Who’s Injuring and Killing Pedestrians in Sunnyside?
Sunnyside Bleeds While City Sleeps: Drop the Speed, Save a Life
Sunnyside: Jan 1, 2022 - Jun 4, 2025
The Numbers Behind the Names
Five dead. Seventeen seriously hurt. In Sunnyside, from 2022 to June 2025, the numbers keep coming. They do not slow. They do not care. In the last twelve months alone, three people died. Four were left with injuries that will not heal. One was a child. One was old enough to remember the city before cars ruled it. See the data.
Over 1,000 people injured. The wounds are not just numbers. They are broken legs, crushed skulls, lives split open on the street. The youngest was under 18. The oldest was over 75. No one is spared.
The Machines That Kill
Cars and trucks did most of the damage. They killed. They maimed. They left families to pick up what was left. Motorcycles and mopeds tore through flesh and bone. Bikes, too, left their mark, but the weight of steel and speed falls hardest from the biggest machines.
What Has Been Done—And What Hasn’t
The city talks of Vision Zero. They say every life matters. They point to new laws—like Sammy’s Law, which lets the city lower speed limits. But in Sunnyside, the speed stays the same. The city has the power to drop the limit to 20 mph. They have not used it. demand action.
Speed cameras work. They cut speeding by more than half where installed. But the law that keeps them running is always at risk. Albany drags its feet. The city waits. People die.
The Cost of Delay
Every day without action is another day someone does not come home. The city has the tools. The leaders have the power. What they lack is urgency.
Call your council member. Call the mayor. Demand a 20 mph speed limit. Demand more cameras. Demand streets that do not bleed. Take action now.
Citations
Other Representatives
District 37
45-10 Skillman Ave. 1st Floor, Sunnyside, NY 11104
Room 427, Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY 12248
District 26
37-04 Queens Boulevard, Suite 205, Long Island City, NY 11101
718-383-9566
250 Broadway, Suite 1749, New York, NY 10007
212-788-6975
District 12
22-07 45th St. Suite 1008, Astoria, NY 11105
Albany, NY 12247
▸ Other Geographies
Sunnyside Sunnyside sits in Queens, Precinct 108, District 26, AD 37, SD 12, Queens CB2.
▸ See also
Traffic Safety Timeline for Sunnyside
11-Year-Old Pedestrian Hit on Queens Boulevard▸An 11-year-old boy crossing Queens Boulevard with the signal was struck by a left-turning SUV. The boy suffered bruises and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The driver was inattentive and disregarded traffic control, causing the collision.
According to the police report, an 11-year-old pedestrian was injured while crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection in Queens. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal when a 2021 Honda SUV making a left turn struck him at the center front end. The boy sustained contusions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot but remained conscious. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors, along with disregarding traffic control. The driver’s failure to yield and distraction led to the collision. No other contributing factors related to the pedestrian were noted.
SUV Rear-Ends Stopped Sedan in Queens▸A 21-year-old woman driver suffered head injuries and whiplash after her sedan was rear-ended by an SUV on Laurel Hill Boulevard in Queens. Both vehicles showed no damage. The SUV driver was male and licensed. The sedan was stopped in traffic.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on Laurel Hill Boulevard in Queens involving a 2016 SUV and a 2016 sedan. The sedan, driven by a 21-year-old woman, was stopped in traffic when the SUV, traveling east, struck the sedan’s rear center. The woman sustained head injuries and whiplash but was conscious and wearing a lap belt and harness. The SUV driver was a licensed male driver. The report lists no specific contributing factors or driver errors. Both vehicles showed no damage despite the impact. The sedan driver was not ejected and was injured in the crash.
S 775Gianaris 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 2023-05-16
Box Truck and SUV Crush Motorcyclist on Expressway▸Steel and rubber slammed together on the Long Island Expressway. A box truck, SUV, and motorcycle collided. The biker, 51, was crushed. His leg shattered. Blood pooled. Engines cooled. The road did not stop.
A violent crash unfolded on the Long Island Expressway near Vandam Street in Queens. According to the police report, a box truck, an SUV, and a motorcycle collided. The 51-year-old motorcyclist was crushed, suffering severe injuries to his leg. The report states: 'The biker, 51, was crushed beneath steel and rubber. His leg shattered. He stayed awake. Engines cooled. Blood pooled. The road kept moving.' Police listed 'Aggressive Driving/Road Rage' as a contributing factor. No other injuries were reported for the truck or SUV occupants. The motorcyclist wore a helmet, as noted in the data, but the crash left him badly hurt. The system failed to protect the most vulnerable.
