back pain and whiplash. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The Jeep was slowing or stopping before impact, while the Honda was stopped in traffic. Both vehicles sustained significant front and rear damage. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
Jessica Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Alternatives▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. Two new bus routes will replace it. Jessica Ramos cheered the move. The AirTrain’s high price and twisted route drew fire. Buses promise faster, cheaper, cleaner rides for millions. Queens riders win. Cars lose.
""This is the right move. My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was. I’m so proud of East Elmhurst for standing up to this bad plan. We still have to look at how to expand transit to those parts of Queens, especially if the proposed football stadium is going to be building what effectively is a new neighborhood in Queens. The 7 alone won’t be able to handle it."" -- Jessica Ramos
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project after an expert panel review. The panel found the $2-billion monorail would not outperform improved bus service. Instead, two new bus routes will serve the airport: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a new non-stop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard using electric buses and transit signal priority. The total cost is about $500 million, far less than any rail option. State Senator Jessica Ramos, district 13, praised the decision, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' The AirTrain faced mounting opposition for its cost, indirect route, and lack of transparency. The new bus plan aims to serve millions of riders annually and can be implemented within two to five years.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2023-03-13
Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Over AirTrain▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. She chose faster, cheaper bus routes instead. The new plan brings electric buses, dedicated lanes, and direct service. Advocates cheered. Queens riders win. The AirTrain dies. Buses roll on.
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul and the Port Authority canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project. The decision followed an expert panel review, which found the $2 billion monorail would not outperform expanded bus service. Instead, the panel recommended two new bus routes: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a nonstop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard to all LaGuardia terminals, using electric buses and transit signal priority. The matter summary states: 'Gov. Hochul and the Port Authority have canceled the controversial Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project, opting instead for two new, improved bus connections to the airport.' State Senator Jessica Ramos welcomed the move, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' Advocates and elected officials praised the shift, though some called for even stronger bus priority and further transit expansion in Queens.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-13
Jessica Ramos Urges Safety Education Opposes E-Bike Bans▸State senators pressed DOTs to fight e-bike stigma and protect riders. They called for education, better battery rules, and fair treatment for delivery workers. City Hall’s inaction leaves e-bike users exposed. Bans loom while agencies stall. Vulnerable riders pay the price.
On March 2, 2023, State Sen. Jessica Ramos and colleagues sent a letter to city and state DOTs urging action against the 'demonization' of e-bikes and e-scooters. The letter, signed by Ramos and State Sen. Liz Krueger, demanded more education on safe riding and battery use, warning, 'We cannot allow a narrative to build against a vital, green, and growing mode of transportation.' Ramos criticized City Hall for failing to post speed limits and design streets for e-mobility. Krueger backed battery safety bills, while Councilman Bob Holden pushed for outright bans, citing deaths and injuries. The senators warned that inaction could lead to blanket bans, hitting delivery workers hardest. The city’s plan for safe charging hubs faces local opposition. DOT claims a 'holistic approach,' but vulnerable riders remain at risk as agencies drag their feet.
-
State Pols Call on DOTs to Counter E-Bike ‘Demonization’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-10
SUV Rear-Ends Another on Astoria Boulevard▸Two SUVs collided on Astoria Boulevard. One driver struck from behind. Neck injury and whiplash followed. Police cited traffic control disregard and tailgating. Metal twisted. Danger clear.
According to the police report, two SUVs crashed on Astoria Boulevard. The rear SUV, driven by a 46-year-old woman, hit the back of another SUV that was slowing or stopping. She suffered neck pain and whiplash but remained conscious and was not ejected. Police listed "Traffic Control Disregarded" and "Following Too Closely" as contributing factors. The rear SUV's right front bumper and the front SUV's left rear bumper were damaged. No other injuries or contributing factors were reported.
2SUV Strikes Van on 88 Street Queens▸A 68-year-old male driver and a 49-year-old female passenger were injured in a Queens crash. The SUV hit the van’s right front bumper. Traffic control devices were not working properly. Both occupants suffered internal injuries and remained conscious.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on 88 Street in Queens when a 2022 SUV traveling east struck a 2014 van traveling south. The van was hit on its right front bumper, causing injuries to its two occupants: a 68-year-old male driver with chest injuries and a 49-year-old female front passenger with head injuries. Both were conscious but suffered internal injuries, with the passenger trapped in the vehicle. The report lists "Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working" as contributing factors. No driver errors were specified. The van was damaged on its right front quarter panel, and the SUV sustained damage to its left side doors. Neither occupant was ejected.
