Bay Ridge Bleeds—City Shrugs. Demand Action Before Another Family Mourns.

Senator Gounardes fights to renew and expand speed camera enforcement as DOT fumbles Albany talks. Eleven killed in a violent week. City’s push for home rule stalls. Advocates demand action. Cameras in bike lanes and tougher penalties on the table.

Senate Bill sponsored by Andrew Gounardes (D-Brooklyn) seeks to renew and expand New York City’s speed and red light camera program. The bill, discussed in May 2022, aims to allow 24/7 automated enforcement and add penalties for repeat offenders, including registration suspensions. The matter summary: 'DOT officials said they’re negotiating amendments to Gounardes’ bill that would further crack down on reckless drivers, including a provision to let the city install cameras to ticket cars in bike lanes.' Gounardes stressed urgency: 'We cannot leave Albany without reauthorizing the speed cameras.' DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez’s late push for home rule caused confusion, risking the program’s renewal. The bill is under negotiation as the legislative session nears its end. Eleven people died on city streets that week, underscoring the stakes for vulnerable road users.

• NYC’s push for more traffic camera enforcement bungled by DOT commissioner in talks with Albany legislators: sources, nydailynews.com, Published 2022-05-12

Albany killed New York City’s push for control over speed cameras. Mayor Adams and DOT backed home rule, but lawmakers stalled. Senator Gounardes now fights to renew and expand camera programs before they shut off. Vulnerable road users remain exposed. Local power denied.

State Senator Andrew Gounardes’s bill S5602 sought to grant New York City control over its speed and red-light camera programs. The effort failed this session. The matter, described as 'home rule for the city on speed cameras,' stalled after City Hall did not send a formal request. Gounardes, shifting focus, now pushes to renew and expand the city’s automated enforcement before cameras go dark in July. Assembly Member William Magnarelli, chair of the Transportation Committee, blamed City Hall for inaction. Mayor Eric Adams and DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez voiced support for home rule, but Albany holds the power. Advocates and victims’ families decry the repeated need to beg for basic safety tools. The Crash Victim Rights and Safety Act, including Sammy’s Law for lower speed limits, remains in limbo. Without home rule, New York City’s most vulnerable—pedestrians, cyclists, children—face continued risk from political delays.

• Let’s Face It, ‘Home Rule’ on Speed Cameras is Dead — Blame Focuses on City Hall, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-05-11

A moped collided with an SUV at 92 Street and Fort Hamilton Parkway. The moped driver, a 47-year-old man, suffered knee and lower leg abrasions. Police cited failure to yield right-of-way as the cause. The SUV driver was licensed and driving west.

According to the police report, a 47-year-old male moped driver was injured in a collision with a 2007 Toyota SUV on 92 Street near Fort Hamilton Parkway in Brooklyn. The moped struck the left front quarter panel of the SUV. The moped driver sustained abrasions to his knee and lower leg but was conscious and not ejected. The report lists failure to yield right-of-way as the contributing factor. The SUV driver, a licensed female, was traveling west going straight ahead. The moped driver was unlicensed. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4523230 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-11

Mayor Adams vowed to get reckless drivers off city streets. He promised $904 million for safety. But he gave no details. No plan for enforcement. No timeline. Advocates want action, not talk. Vulnerable New Yorkers still wait for real change.

On April 27, 2022, Mayor Adams made a public statement on traffic enforcement and street safety policy. He announced a $904 million budget for safety improvements and said, 'We need to find them proactively, and get them off the streets.' Adams called for meetings with precincts and targeting dangerous intersections. But he gave no specifics on enforcement, legislative changes, or expanding the Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program. Advocates like Eric McClure (StreetsPAC) and Sara Lind (Open Plans) welcomed the words but demanded concrete action, especially from the NYPD. The city’s current laws limit its power to remove dangerous drivers. Pending state bills could help, but for now, the mayor’s promise remains just that—words, not protection for those most at risk.

• Mayor Says He’ll Act on Reckless Drivers, But Leaves Out the ‘How’, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-04-27

New York ranked 13th in bike safety but earned an F for traffic laws. Lawmakers and advocates demand stronger protections. The state lacks a safe passing law and local speed control. Riders face risk. Change is urgent. Lives hang in the balance.