Taxi Turns Left, Hits SUV Passenger▸A taxi making a left turn collided with an SUV going straight on Honeywell Street in Queens. The SUV’s front passenger, a 40-year-old woman, suffered bruises and arm injuries. Police cited failure to yield and unsafe speed as causes.
According to the police report, a taxi traveling north on Honeywell Street attempted a left turn and struck a southbound SUV. The SUV carried four occupants. The front passenger, a 40-year-old woman, was injured with contusions and arm trauma but was conscious and not ejected. The report lists driver errors including failure to yield right-of-way and unsafe speed. The taxi driver’s left turn caused the collision with the SUV’s left front bumper. The SUV passenger’s injury was a contusion to the elbow, lower arm, and hand. Police also noted driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. No helmet or signaling issues were reported.
Unlicensed Moped Driver Injured in Queens Crash▸A moped and sedan collided on Vandam Street in Queens. The moped driver, unlicensed and riding at unsafe speed, was injured with abrasions and leg wounds. The sedan showed no damage despite the impact. Both vehicles were involved in a police pursuit.
According to the police report, a sedan and a moped collided on Vandam Street in Queens during a police pursuit. The moped driver, a 28-year-old male, was injured with abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists 'Unsafe Speed' as a contributing factor. The moped driver was unlicensed. The sedan, driven by a licensed male driver, sustained no damage. The point of impact was the left front quarter panel of the sedan and the right side doors of the moped. The moped driver was wearing a helmet. No other contributing factors were specified.
Sedan Hits 16-Year-Old Bicyclist in Queens▸A sedan and a bike collided on 33 Street near 47 Avenue in Queens. The 16-year-old bicyclist suffered abdominal and pelvic injuries with minor bleeding. The driver’s inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety equipment.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling south and a bike traveling east collided head-on on 33 Street near 47 Avenue in Queens. The bicyclist, a 16-year-old male, sustained injuries to his abdomen and pelvis and was treated for minor bleeding. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors to the crash. The sedan’s front end was damaged, while the bike showed no damage. The bicyclist was not ejected and was in shock at the scene. No safety equipment was reported on the cyclist. The driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of impact.
3SUVs Collide on Vandam Street, Three Passengers Hurt▸Two SUVs crashed head-on on Vandam Street in Queens. Three passengers, ages 2, 9, and 30, suffered whiplash. Police cite driver inattention and distraction. Impact struck left front bumpers. No ejections.
According to the police report, two sport utility vehicles collided head-on on Vandam Street in Queens. Three passengers were injured: a 2-year-old girl in a child restraint, a 9-year-old boy with a lap belt and harness, and a 30-year-old woman with a lap belt. All suffered whiplash and were conscious at the scene. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors, along with reaction to an uninvolved vehicle. The point of impact was the left front bumper on both vehicles. No passengers were ejected. Vehicle damage included the left front and left rear quarter panels.
Michael Gianaris Supports Traffic Signal Installation Despite Limited Safety Impact▸A driver killed a 7-year-old girl at 45th Street and Newtown Road. The city will install a traffic signal. Local leaders and family demanded action. DOT promises more safety. Residents call for broader change. One light will not fix the corridor.
On April 1, 2023, NYC DOT announced a new traffic signal for 45th Street and Newtown Road in Queens. This follows the February death of Dolma Naadhun, age 7, struck by a driver with a learner’s permit. The matter, titled 'NYC to install a traffic signal at the site of Queens crash that killed 7-year-old,' drew support from State Sen. Michael Gianaris, who said, 'I am glad the city is installing a traffic signal at the site of Naadhun's tragic death, in accordance with her family’s wishes.' Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez stated, 'No loss of life on our streets is acceptable.' The DOT has already added curb extensions and new crosswalks. Community members, including Alex Duncan, argue that one signal is not enough and demand systemic safety changes along the corridor. The signal is set for installation in May.
-
NYC to install a traffic signal at the site of Queens crash that killed 7-year-old,
gothamist.com,
Published 2023-04-01
Michael Gianaris Backs Safety Boosting Traffic Light Installation▸A new traffic light will rise at a deadly Queens corner. A girl died here. Her brother begged for change. The city listened. Officials promise more: stop signs, curb extensions, clearer crosswalks. The driver who killed her ran a stop sign. He was unlicensed.