Moped Hits Pedestrian Working in Queens▸A moped struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian working in the roadway at 93-21 37 Avenue, Queens. The pedestrian suffered knee and lower leg bruises. Police cited aggressive driving and unsafe speed as contributing factors. The moped showed no damage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling west on 93-21 37 Avenue in Queens struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian who was working in the roadway at an intersection. The pedestrian sustained contusions and bruises to her knee and lower leg and remained conscious after the collision. The report lists aggressive driving and unsafe speed as the primary contributing factors to the crash. The moped was going straight ahead and impacted the pedestrian with its center front end but showed no vehicle damage. No other factors such as helmet use or pedestrian error were noted in the report.
González-Rojas Opposes State Underfunding of MTA Safety‑Harming Budget▸Governor Hochul’s budget dodges state duty. City pays more, gets less. Riders face fare hikes, no better service. State hoards surplus, starves transit. Lawmakers protest. Suburbs dodge taxes. The city shoulders the load. Riders pay the price. Streets stay dangerous.
Governor Hochul’s 2023 state budget proposal, analyzed March 3, 2023, keeps New York State’s long-running refusal to match MTA funding under law 18-b. The budget, now under legislative review, forces New York City to cover a $500 million gap, while the state sits on an $8.7 billion surplus. The matter: 'Hochul's budget not only asks city residents to cover the largest chunk of the MTA's budget gap, but does so in part by continuing long-running practices that essentially under-fund the MTA by millions of dollars each year.' Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and State Sen. Andrew Gounardes both object, demanding the state honor its legal obligations. Riders Alliance and Reinvent Albany condemn the austerity. With fare hikes looming and no service improvements, city transit riders—often pedestrians and cyclists—bear the brunt. The budget leaves vulnerable road users exposed, as transit stagnates and car dominance persists.
-
Analysis: Hochul Turns Her Back on Transit Riders With Her MTA Budget,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-03
A trailing SUV crashed into a stopped SUV on Northern Boulevard. The driver in back, age 61, suffered back pain and whiplash. Police cited following too closely and unsafe speed. Both vehicles showed heavy damage.
According to the police report, a 61-year-old man driving a Jeep SUV rear-ended a stopped Honda SUV on Northern Boulevard in Queens. The trailing driver was injured, reporting back pain and whiplash. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors. The Jeep was slowing or stopping before impact, while the Honda was stopped in traffic. Both vehicles sustained significant front and rear damage. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
Jessica Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Alternatives▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. Two new bus routes will replace it. Jessica Ramos cheered the move. The AirTrain’s high price and twisted route drew fire. Buses promise faster, cheaper, cleaner rides for millions. Queens riders win. Cars lose.
""This is the right move. My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was. I’m so proud of East Elmhurst for standing up to this bad plan. We still have to look at how to expand transit to those parts of Queens, especially if the proposed football stadium is going to be building what effectively is a new neighborhood in Queens. The 7 alone won’t be able to handle it."" -- Jessica Ramos
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project after an expert panel review. The panel found the $2-billion monorail would not outperform improved bus service. Instead, two new bus routes will serve the airport: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a new non-stop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard using electric buses and transit signal priority. The total cost is about $500 million, far less than any rail option. State Senator Jessica Ramos, district 13, praised the decision, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' The AirTrain faced mounting opposition for its cost, indirect route, and lack of transparency. The new bus plan aims to serve millions of riders annually and can be implemented within two to five years.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2023-03-13
Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Over AirTrain▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. She chose faster, cheaper bus routes instead. The new plan brings electric buses, dedicated lanes, and direct service. Advocates cheered. Queens riders win. The AirTrain dies. Buses roll on.
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul and the Port Authority canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project. The decision followed an expert panel review, which found the $2 billion monorail would not outperform expanded bus service. Instead, the panel recommended two new bus routes: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a nonstop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard to all LaGuardia terminals, using electric buses and transit signal priority. The matter summary states: 'Gov. Hochul and the Port Authority have canceled the controversial Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project, opting instead for two new, improved bus connections to the airport.' State Senator Jessica Ramos welcomed the move, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' Advocates and elected officials praised the shift, though some called for even stronger bus priority and further transit expansion in Queens.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-13
Jessica Ramos Urges Safety Education Opposes E-Bike Bans▸State senators pressed DOTs to fight e-bike stigma and protect riders. They called for education, better battery rules, and fair treatment for delivery workers. City Hall’s inaction leaves e-bike users exposed. Bans loom while agencies stall. Vulnerable riders pay the price.
On March 2, 2023, State Sen. Jessica Ramos and colleagues sent a letter to city and state DOTs urging action against the 'demonization' of e-bikes and e-scooters. The letter, signed by Ramos and State Sen. Liz Krueger, demanded more education on safe riding and battery use, warning, 'We cannot allow a narrative to build against a vital, green, and growing mode of transportation.' Ramos criticized City Hall for failing to post speed limits and design streets for e-mobility. Krueger backed battery safety bills, while Councilman Bob Holden pushed for outright bans, citing deaths and injuries. The senators warned that inaction could lead to blanket bans, hitting delivery workers hardest. The city’s plan for safe charging hubs faces local opposition. DOT claims a 'holistic approach,' but vulnerable riders remain at risk as agencies drag their feet.