"Bicyclists in New York deserve better than an F-rating for their safety on our streets, said State Sen. Andrew Gounardes (D-Bay Ridge)." -- Andrew Gounardes

On April 21, 2022, the League of American Bicyclists released a report ranking New York State 13th in bike friendliness, but giving it an F+ for traffic laws and practices. The report criticized the absence of a defined safe passing distance for motorists overtaking cyclists, the lack of local control over speed limits, and poor public reporting on police stops. State Sen. Andrew Gounardes called the grade unacceptable, urging passage of his road-sharing training bill and support for Sen. Brad Hoylman’s bill to lower speed limits. Gounardes also pushed to keep speed cameras active. Advocates like Jon Orcutt acknowledged progress, such as the MTA’s bike strategy and new greenway funding, but stressed the need for stronger laws. The League’s summary: 'New York received high marks for infrastructure and funding, and education and encouragement, but got an F+ in traffic laws and practices.' The state’s failure to protect cyclists and pedestrians leaves vulnerable road users exposed to daily danger.

• New York Gets an ‘F’ Grade in the New ‘Bike Friendly States’ Survey…, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-04-21

New York scored high for bike infrastructure but failed on traffic laws. No safe passing rule. Cities can’t set lower speed limits. Lawmakers call for action. Cyclists remain exposed. The state’s grade: F for safety. Progress lags. Danger persists.

"Bicyclists in New York deserve better than an F-rating for their safety on our streets, said State Sen. Andrew Gounardes (D-Bay Ridge)." -- Andrew Gounardes

On April 21, 2022, a national survey ranked New York State 13th for bike friendliness but gave it an F+ in 'Traffic Laws and Practices.' The review, covered by Streetsblog, highlighted the lack of a defined safe passing distance, restrictions on local speed limits, and missing public data on police stops. The League of American Bicyclists noted, 'New York is way behind other states on having a safe passage law, as 38 other states do.' State Sen. Andrew Gounardes called for urgent legislative fixes, including road-sharing training, lower speed limits, and keeping speed cameras on. Emily Gallagher, District 50, was mentioned in the advocacy push. The report underscores how state inaction leaves cyclists and pedestrians at risk, despite some progress in infrastructure and enforcement.

• Why New York State Gets an ‘F’ Grade in the New ‘Bike Friendly States’ Survey, streetsblog.org, Published 2022-04-21

Traffic deaths in New York City jumped 44% in early 2022. Fifty-nine people died in three months. Pedestrians and children bore the brunt. Advocates and Senator Gounardes call for urgent street redesigns and expanded camera enforcement. City Hall and Albany face mounting pressure.

On April 20, 2022, advocates and Senator Andrew Gounardes (District 26) sounded the alarm as traffic deaths in New York City surged. The report, titled 'Advocates demand action as NYC traffic deaths rise 44% in 2022,' revealed 59 deaths in the year's first quarter, the highest since Vision Zero began in 2014. Pedestrians and minors suffered most. Gounardes declared, 'It is unacceptable that there have been more traffic fatalities this year than since Vision Zero began.' Transportation Alternatives called for Mayor Adams to back a $3.1 billion DOT street redesign plan and for Albany to grant NYC home rule over traffic cameras. Advocates demand more bike lanes, safer intersections, and unrestricted camera enforcement. The push aims to end the deadly toll on city streets.

• Advocates demand action as NYC traffic deaths rise 44% in 2022, nydailynews.com, Published 2022-04-20

A 54-year-old woman riding east on Shore Road crashed her bike. She suffered a facial bruise. No other vehicles involved. Police list unspecified factors. The bike was undamaged. The rider wore a helmet and stayed conscious.

According to the police report, a 54-year-old female bicyclist was injured while riding east on Shore Road in Brooklyn. She suffered a facial contusion and remained conscious at the scene. The report lists two unspecified contributing factors but does not identify any driver errors. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved. The bike showed no damage, and the rider was not ejected. The bicyclist was wearing a helmet. The report does not provide further details on the cause or circumstances of the crash.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4517785 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-11

Albany moves to require six hours of pro instruction for new drivers. Gounardes and Carroll push the bill. They slam weak rules. Supporters say it will cut road violence. The DMV stays silent. The streets demand better.

Senate Bill 8667, introduced by Senator Andrew Gounardes and Assemblymember Bobby Carroll, would require all new drivers in New York State to complete six hours of professional driving instruction before taking the road test. The bill was proposed on March 29, 2022. It is currently under consideration in committee. The measure’s summary states it would mandate 'directed training with a professional.' Gounardes called out the current system, linking lack of experience to crashes and road violence. Carroll said professional training means better drivers. The bill has backing from the New York State Association of Professional Driving Schools and the city Department of Transportation. Both stress the need for real training to protect all road users. The DMV has not commented. The bill aims to close deadly gaps in driver preparation.

• Albany Bill Would Finally Mandate Instruction for Student Drivers (Well, a Little), streetsblog.org, Published 2022-03-29

Senate Bill 8667 would force new drivers to log six hours with a professional instructor. Gounardes and Carroll say the current system is lax. They want more training. Safety leaders back the move. DOT is reviewing. Streets stay deadly.