On March 30, 2023, the NYC Department of Transportation announced new safety measures at a Queens intersection where 7-year-old Dolma Naadhum was killed by an SUV. The agency will install a traffic light by May, following a petition from Dolma’s brother and pressure from local leaders. State Senator Michael Gianaris, representing District 12, pledged to honor the family's request, stating, 'We fix Newtown Road where this happened.' The DOT will also add all-way stop signs at a nearby crossing and has already improved crosswalks, extended curbs, and restricted parking for better visibility. The driver in the fatal crash ran a stop sign and lacked a proper license. The city’s action comes after years of complaints about dangerous driving at this intersection.
-
NYC to install traffic light at corner where girl died after brother’s plea,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-30
Teen E-Biker Thrown After Striking Pickup▸A 15-year-old on an e-bike hit the back of a Ford pickup on Queens Boulevard. He flew off, landed hard. Blood pooled from his head. The truck kept moving. The boy was left injured, conscious, on the street.
A 15-year-old boy riding an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup truck on Queens Boulevard near 42nd Street in Queens. According to the police report, 'A 15-year-old boy on an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup. He flew, hit the pavement hard. Blood from his head pooled on the asphalt. The truck kept going, straight into the sun.' The boy was ejected from his bike, suffering severe head lacerations but remained conscious. The police report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as a contributing factor. The pickup truck did not stop after the crash. No helmet use or signaling is mentioned as a factor in the report.
S 4647Gianaris 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 775Gianaris 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
Gianaris Backs Misguided Residential Parking Permit Proposal▸Albany’s push for residential parking permits risks locking in car dominance. Critics say low fees fuel car ownership, crowding out transit, bikes, and green space. Experts warn it’s a subsidy for drivers, not a fix for congestion or emissions.
On March 16, 2023, a Senate proposal surfaced to create a Residential Parking Permit system in New York City. The plan, now under City Council review, would charge drivers up to $30 per month for curbside parking, with revenue aimed at funding the MTA. The proposal leaves key details—like reserving 20% of spaces for non-residents—to the Council. The bill’s summary claims it will reduce emissions and support transit. Senator Michael Gianaris supports the measure, but critics are blunt. Bike New York’s Jon Orcutt calls it a 'big nothingburger.' Donald Shoup says the $30 fee is a subsidy for cars. Elizabeth Adams of Transportation Alternatives argues, 'public space should be used for transit, bike lanes, and green space, not car storage.' Studies show similar programs in other cities have failed to cut congestion or emissions, and may even increase car ownership. The Department of Transportation has testified against the plan, warning it entrenches private car storage at the expense of vulnerable road users.
-
Albany’s Residential Parking Program Won’t Be Good for New York City: Analysis,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-16
Gianaris Supports Traffic Light After Queens Child Death▸A girl died at a Queens intersection. Her brother started a petition. Over 26,000 signed. Neighbors and State Sen. Michael Gianaris demand a traffic light. DOT hesitates. Drivers keep ignoring stop signs. The crosswalk remains deadly. The city stalls. Families mourn.
On March 5, 2023, State Senator Michael Gianaris responded to the death of Dolma Naadhum, a 7-year-old killed at a Newtown Road intersection in Astoria, Queens. The incident sparked a petition—over 26,000 signatures—calling for traffic lights to replace stop signs at three crossings. Gianaris pledged to 'make sure we fix Newtown Road where this happened, and to honor her father's request that there be traffic lights there.' The Department of Transportation upgraded crosswalk markings but has not committed to a traffic light, citing a low crash history. Residents and the victim’s family say the intersection remains dangerous, with drivers ignoring stop signs. Gianaris’s support highlights official recognition of the need for stronger protections for pedestrians, especially children, at this site.
-
11-year-old brother of NYC girl killed at intersection calls for new traffic light,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-05
S 4647Gianaris 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 2023-02-28
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
Pedestrian Struck Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 25-year-old woman crossing Queens Boulevard with the signal was hit by a speeding vehicle. The driver was inattentive and distracted. The pedestrian suffered back injuries and shock. The crash happened late at night in Queens.
According to the police report, a 25-year-old female pedestrian was crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection with the signal when she was struck by a vehicle traveling north. The pedestrian sustained back injuries and was in shock, complaining of pain and nausea. The report lists the driver's unsafe speed and inattention or distraction as contributing factors. The vehicle impacted the pedestrian at the center front end. No other vehicle details or driver information were provided. The pedestrian was not blamed for the crash.