-
State Pols Call on DOTs to Counter E-Bike ‘Demonization’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-10
SUV Rear-Ends Another on Astoria Boulevard▸Two SUVs collided on Astoria Boulevard. One driver struck from behind. Neck injury and whiplash followed. Police cited traffic control disregard and tailgating. Metal twisted. Danger clear.
According to the police report, two SUVs crashed on Astoria Boulevard. The rear SUV, driven by a 46-year-old woman, hit the back of another SUV that was slowing or stopping. She suffered neck pain and whiplash but remained conscious and was not ejected. Police listed "Traffic Control Disregarded" and "Following Too Closely" as contributing factors. The rear SUV's right front bumper and the front SUV's left rear bumper were damaged. No other injuries or contributing factors were reported.
2SUV Strikes Van on 88 Street Queens▸A 68-year-old male driver and a 49-year-old female passenger were injured in a Queens crash. The SUV hit the van’s right front bumper. Traffic control devices were not working properly. Both occupants suffered internal injuries and remained conscious.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on 88 Street in Queens when a 2022 SUV traveling east struck a 2014 van traveling south. The van was hit on its right front bumper, causing injuries to its two occupants: a 68-year-old male driver with chest injuries and a 49-year-old female front passenger with head injuries. Both were conscious but suffered internal injuries, with the passenger trapped in the vehicle. The report lists "Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working" as contributing factors. No driver errors were specified. The van was damaged on its right front quarter panel, and the SUV sustained damage to its left side doors. Neither occupant was ejected.
Moped Hits Pedestrian Working in Queens▸A moped struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian working in the roadway at 93-21 37 Avenue, Queens. The pedestrian suffered knee and lower leg bruises. Police cited aggressive driving and unsafe speed as contributing factors. The moped showed no damage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling west on 93-21 37 Avenue in Queens struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian who was working in the roadway at an intersection. The pedestrian sustained contusions and bruises to her knee and lower leg and remained conscious after the collision. The report lists aggressive driving and unsafe speed as the primary contributing factors to the crash. The moped was going straight ahead and impacted the pedestrian with its center front end but showed no vehicle damage. No other factors such as helmet use or pedestrian error were noted in the report.
González-Rojas Opposes State Underfunding of MTA Safety‑Harming Budget▸Governor Hochul’s budget dodges state duty. City pays more, gets less. Riders face fare hikes, no better service. State hoards surplus, starves transit. Lawmakers protest. Suburbs dodge taxes. The city shoulders the load. Riders pay the price. Streets stay dangerous.
Governor Hochul’s 2023 state budget proposal, analyzed March 3, 2023, keeps New York State’s long-running refusal to match MTA funding under law 18-b. The budget, now under legislative review, forces New York City to cover a $500 million gap, while the state sits on an $8.7 billion surplus. The matter: 'Hochul's budget not only asks city residents to cover the largest chunk of the MTA's budget gap, but does so in part by continuing long-running practices that essentially under-fund the MTA by millions of dollars each year.' Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and State Sen. Andrew Gounardes both object, demanding the state honor its legal obligations. Riders Alliance and Reinvent Albany condemn the austerity. With fare hikes looming and no service improvements, city transit riders—often pedestrians and cyclists—bear the brunt. The budget leaves vulnerable road users exposed, as transit stagnates and car dominance persists.
-
Analysis: Hochul Turns Her Back on Transit Riders With Her MTA Budget,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-03
Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. Two new bus routes will replace it. Jessica Ramos cheered the move. The AirTrain’s high price and twisted route drew fire. Buses promise faster, cheaper, cleaner rides for millions. Queens riders win. Cars lose.
""This is the right move. My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was. I’m so proud of East Elmhurst for standing up to this bad plan. We still have to look at how to expand transit to those parts of Queens, especially if the proposed football stadium is going to be building what effectively is a new neighborhood in Queens. The 7 alone won’t be able to handle it."" -- Jessica Ramos
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project after an expert panel review. The panel found the $2-billion monorail would not outperform improved bus service. Instead, two new bus routes will serve the airport: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a new non-stop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard using electric buses and transit signal priority. The total cost is about $500 million, far less than any rail option. State Senator Jessica Ramos, district 13, praised the decision, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' The AirTrain faced mounting opposition for its cost, indirect route, and lack of transparency. The new bus plan aims to serve millions of riders annually and can be implemented within two to five years.
- Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!, streetsblog.org, Published 2023-03-13
Ramos Supports Safety Boosting Bus Transit Over AirTrain▸Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. She chose faster, cheaper bus routes instead. The new plan brings electric buses, dedicated lanes, and direct service. Advocates cheered. Queens riders win. The AirTrain dies. Buses roll on.