Senate Bill 8667, introduced by Sen. Andrew Gounardes and Assemblymember Bobby Carroll, would require all new drivers in New York State to complete six hours of professional driving instruction before taking the road test. The bill was announced on March 29, 2022. Gounardes slammed the current rules as too lenient, saying, "For some drivers, the first time they take the wheel [as a licensed driver] they are in sole control of their car." Carroll called the requirement "reasonable." Stephen Walling, president of the New York State Association of Professional Driving Schools, said the bill would "go a long way towards keeping all New Yorkers safer on our roads." The NYC Department of Transportation called driver education "crucial" for the safety of pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users, and is reviewing the proposal. The bill awaits committee action.

• Albany Bill Would Finally Mandate Instruction for Student Drivers (Well, a Little), Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-03-29

Mayor Adams stood at a deadly Brooklyn intersection. He blamed Albany for tying the city’s hands. He called out the NYPD for weak enforcement. Twenty-seven pedestrians dead this year. Cameras go dark at night. Speeders win. Vulnerable lives lost.

On March 25, 2022, Mayor Adams held a press conference on street safety and traffic enforcement policy. The event spotlighted the city’s struggle to control its own traffic laws. Adams slammed state rules that force red light and speed cameras off between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., calling it 'unbelievable.' He said, 'Who are we protecting? We’re protecting the speeders. How about protecting Isaiah?' State Senator Andrew Gounardes, district 26, echoed Adams: 'It makes no sense that the city cannot control its own destiny on these streets.' Adams admitted NYPD traffic enforcement lags, with summonses down by more than half since 2019. Twenty-seven pedestrians have died so far this year—three more than last year. The mayor pressed for 24/7 camera operation and renewed NYPD focus. The council and advocates demand Albany act before more lives are lost.

• Mayor Adams blames Albany for NYC street safety flaws, but says city must do a better job, nydailynews.com, Published 2022-03-25

Mayor Adams stood with a grieving family. He demanded Albany let New York City control speed cameras, lower speed limits, and expand red-light cameras. He slammed laws that shield reckless drivers. Advocates say enforcement is not enough. Streets must change to save lives.

On March 25, 2022, Mayor Eric Adams issued a statement urging Albany to grant New York City authority over its speed camera enforcement system, lower speed limits, and expand red-light camera programs. Adams criticized the law that forces cameras off at 10 p.m., asking, 'Who are we protecting? We're protecting the speeders?' He cited clear data showing cameras cut violations and crashes. State Senator Andrew Gounardes echoed Adams, questioning why lawmakers outside the city control local street safety. Adams admitted NYPD traffic enforcement has dropped and pledged to prioritize it. Advocates argue enforcement alone is not enough and call for street redesigns to protect pedestrians and cyclists. Traffic deaths remain high, especially when cameras are off. The push highlights a fight for local control and safer streets for all vulnerable New Yorkers.

• Adams Wants Albany Help in Stopping Reckless Drivers, But There is Much More He Can Do On His Own, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-03-25

Two sedans crashed on 7 Avenue. A 29-year-old driver suffered neck pain and shock. Police cite driver inattention and blocked view. Metal twisted. One driver injured. No pedestrians or cyclists involved.

According to the police report, two sedans traveling north on 7 Avenue collided. The 29-year-old male driver of a BMW suffered neck injuries and shock. Police list driver inattention, distraction, and view obstructed as contributing factors. The BMW was hit in the left rear bumper; the Volvo struck with its right front bumper. The injured driver wore a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. No pedestrians or cyclists were involved. The crash shows the danger when drivers lose focus and sightlines are blocked.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4511269 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-11

A 35-year-old woman was struck at an intersection on 4 Avenue in Brooklyn. The pickup truck failed to yield while making a left turn. The pedestrian suffered bruises and an elbow injury. The driver hit her with the truck’s front center.

According to the police report, a pickup truck traveling south on 4 Avenue made an improper left turn and failed to yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian crossing with the signal. The pedestrian, a 35-year-old woman, was injured at the intersection, suffering contusions and an injury to her elbow, lower arm, and hand. The point of impact was the truck’s center front end, and the vehicle sustained damage to the right front bumper. The report lists the driver’s errors as failure to yield right-of-way and turning improperly. The pedestrian was conscious and injured but not ejected. No safety equipment or contributing factors related to the pedestrian were noted.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4511088 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-11

Senate passed S 5130. The bill pushes complete street design. It aims for safe access for all. Pedestrians and cyclists get a shot at safer roads. The vote was split, but the bill moved forward.