Gianaris Criticizes Lieber for Harmful MTA Fare Hikes▸MTA Chair Janno Lieber told lawmakers the agency needs $350 million yearly to avoid fare hikes. Legislators pushed back. They called for taxing the wealthy, not straphangers. The fight centers on who pays for transit. Riders wait. The stakes are high.
On February 6, 2023, during a legislative hearing on MTA funding and fare policy, MTA Chair Janno Lieber testified that the agency needs $350 million more each year to prevent subway and bus fare hikes. The hearing, part of the state budget process, saw Lieber defend Governor Hochul’s proposed 5.5-percent fare increase as a return to regular hikes paused during the pandemic. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and colleagues pushed the 'Fix the MTA' package to freeze fares, boost service, and make buses free. Mamdani argued, 'It is simply not acceptable to put the cost of a basic public good on the backs of working class New Yorkers.' Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris criticized Lieber for insisting on fare hikes while dismissing other budget solutions. Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas opposed making her constituents pay more. Lieber expressed concern about free buses, preferring targeted affordability programs. The hearing highlighted a sharp divide: lawmakers want to protect riders; the MTA wants stable funding. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
MTA Could Nix Fare Hikes with Just $350M More Per Year, Lieber Says,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-02-06
An 11-year-old boy crossing Queens Boulevard with the signal was struck by a left-turning SUV. The boy suffered bruises and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The driver was inattentive and disregarded traffic control, causing the collision.
According to the police report, an 11-year-old pedestrian was injured while crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection in Queens. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal when a 2021 Honda SUV making a left turn struck him at the center front end. The boy sustained contusions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot but remained conscious. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors, along with disregarding traffic control. The driver’s failure to yield and distraction led to the collision. No other contributing factors related to the pedestrian were noted.
SUV Rear-Ends Stopped Sedan in Queens▸A 21-year-old woman driver suffered head injuries and whiplash after her sedan was rear-ended by an SUV on Laurel Hill Boulevard in Queens. Both vehicles showed no damage. The SUV driver was male and licensed. The sedan was stopped in traffic.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on Laurel Hill Boulevard in Queens involving a 2016 SUV and a 2016 sedan. The sedan, driven by a 21-year-old woman, was stopped in traffic when the SUV, traveling east, struck the sedan’s rear center. The woman sustained head injuries and whiplash but was conscious and wearing a lap belt and harness. The SUV driver was a licensed male driver. The report lists no specific contributing factors or driver errors. Both vehicles showed no damage despite the impact. The sedan driver was not ejected and was injured in the crash.
S 775Gianaris 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 2023-05-16
Box Truck and SUV Crush Motorcyclist on Expressway▸Steel and rubber slammed together on the Long Island Expressway. A box truck, SUV, and motorcycle collided. The biker, 51, was crushed. His leg shattered. Blood pooled. Engines cooled. The road did not stop.
A violent crash unfolded on the Long Island Expressway near Vandam Street in Queens. According to the police report, a box truck, an SUV, and a motorcycle collided. The 51-year-old motorcyclist was crushed, suffering severe injuries to his leg. The report states: 'The biker, 51, was crushed beneath steel and rubber. His leg shattered. He stayed awake. Engines cooled. Blood pooled. The road kept moving.' Police listed 'Aggressive Driving/Road Rage' as a contributing factor. No other injuries were reported for the truck or SUV occupants. The motorcyclist wore a helmet, as noted in the data, but the crash left him badly hurt. The system failed to protect the most vulnerable.
Taxi Turns Left, Hits SUV Passenger▸A taxi making a left turn collided with an SUV going straight on Honeywell Street in Queens. The SUV’s front passenger, a 40-year-old woman, suffered bruises and arm injuries. Police cited failure to yield and unsafe speed as causes.
According to the police report, a taxi traveling north on Honeywell Street attempted a left turn and struck a southbound SUV. The SUV carried four occupants. The front passenger, a 40-year-old woman, was injured with contusions and arm trauma but was conscious and not ejected. The report lists driver errors including failure to yield right-of-way and unsafe speed. The taxi driver’s left turn caused the collision with the SUV’s left front bumper. The SUV passenger’s injury was a contusion to the elbow, lower arm, and hand. Police also noted driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. No helmet or signaling issues were reported.
Unlicensed Moped Driver Injured in Queens Crash▸A moped and sedan collided on Vandam Street in Queens. The moped driver, unlicensed and riding at unsafe speed, was injured with abrasions and leg wounds. The sedan showed no damage despite the impact. Both vehicles were involved in a police pursuit.