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul and the Port Authority canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project. The decision followed an expert panel review, which found the $2 billion monorail would not outperform expanded bus service. Instead, the panel recommended two new bus routes: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a nonstop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard to all LaGuardia terminals, using electric buses and transit signal priority. The matter summary states: 'Gov. Hochul and the Port Authority have canceled the controversial Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project, opting instead for two new, improved bus connections to the airport.' State Senator Jessica Ramos welcomed the move, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' Advocates and elected officials praised the shift, though some called for even stronger bus priority and further transit expansion in Queens.
-
Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-13
Jessica Ramos Urges Safety Education Opposes E-Bike Bans▸State senators pressed DOTs to fight e-bike stigma and protect riders. They called for education, better battery rules, and fair treatment for delivery workers. City Hall’s inaction leaves e-bike users exposed. Bans loom while agencies stall. Vulnerable riders pay the price.
On March 2, 2023, State Sen. Jessica Ramos and colleagues sent a letter to city and state DOTs urging action against the 'demonization' of e-bikes and e-scooters. The letter, signed by Ramos and State Sen. Liz Krueger, demanded more education on safe riding and battery use, warning, 'We cannot allow a narrative to build against a vital, green, and growing mode of transportation.' Ramos criticized City Hall for failing to post speed limits and design streets for e-mobility. Krueger backed battery safety bills, while Councilman Bob Holden pushed for outright bans, citing deaths and injuries. The senators warned that inaction could lead to blanket bans, hitting delivery workers hardest. The city’s plan for safe charging hubs faces local opposition. DOT claims a 'holistic approach,' but vulnerable riders remain at risk as agencies drag their feet.
-
State Pols Call on DOTs to Counter E-Bike ‘Demonization’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-10
SUV Rear-Ends Another on Astoria Boulevard▸Two SUVs collided on Astoria Boulevard. One driver struck from behind. Neck injury and whiplash followed. Police cited traffic control disregard and tailgating. Metal twisted. Danger clear.
According to the police report, two SUVs crashed on Astoria Boulevard. The rear SUV, driven by a 46-year-old woman, hit the back of another SUV that was slowing or stopping. She suffered neck pain and whiplash but remained conscious and was not ejected. Police listed "Traffic Control Disregarded" and "Following Too Closely" as contributing factors. The rear SUV's right front bumper and the front SUV's left rear bumper were damaged. No other injuries or contributing factors were reported.
2SUV Strikes Van on 88 Street Queens▸A 68-year-old male driver and a 49-year-old female passenger were injured in a Queens crash. The SUV hit the van’s right front bumper. Traffic control devices were not working properly. Both occupants suffered internal injuries and remained conscious.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on 88 Street in Queens when a 2022 SUV traveling east struck a 2014 van traveling south. The van was hit on its right front bumper, causing injuries to its two occupants: a 68-year-old male driver with chest injuries and a 49-year-old female front passenger with head injuries. Both were conscious but suffered internal injuries, with the passenger trapped in the vehicle. The report lists "Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working" as contributing factors. No driver errors were specified. The van was damaged on its right front quarter panel, and the SUV sustained damage to its left side doors. Neither occupant was ejected.
Moped Hits Pedestrian Working in Queens▸A moped struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian working in the roadway at 93-21 37 Avenue, Queens. The pedestrian suffered knee and lower leg bruises. Police cited aggressive driving and unsafe speed as contributing factors. The moped showed no damage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling west on 93-21 37 Avenue in Queens struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian who was working in the roadway at an intersection. The pedestrian sustained contusions and bruises to her knee and lower leg and remained conscious after the collision. The report lists aggressive driving and unsafe speed as the primary contributing factors to the crash. The moped was going straight ahead and impacted the pedestrian with its center front end but showed no vehicle damage. No other factors such as helmet use or pedestrian error were noted in the report.
González-Rojas Opposes State Underfunding of MTA Safety‑Harming Budget▸Governor Hochul’s budget dodges state duty. City pays more, gets less. Riders face fare hikes, no better service. State hoards surplus, starves transit. Lawmakers protest. Suburbs dodge taxes. The city shoulders the load. Riders pay the price. Streets stay dangerous.
Governor Hochul’s 2023 state budget proposal, analyzed March 3, 2023, keeps New York State’s long-running refusal to match MTA funding under law 18-b. The budget, now under legislative review, forces New York City to cover a $500 million gap, while the state sits on an $8.7 billion surplus. The matter: 'Hochul's budget not only asks city residents to cover the largest chunk of the MTA's budget gap, but does so in part by continuing long-running practices that essentially under-fund the MTA by millions of dollars each year.' Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and State Sen. Andrew Gounardes both object, demanding the state honor its legal obligations. Riders Alliance and Reinvent Albany condemn the austerity. With fare hikes looming and no service improvements, city transit riders—often pedestrians and cyclists—bear the brunt. The budget leaves vulnerable road users exposed, as transit stagnates and car dominance persists.