Senate bill S 5130, titled 'Enables safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles,' passed committee votes on March 2 and May 16, 2022. Senator Kennedy sponsored the bill. Support came from members like Jeremy Cooney, Anna Kaplan, and John Liu. Dissent came from Patrick Gallivan and Susan Serino. The bill pushes cities to design roads for everyone—pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. It marks a shift from car-first planning. The measure aims to cut risk for people outside cars. Full vote details and text are at the New York Senate website.

• File S 5130, Open States, Published 2022-03-02

A sedan traveling south struck a parked vehicle on 3 Avenue in Brooklyn. The impact hit the right side doors of the sedan and the rear bumper of the parked car. An 18-year-old female passenger suffered neck injuries and whiplash.

According to the police report, a 2015 Dodge sedan traveling south on 3 Avenue in Brooklyn collided with a parked vehicle. The point of impact was the sedan's right front bumper and the parked car's left rear bumper. The sedan's driver was engaged in improper passing or lane usage, contributing to the crash. An 18-year-old female passenger seated in the middle front seat was injured, sustaining neck injuries and whiplash. She was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. No ejection occurred. The report lists the driver error as 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper.' No other contributing factors were specified.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4503643 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-11

Council Member Brannan pushes a bill to ban higher parking rates for SUVs. Critics warn it props up dangerous vehicles. The bill covers all light-duty cars under 8,500 pounds. Debate rages as advocates call for clarity and safety.

On February 14, 2022, Council Member Justin Brannan introduced a bill to the New York City Council. The bill would require commercial parking garages to charge the same rate for all light-duty vehicles under 8,500 pounds, including sedans, vans, SUVs, and pickups. Brannan claims the measure fights arbitrary price-gouging, saying, 'The idea is to make it fair for people who choose to drive.' Critics, like StreetsPAC's Eric McClure, argue the bill subsidizes SUV use and endangers city streets, stating, 'We shouldn’t be bending over backwards to further subsidize someone’s choice to drive an SUV or pickup truck in New York City.' Brannan admits the bill needs revision. The bill’s status and committee assignment remain unclear. No formal safety analysis was provided.

• Brooklyn Pol’s Bill Would Prohibit Higher Parking Costs for SUVs, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-02-14

A sedan turning left hit an e-bike rider making a right turn in Brooklyn. The e-bike rider, a 36-year-old man, suffered knee and lower leg injuries. The sedan’s front center collided with the bike’s left side doors. Driver distraction cited.

According to the police report, a sedan traveling north on 84 Street was making a left turn when it collided with an e-bike rider traveling south and making a right turn. The e-bike driver, a 36-year-old man, was injured with contusions and trauma to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The point of impact was the sedan’s center front end striking the left side doors of the e-bike. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. The e-bike rider was wearing a helmet. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4500832 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-11

A sedan made an improper U-turn on Bay Ridge Parkway in Brooklyn. It struck a 17-year-old moped driver going straight. The moped rider suffered a head abrasion but was conscious and not ejected. The sedan’s right front quarter panel took damage.

According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Bay Ridge Parkway made an improper U-turn and collided with a moped also traveling west. The moped driver, a 17-year-old male, was injured with a head abrasion and remained conscious. The report lists 'Turning Improperly' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors. The sedan driver was licensed; the moped driver was unlicensed. The point of impact was the right front quarter panel of the sedan and the center front end of the moped. The moped rider was not ejected and wore no safety equipment. The crash highlights driver errors in turning and lane usage that led to the collision.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4498058 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-11

Albany leaders debate MTA’s future. Advocates want $500 million yearly to keep subways and buses moving. Riders face fare hikes and service cuts if lawmakers stall. The fight is urgent. Riders wait. Cars kill. Transit saves lives.

This funding debate centers on Gov. Hochul’s Fiscal Year 2023 budget, which allocates $6.6 billion in operating aid for the MTA but lacks new dedicated revenue. The proposal, discussed on January 28, 2022, has not advanced to a formal committee or bill stage. The matter: 'Who Wants To Give The MTA Half A Billion Dollars?' State Sen. Andrew Gounardes backs progressive funding, saying, 'Funding high-ridership bus routes and the subway such that transit options would be arriving every six minutes is something we need to be pushing for.' Comptroller Brad Lander and advocates like the Riders Alliance demand $500 million per year to avoid fare hikes and boost service. The push is clear: more frequent, affordable transit keeps vulnerable New Yorkers out of harm’s way. No formal safety analysis was provided, but the stakes for pedestrians and riders are life and death.

• Who Wants To Give The MTA Half A Billion Dollars?, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-01-28