According to the police report, a sedan and a moped collided on Vandam Street in Queens during a police pursuit. The moped driver, a 28-year-old male, was injured with abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists 'Unsafe Speed' as a contributing factor. The moped driver was unlicensed. The sedan, driven by a licensed male driver, sustained no damage. The point of impact was the left front quarter panel of the sedan and the right side doors of the moped. The moped driver was wearing a helmet. No other contributing factors were specified.
Sedan Hits 16-Year-Old Bicyclist in Queens▸A sedan and a bike collided on 33 Street near 47 Avenue in Queens. The 16-year-old bicyclist suffered abdominal and pelvic injuries with minor bleeding. The driver’s inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety equipment.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling south and a bike traveling east collided head-on on 33 Street near 47 Avenue in Queens. The bicyclist, a 16-year-old male, sustained injuries to his abdomen and pelvis and was treated for minor bleeding. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors to the crash. The sedan’s front end was damaged, while the bike showed no damage. The bicyclist was not ejected and was in shock at the scene. No safety equipment was reported on the cyclist. The driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of impact.
3SUVs Collide on Vandam Street, Three Passengers Hurt▸Two SUVs crashed head-on on Vandam Street in Queens. Three passengers, ages 2, 9, and 30, suffered whiplash. Police cite driver inattention and distraction. Impact struck left front bumpers. No ejections.
According to the police report, two sport utility vehicles collided head-on on Vandam Street in Queens. Three passengers were injured: a 2-year-old girl in a child restraint, a 9-year-old boy with a lap belt and harness, and a 30-year-old woman with a lap belt. All suffered whiplash and were conscious at the scene. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors, along with reaction to an uninvolved vehicle. The point of impact was the left front bumper on both vehicles. No passengers were ejected. Vehicle damage included the left front and left rear quarter panels.
Michael Gianaris Supports Traffic Signal Installation Despite Limited Safety Impact▸A driver killed a 7-year-old girl at 45th Street and Newtown Road. The city will install a traffic signal. Local leaders and family demanded action. DOT promises more safety. Residents call for broader change. One light will not fix the corridor.
On April 1, 2023, NYC DOT announced a new traffic signal for 45th Street and Newtown Road in Queens. This follows the February death of Dolma Naadhun, age 7, struck by a driver with a learner’s permit. The matter, titled 'NYC to install a traffic signal at the site of Queens crash that killed 7-year-old,' drew support from State Sen. Michael Gianaris, who said, 'I am glad the city is installing a traffic signal at the site of Naadhun's tragic death, in accordance with her family’s wishes.' Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez stated, 'No loss of life on our streets is acceptable.' The DOT has already added curb extensions and new crosswalks. Community members, including Alex Duncan, argue that one signal is not enough and demand systemic safety changes along the corridor. The signal is set for installation in May.
-
NYC to install a traffic signal at the site of Queens crash that killed 7-year-old,
gothamist.com,
Published 2023-04-01
Michael Gianaris Backs Safety Boosting Traffic Light Installation▸A new traffic light will rise at a deadly Queens corner. A girl died here. Her brother begged for change. The city listened. Officials promise more: stop signs, curb extensions, clearer crosswalks. The driver who killed her ran a stop sign. He was unlicensed.
On March 30, 2023, the NYC Department of Transportation announced new safety measures at a Queens intersection where 7-year-old Dolma Naadhum was killed by an SUV. The agency will install a traffic light by May, following a petition from Dolma’s brother and pressure from local leaders. State Senator Michael Gianaris, representing District 12, pledged to honor the family's request, stating, 'We fix Newtown Road where this happened.' The DOT will also add all-way stop signs at a nearby crossing and has already improved crosswalks, extended curbs, and restricted parking for better visibility. The driver in the fatal crash ran a stop sign and lacked a proper license. The city’s action comes after years of complaints about dangerous driving at this intersection.
-
NYC to install traffic light at corner where girl died after brother’s plea,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-30
Teen E-Biker Thrown After Striking Pickup▸A 15-year-old on an e-bike hit the back of a Ford pickup on Queens Boulevard. He flew off, landed hard. Blood pooled from his head. The truck kept moving. The boy was left injured, conscious, on the street.