-
Analysis: Hochul Turns Her Back on Transit Riders With Her MTA Budget,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-03
Governor Hochul killed the costly LaGuardia AirTrain. She chose faster, cheaper bus routes instead. The new plan brings electric buses, dedicated lanes, and direct service. Advocates cheered. Queens riders win. The AirTrain dies. Buses roll on.
On March 13, 2023, Governor Hochul and the Port Authority canceled the Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project. The decision followed an expert panel review, which found the $2 billion monorail would not outperform expanded bus service. Instead, the panel recommended two new bus routes: an upgraded Q70 Select Bus Service with a dedicated BQE lane, and a nonstop bus rapid transit line from Astoria-Ditmars Boulevard to all LaGuardia terminals, using electric buses and transit signal priority. The matter summary states: 'Gov. Hochul and the Port Authority have canceled the controversial Cuomo-era LaGuardia AirTrain project, opting instead for two new, improved bus connections to the airport.' State Senator Jessica Ramos welcomed the move, saying, 'My neighbors who live around LaGuardia deserve transit that is for them, not whatever that boondoggle was.' Advocates and elected officials praised the shift, though some called for even stronger bus priority and further transit expansion in Queens.
- Hochul Scraps ‘Wrong Way’ AirTrain for Thrilling New Tech — The Bus!, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2023-03-13
Jessica Ramos Urges Safety Education Opposes E-Bike Bans▸State senators pressed DOTs to fight e-bike stigma and protect riders. They called for education, better battery rules, and fair treatment for delivery workers. City Hall’s inaction leaves e-bike users exposed. Bans loom while agencies stall. Vulnerable riders pay the price.
On March 2, 2023, State Sen. Jessica Ramos and colleagues sent a letter to city and state DOTs urging action against the 'demonization' of e-bikes and e-scooters. The letter, signed by Ramos and State Sen. Liz Krueger, demanded more education on safe riding and battery use, warning, 'We cannot allow a narrative to build against a vital, green, and growing mode of transportation.' Ramos criticized City Hall for failing to post speed limits and design streets for e-mobility. Krueger backed battery safety bills, while Councilman Bob Holden pushed for outright bans, citing deaths and injuries. The senators warned that inaction could lead to blanket bans, hitting delivery workers hardest. The city’s plan for safe charging hubs faces local opposition. DOT claims a 'holistic approach,' but vulnerable riders remain at risk as agencies drag their feet.
-
State Pols Call on DOTs to Counter E-Bike ‘Demonization’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-10
SUV Rear-Ends Another on Astoria Boulevard▸Two SUVs collided on Astoria Boulevard. One driver struck from behind. Neck injury and whiplash followed. Police cited traffic control disregard and tailgating. Metal twisted. Danger clear.
According to the police report, two SUVs crashed on Astoria Boulevard. The rear SUV, driven by a 46-year-old woman, hit the back of another SUV that was slowing or stopping. She suffered neck pain and whiplash but remained conscious and was not ejected. Police listed "Traffic Control Disregarded" and "Following Too Closely" as contributing factors. The rear SUV's right front bumper and the front SUV's left rear bumper were damaged. No other injuries or contributing factors were reported.
2SUV Strikes Van on 88 Street Queens▸A 68-year-old male driver and a 49-year-old female passenger were injured in a Queens crash. The SUV hit the van’s right front bumper. Traffic control devices were not working properly. Both occupants suffered internal injuries and remained conscious.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on 88 Street in Queens when a 2022 SUV traveling east struck a 2014 van traveling south. The van was hit on its right front bumper, causing injuries to its two occupants: a 68-year-old male driver with chest injuries and a 49-year-old female front passenger with head injuries. Both were conscious but suffered internal injuries, with the passenger trapped in the vehicle. The report lists "Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working" as contributing factors. No driver errors were specified. The van was damaged on its right front quarter panel, and the SUV sustained damage to its left side doors. Neither occupant was ejected.
Moped Hits Pedestrian Working in Queens▸A moped struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian working in the roadway at 93-21 37 Avenue, Queens. The pedestrian suffered knee and lower leg bruises. Police cited aggressive driving and unsafe speed as contributing factors. The moped showed no damage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling west on 93-21 37 Avenue in Queens struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian who was working in the roadway at an intersection. The pedestrian sustained contusions and bruises to her knee and lower leg and remained conscious after the collision. The report lists aggressive driving and unsafe speed as the primary contributing factors to the crash. The moped was going straight ahead and impacted the pedestrian with its center front end but showed no vehicle damage. No other factors such as helmet use or pedestrian error were noted in the report.