A 15-year-old boy riding an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup truck on Queens Boulevard near 42nd Street in Queens. According to the police report, 'A 15-year-old boy on an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup. He flew, hit the pavement hard. Blood from his head pooled on the asphalt. The truck kept going, straight into the sun.' The boy was ejected from his bike, suffering severe head lacerations but remained conscious. The police report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as a contributing factor. The pickup truck did not stop after the crash. No helmet use or signaling is mentioned as a factor in the report.
S 4647Gianaris 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 775Gianaris 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
Gianaris Backs Misguided Residential Parking Permit Proposal▸Albany’s push for residential parking permits risks locking in car dominance. Critics say low fees fuel car ownership, crowding out transit, bikes, and green space. Experts warn it’s a subsidy for drivers, not a fix for congestion or emissions.
On March 16, 2023, a Senate proposal surfaced to create a Residential Parking Permit system in New York City. The plan, now under City Council review, would charge drivers up to $30 per month for curbside parking, with revenue aimed at funding the MTA. The proposal leaves key details—like reserving 20% of spaces for non-residents—to the Council. The bill’s summary claims it will reduce emissions and support transit. Senator Michael Gianaris supports the measure, but critics are blunt. Bike New York’s Jon Orcutt calls it a 'big nothingburger.' Donald Shoup says the $30 fee is a subsidy for cars. Elizabeth Adams of Transportation Alternatives argues, 'public space should be used for transit, bike lanes, and green space, not car storage.' Studies show similar programs in other cities have failed to cut congestion or emissions, and may even increase car ownership. The Department of Transportation has testified against the plan, warning it entrenches private car storage at the expense of vulnerable road users.
-
Albany’s Residential Parking Program Won’t Be Good for New York City: Analysis,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-16
Gianaris Supports Traffic Light After Queens Child Death▸A girl died at a Queens intersection. Her brother started a petition. Over 26,000 signed. Neighbors and State Sen. Michael Gianaris demand a traffic light. DOT hesitates. Drivers keep ignoring stop signs. The crosswalk remains deadly. The city stalls. Families mourn.
On March 5, 2023, State Senator Michael Gianaris responded to the death of Dolma Naadhum, a 7-year-old killed at a Newtown Road intersection in Astoria, Queens. The incident sparked a petition—over 26,000 signatures—calling for traffic lights to replace stop signs at three crossings. Gianaris pledged to 'make sure we fix Newtown Road where this happened, and to honor her father's request that there be traffic lights there.' The Department of Transportation upgraded crosswalk markings but has not committed to a traffic light, citing a low crash history. Residents and the victim’s family say the intersection remains dangerous, with drivers ignoring stop signs. Gianaris’s support highlights official recognition of the need for stronger protections for pedestrians, especially children, at this site.
-
11-year-old brother of NYC girl killed at intersection calls for new traffic light,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-05
S 4647Gianaris 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 2023-02-28
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
Pedestrian Struck Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 25-year-old woman crossing Queens Boulevard with the signal was hit by a speeding vehicle. The driver was inattentive and distracted. The pedestrian suffered back injuries and shock. The crash happened late at night in Queens.
According to the police report, a 25-year-old female pedestrian was crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection with the signal when she was struck by a vehicle traveling north. The pedestrian sustained back injuries and was in shock, complaining of pain and nausea. The report lists the driver's unsafe speed and inattention or distraction as contributing factors. The vehicle impacted the pedestrian at the center front end. No other vehicle details or driver information were provided. The pedestrian was not blamed for the crash.
Gianaris Criticizes Lieber for Harmful MTA Fare Hikes▸MTA Chair Janno Lieber told lawmakers the agency needs $350 million yearly to avoid fare hikes. Legislators pushed back. They called for taxing the wealthy, not straphangers. The fight centers on who pays for transit. Riders wait. The stakes are high.
On February 6, 2023, during a legislative hearing on MTA funding and fare policy, MTA Chair Janno Lieber testified that the agency needs $350 million more each year to prevent subway and bus fare hikes. The hearing, part of the state budget process, saw Lieber defend Governor Hochul’s proposed 5.5-percent fare increase as a return to regular hikes paused during the pandemic. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and colleagues pushed the 'Fix the MTA' package to freeze fares, boost service, and make buses free. Mamdani argued, 'It is simply not acceptable to put the cost of a basic public good on the backs of working class New Yorkers.' Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris criticized Lieber for insisting on fare hikes while dismissing other budget solutions. Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas opposed making her constituents pay more. Lieber expressed concern about free buses, preferring targeted affordability programs. The hearing highlighted a sharp divide: lawmakers want to protect riders; the MTA wants stable funding. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
MTA Could Nix Fare Hikes with Just $350M More Per Year, Lieber Says,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-02-06
A 21-year-old woman driver suffered head injuries and whiplash after her sedan was rear-ended by an SUV on Laurel Hill Boulevard in Queens. Both vehicles showed no damage. The SUV driver was male and licensed. The sedan was stopped in traffic.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on Laurel Hill Boulevard in Queens involving a 2016 SUV and a 2016 sedan. The sedan, driven by a 21-year-old woman, was stopped in traffic when the SUV, traveling east, struck the sedan’s rear center. The woman sustained head injuries and whiplash but was conscious and wearing a lap belt and harness. The SUV driver was a licensed male driver. The report lists no specific contributing factors or driver errors. Both vehicles showed no damage despite the impact. The sedan driver was not ejected and was injured in the crash.
S 775Gianaris 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 2023-05-16
Box Truck and SUV Crush Motorcyclist on Expressway▸Steel and rubber slammed together on the Long Island Expressway. A box truck, SUV, and motorcycle collided. The biker, 51, was crushed. His leg shattered. Blood pooled. Engines cooled. The road did not stop.
A violent crash unfolded on the Long Island Expressway near Vandam Street in Queens. According to the police report, a box truck, an SUV, and a motorcycle collided. The 51-year-old motorcyclist was crushed, suffering severe injuries to his leg. The report states: 'The biker, 51, was crushed beneath steel and rubber. His leg shattered. He stayed awake. Engines cooled. Blood pooled. The road kept moving.' Police listed 'Aggressive Driving/Road Rage' as a contributing factor. No other injuries were reported for the truck or SUV occupants. The motorcyclist wore a helmet, as noted in the data, but the crash left him badly hurt. The system failed to protect the most vulnerable.
Taxi Turns Left, Hits SUV Passenger▸A taxi making a left turn collided with an SUV going straight on Honeywell Street in Queens. The SUV’s front passenger, a 40-year-old woman, suffered bruises and arm injuries. Police cited failure to yield and unsafe speed as causes.
According to the police report, a taxi traveling north on Honeywell Street attempted a left turn and struck a southbound SUV. The SUV carried four occupants. The front passenger, a 40-year-old woman, was injured with contusions and arm trauma but was conscious and not ejected. The report lists driver errors including failure to yield right-of-way and unsafe speed. The taxi driver’s left turn caused the collision with the SUV’s left front bumper. The SUV passenger’s injury was a contusion to the elbow, lower arm, and hand. Police also noted driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. No helmet or signaling issues were reported.
Unlicensed Moped Driver Injured in Queens Crash▸A moped and sedan collided on Vandam Street in Queens. The moped driver, unlicensed and riding at unsafe speed, was injured with abrasions and leg wounds. The sedan showed no damage despite the impact. Both vehicles were involved in a police pursuit.
According to the police report, a sedan and a moped collided on Vandam Street in Queens during a police pursuit. The moped driver, a 28-year-old male, was injured with abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists 'Unsafe Speed' as a contributing factor. The moped driver was unlicensed. The sedan, driven by a licensed male driver, sustained no damage. The point of impact was the left front quarter panel of the sedan and the right side doors of the moped. The moped driver was wearing a helmet. No other contributing factors were specified.
Sedan Hits 16-Year-Old Bicyclist in Queens▸A sedan and a bike collided on 33 Street near 47 Avenue in Queens. The 16-year-old bicyclist suffered abdominal and pelvic injuries with minor bleeding. The driver’s inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety equipment.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling south and a bike traveling east collided head-on on 33 Street near 47 Avenue in Queens. The bicyclist, a 16-year-old male, sustained injuries to his abdomen and pelvis and was treated for minor bleeding. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors to the crash. The sedan’s front end was damaged, while the bike showed no damage. The bicyclist was not ejected and was in shock at the scene. No safety equipment was reported on the cyclist. The driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of impact.
3SUVs Collide on Vandam Street, Three Passengers Hurt▸Two SUVs crashed head-on on Vandam Street in Queens. Three passengers, ages 2, 9, and 30, suffered whiplash. Police cite driver inattention and distraction. Impact struck left front bumpers. No ejections.