González-Rojas Opposes State Underfunding of MTA Safety‑Harming Budget▸Governor Hochul’s budget dodges state duty. City pays more, gets less. Riders face fare hikes, no better service. State hoards surplus, starves transit. Lawmakers protest. Suburbs dodge taxes. The city shoulders the load. Riders pay the price. Streets stay dangerous.
Governor Hochul’s 2023 state budget proposal, analyzed March 3, 2023, keeps New York State’s long-running refusal to match MTA funding under law 18-b. The budget, now under legislative review, forces New York City to cover a $500 million gap, while the state sits on an $8.7 billion surplus. The matter: 'Hochul's budget not only asks city residents to cover the largest chunk of the MTA's budget gap, but does so in part by continuing long-running practices that essentially under-fund the MTA by millions of dollars each year.' Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and State Sen. Andrew Gounardes both object, demanding the state honor its legal obligations. Riders Alliance and Reinvent Albany condemn the austerity. With fare hikes looming and no service improvements, city transit riders—often pedestrians and cyclists—bear the brunt. The budget leaves vulnerable road users exposed, as transit stagnates and car dominance persists.
-
Analysis: Hochul Turns Her Back on Transit Riders With Her MTA Budget,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-03
State senators pressed DOTs to fight e-bike stigma and protect riders. They called for education, better battery rules, and fair treatment for delivery workers. City Hall’s inaction leaves e-bike users exposed. Bans loom while agencies stall. Vulnerable riders pay the price.
On March 2, 2023, State Sen. Jessica Ramos and colleagues sent a letter to city and state DOTs urging action against the 'demonization' of e-bikes and e-scooters. The letter, signed by Ramos and State Sen. Liz Krueger, demanded more education on safe riding and battery use, warning, 'We cannot allow a narrative to build against a vital, green, and growing mode of transportation.' Ramos criticized City Hall for failing to post speed limits and design streets for e-mobility. Krueger backed battery safety bills, while Councilman Bob Holden pushed for outright bans, citing deaths and injuries. The senators warned that inaction could lead to blanket bans, hitting delivery workers hardest. The city’s plan for safe charging hubs faces local opposition. DOT claims a 'holistic approach,' but vulnerable riders remain at risk as agencies drag their feet.
- State Pols Call on DOTs to Counter E-Bike ‘Demonization’, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2023-03-10
SUV Rear-Ends Another on Astoria Boulevard▸Two SUVs collided on Astoria Boulevard. One driver struck from behind. Neck injury and whiplash followed. Police cited traffic control disregard and tailgating. Metal twisted. Danger clear.
According to the police report, two SUVs crashed on Astoria Boulevard. The rear SUV, driven by a 46-year-old woman, hit the back of another SUV that was slowing or stopping. She suffered neck pain and whiplash but remained conscious and was not ejected. Police listed "Traffic Control Disregarded" and "Following Too Closely" as contributing factors. The rear SUV's right front bumper and the front SUV's left rear bumper were damaged. No other injuries or contributing factors were reported.
2SUV Strikes Van on 88 Street Queens▸A 68-year-old male driver and a 49-year-old female passenger were injured in a Queens crash. The SUV hit the van’s right front bumper. Traffic control devices were not working properly. Both occupants suffered internal injuries and remained conscious.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on 88 Street in Queens when a 2022 SUV traveling east struck a 2014 van traveling south. The van was hit on its right front bumper, causing injuries to its two occupants: a 68-year-old male driver with chest injuries and a 49-year-old female front passenger with head injuries. Both were conscious but suffered internal injuries, with the passenger trapped in the vehicle. The report lists "Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working" as contributing factors. No driver errors were specified. The van was damaged on its right front quarter panel, and the SUV sustained damage to its left side doors. Neither occupant was ejected.
Moped Hits Pedestrian Working in Queens▸A moped struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian working in the roadway at 93-21 37 Avenue, Queens. The pedestrian suffered knee and lower leg bruises. Police cited aggressive driving and unsafe speed as contributing factors. The moped showed no damage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling west on 93-21 37 Avenue in Queens struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian who was working in the roadway at an intersection. The pedestrian sustained contusions and bruises to her knee and lower leg and remained conscious after the collision. The report lists aggressive driving and unsafe speed as the primary contributing factors to the crash. The moped was going straight ahead and impacted the pedestrian with its center front end but showed no vehicle damage. No other factors such as helmet use or pedestrian error were noted in the report.
González-Rojas Opposes State Underfunding of MTA Safety‑Harming Budget▸Governor Hochul’s budget dodges state duty. City pays more, gets less. Riders face fare hikes, no better service. State hoards surplus, starves transit. Lawmakers protest. Suburbs dodge taxes. The city shoulders the load. Riders pay the price. Streets stay dangerous.
Governor Hochul’s 2023 state budget proposal, analyzed March 3, 2023, keeps New York State’s long-running refusal to match MTA funding under law 18-b. The budget, now under legislative review, forces New York City to cover a $500 million gap, while the state sits on an $8.7 billion surplus. The matter: 'Hochul's budget not only asks city residents to cover the largest chunk of the MTA's budget gap, but does so in part by continuing long-running practices that essentially under-fund the MTA by millions of dollars each year.' Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and State Sen. Andrew Gounardes both object, demanding the state honor its legal obligations. Riders Alliance and Reinvent Albany condemn the austerity. With fare hikes looming and no service improvements, city transit riders—often pedestrians and cyclists—bear the brunt. The budget leaves vulnerable road users exposed, as transit stagnates and car dominance persists.
-
Analysis: Hochul Turns Her Back on Transit Riders With Her MTA Budget,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-03
Two SUVs collided on Astoria Boulevard. One driver struck from behind. Neck injury and whiplash followed. Police cited traffic control disregard and tailgating. Metal twisted. Danger clear.
According to the police report, two SUVs crashed on Astoria Boulevard. The rear SUV, driven by a 46-year-old woman, hit the back of another SUV that was slowing or stopping. She suffered neck pain and whiplash but remained conscious and was not ejected. Police listed "Traffic Control Disregarded" and "Following Too Closely" as contributing factors. The rear SUV's right front bumper and the front SUV's left rear bumper were damaged. No other injuries or contributing factors were reported.
2SUV Strikes Van on 88 Street Queens▸A 68-year-old male driver and a 49-year-old female passenger were injured in a Queens crash. The SUV hit the van’s right front bumper. Traffic control devices were not working properly. Both occupants suffered internal injuries and remained conscious.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on 88 Street in Queens when a 2022 SUV traveling east struck a 2014 van traveling south. The van was hit on its right front bumper, causing injuries to its two occupants: a 68-year-old male driver with chest injuries and a 49-year-old female front passenger with head injuries. Both were conscious but suffered internal injuries, with the passenger trapped in the vehicle. The report lists "Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working" as contributing factors. No driver errors were specified. The van was damaged on its right front quarter panel, and the SUV sustained damage to its left side doors. Neither occupant was ejected.
Moped Hits Pedestrian Working in Queens▸A moped struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian working in the roadway at 93-21 37 Avenue, Queens. The pedestrian suffered knee and lower leg bruises. Police cited aggressive driving and unsafe speed as contributing factors. The moped showed no damage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling west on 93-21 37 Avenue in Queens struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian who was working in the roadway at an intersection. The pedestrian sustained contusions and bruises to her knee and lower leg and remained conscious after the collision. The report lists aggressive driving and unsafe speed as the primary contributing factors to the crash. The moped was going straight ahead and impacted the pedestrian with its center front end but showed no vehicle damage. No other factors such as helmet use or pedestrian error were noted in the report.
González-Rojas Opposes State Underfunding of MTA Safety‑Harming Budget▸Governor Hochul’s budget dodges state duty. City pays more, gets less. Riders face fare hikes, no better service. State hoards surplus, starves transit. Lawmakers protest. Suburbs dodge taxes. The city shoulders the load. Riders pay the price. Streets stay dangerous.
Governor Hochul’s 2023 state budget proposal, analyzed March 3, 2023, keeps New York State’s long-running refusal to match MTA funding under law 18-b. The budget, now under legislative review, forces New York City to cover a $500 million gap, while the state sits on an $8.7 billion surplus. The matter: 'Hochul's budget not only asks city residents to cover the largest chunk of the MTA's budget gap, but does so in part by continuing long-running practices that essentially under-fund the MTA by millions of dollars each year.' Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and State Sen. Andrew Gounardes both object, demanding the state honor its legal obligations. Riders Alliance and Reinvent Albany condemn the austerity. With fare hikes looming and no service improvements, city transit riders—often pedestrians and cyclists—bear the brunt. The budget leaves vulnerable road users exposed, as transit stagnates and car dominance persists.
-
Analysis: Hochul Turns Her Back on Transit Riders With Her MTA Budget,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-03
A 68-year-old male driver and a 49-year-old female passenger were injured in a Queens crash. The SUV hit the van’s right front bumper. Traffic control devices were not working properly. Both occupants suffered internal injuries and remained conscious.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on 88 Street in Queens when a 2022 SUV traveling east struck a 2014 van traveling south. The van was hit on its right front bumper, causing injuries to its two occupants: a 68-year-old male driver with chest injuries and a 49-year-old female front passenger with head injuries. Both were conscious but suffered internal injuries, with the passenger trapped in the vehicle. The report lists "Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working" as contributing factors. No driver errors were specified. The van was damaged on its right front quarter panel, and the SUV sustained damage to its left side doors. Neither occupant was ejected.
Moped Hits Pedestrian Working in Queens▸A moped struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian working in the roadway at 93-21 37 Avenue, Queens. The pedestrian suffered knee and lower leg bruises. Police cited aggressive driving and unsafe speed as contributing factors. The moped showed no damage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling west on 93-21 37 Avenue in Queens struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian who was working in the roadway at an intersection. The pedestrian sustained contusions and bruises to her knee and lower leg and remained conscious after the collision. The report lists aggressive driving and unsafe speed as the primary contributing factors to the crash. The moped was going straight ahead and impacted the pedestrian with its center front end but showed no vehicle damage. No other factors such as helmet use or pedestrian error were noted in the report.
González-Rojas Opposes State Underfunding of MTA Safety‑Harming Budget▸Governor Hochul’s budget dodges state duty. City pays more, gets less. Riders face fare hikes, no better service. State hoards surplus, starves transit. Lawmakers protest. Suburbs dodge taxes. The city shoulders the load. Riders pay the price. Streets stay dangerous.
Governor Hochul’s 2023 state budget proposal, analyzed March 3, 2023, keeps New York State’s long-running refusal to match MTA funding under law 18-b. The budget, now under legislative review, forces New York City to cover a $500 million gap, while the state sits on an $8.7 billion surplus. The matter: 'Hochul's budget not only asks city residents to cover the largest chunk of the MTA's budget gap, but does so in part by continuing long-running practices that essentially under-fund the MTA by millions of dollars each year.' Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and State Sen. Andrew Gounardes both object, demanding the state honor its legal obligations. Riders Alliance and Reinvent Albany condemn the austerity. With fare hikes looming and no service improvements, city transit riders—often pedestrians and cyclists—bear the brunt. The budget leaves vulnerable road users exposed, as transit stagnates and car dominance persists.
-
Analysis: Hochul Turns Her Back on Transit Riders With Her MTA Budget,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-03
A moped struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian working in the roadway at 93-21 37 Avenue, Queens. The pedestrian suffered knee and lower leg bruises. Police cited aggressive driving and unsafe speed as contributing factors. The moped showed no damage.
According to the police report, a moped traveling west on 93-21 37 Avenue in Queens struck a 26-year-old female pedestrian who was working in the roadway at an intersection. The pedestrian sustained contusions and bruises to her knee and lower leg and remained conscious after the collision. The report lists aggressive driving and unsafe speed as the primary contributing factors to the crash. The moped was going straight ahead and impacted the pedestrian with its center front end but showed no vehicle damage. No other factors such as helmet use or pedestrian error were noted in the report.
González-Rojas Opposes State Underfunding of MTA Safety‑Harming Budget▸Governor Hochul’s budget dodges state duty. City pays more, gets less. Riders face fare hikes, no better service. State hoards surplus, starves transit. Lawmakers protest. Suburbs dodge taxes. The city shoulders the load. Riders pay the price. Streets stay dangerous.
Governor Hochul’s 2023 state budget proposal, analyzed March 3, 2023, keeps New York State’s long-running refusal to match MTA funding under law 18-b. The budget, now under legislative review, forces New York City to cover a $500 million gap, while the state sits on an $8.7 billion surplus. The matter: 'Hochul's budget not only asks city residents to cover the largest chunk of the MTA's budget gap, but does so in part by continuing long-running practices that essentially under-fund the MTA by millions of dollars each year.' Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and State Sen. Andrew Gounardes both object, demanding the state honor its legal obligations. Riders Alliance and Reinvent Albany condemn the austerity. With fare hikes looming and no service improvements, city transit riders—often pedestrians and cyclists—bear the brunt. The budget leaves vulnerable road users exposed, as transit stagnates and car dominance persists.
-
Analysis: Hochul Turns Her Back on Transit Riders With Her MTA Budget,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-03
Governor Hochul’s budget dodges state duty. City pays more, gets less. Riders face fare hikes, no better service. State hoards surplus, starves transit. Lawmakers protest. Suburbs dodge taxes. The city shoulders the load. Riders pay the price. Streets stay dangerous.
Governor Hochul’s 2023 state budget proposal, analyzed March 3, 2023, keeps New York State’s long-running refusal to match MTA funding under law 18-b. The budget, now under legislative review, forces New York City to cover a $500 million gap, while the state sits on an $8.7 billion surplus. The matter: 'Hochul's budget not only asks city residents to cover the largest chunk of the MTA's budget gap, but does so in part by continuing long-running practices that essentially under-fund the MTA by millions of dollars each year.' Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and State Sen. Andrew Gounardes both object, demanding the state honor its legal obligations. Riders Alliance and Reinvent Albany condemn the austerity. With fare hikes looming and no service improvements, city transit riders—often pedestrians and cyclists—bear the brunt. The budget leaves vulnerable road users exposed, as transit stagnates and car dominance persists.
- Analysis: Hochul Turns Her Back on Transit Riders With Her MTA Budget, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2023-03-03