According to the police report, two sport utility vehicles collided head-on on Vandam Street in Queens. Three passengers were injured: a 2-year-old girl in a child restraint, a 9-year-old boy with a lap belt and harness, and a 30-year-old woman with a lap belt. All suffered whiplash and were conscious at the scene. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors, along with reaction to an uninvolved vehicle. The point of impact was the left front bumper on both vehicles. No passengers were ejected. Vehicle damage included the left front and left rear quarter panels.
Michael Gianaris Supports Traffic Signal Installation Despite Limited Safety Impact▸A driver killed a 7-year-old girl at 45th Street and Newtown Road. The city will install a traffic signal. Local leaders and family demanded action. DOT promises more safety. Residents call for broader change. One light will not fix the corridor.
On April 1, 2023, NYC DOT announced a new traffic signal for 45th Street and Newtown Road in Queens. This follows the February death of Dolma Naadhun, age 7, struck by a driver with a learner’s permit. The matter, titled 'NYC to install a traffic signal at the site of Queens crash that killed 7-year-old,' drew support from State Sen. Michael Gianaris, who said, 'I am glad the city is installing a traffic signal at the site of Naadhun's tragic death, in accordance with her family’s wishes.' Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez stated, 'No loss of life on our streets is acceptable.' The DOT has already added curb extensions and new crosswalks. Community members, including Alex Duncan, argue that one signal is not enough and demand systemic safety changes along the corridor. The signal is set for installation in May.
-
NYC to install a traffic signal at the site of Queens crash that killed 7-year-old,
gothamist.com,
Published 2023-04-01
Michael Gianaris Backs Safety Boosting Traffic Light Installation▸A new traffic light will rise at a deadly Queens corner. A girl died here. Her brother begged for change. The city listened. Officials promise more: stop signs, curb extensions, clearer crosswalks. The driver who killed her ran a stop sign. He was unlicensed.
On March 30, 2023, the NYC Department of Transportation announced new safety measures at a Queens intersection where 7-year-old Dolma Naadhum was killed by an SUV. The agency will install a traffic light by May, following a petition from Dolma’s brother and pressure from local leaders. State Senator Michael Gianaris, representing District 12, pledged to honor the family's request, stating, 'We fix Newtown Road where this happened.' The DOT will also add all-way stop signs at a nearby crossing and has already improved crosswalks, extended curbs, and restricted parking for better visibility. The driver in the fatal crash ran a stop sign and lacked a proper license. The city’s action comes after years of complaints about dangerous driving at this intersection.
-
NYC to install traffic light at corner where girl died after brother’s plea,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-30
Teen E-Biker Thrown After Striking Pickup▸A 15-year-old on an e-bike hit the back of a Ford pickup on Queens Boulevard. He flew off, landed hard. Blood pooled from his head. The truck kept moving. The boy was left injured, conscious, on the street.
A 15-year-old boy riding an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup truck on Queens Boulevard near 42nd Street in Queens. According to the police report, 'A 15-year-old boy on an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup. He flew, hit the pavement hard. Blood from his head pooled on the asphalt. The truck kept going, straight into the sun.' The boy was ejected from his bike, suffering severe head lacerations but remained conscious. The police report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as a contributing factor. The pickup truck did not stop after the crash. No helmet use or signaling is mentioned as a factor in the report.
S 4647Gianaris 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 775Gianaris 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
Gianaris Backs Misguided Residential Parking Permit Proposal▸Albany’s push for residential parking permits risks locking in car dominance. Critics say low fees fuel car ownership, crowding out transit, bikes, and green space. Experts warn it’s a subsidy for drivers, not a fix for congestion or emissions.
On March 16, 2023, a Senate proposal surfaced to create a Residential Parking Permit system in New York City. The plan, now under City Council review, would charge drivers up to $30 per month for curbside parking, with revenue aimed at funding the MTA. The proposal leaves key details—like reserving 20% of spaces for non-residents—to the Council. The bill’s summary claims it will reduce emissions and support transit. Senator Michael Gianaris supports the measure, but critics are blunt. Bike New York’s Jon Orcutt calls it a 'big nothingburger.' Donald Shoup says the $30 fee is a subsidy for cars. Elizabeth Adams of Transportation Alternatives argues, 'public space should be used for transit, bike lanes, and green space, not car storage.' Studies show similar programs in other cities have failed to cut congestion or emissions, and may even increase car ownership. The Department of Transportation has testified against the plan, warning it entrenches private car storage at the expense of vulnerable road users.
-
Albany’s Residential Parking Program Won’t Be Good for New York City: Analysis,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-16
Gianaris Supports Traffic Light After Queens Child Death▸A girl died at a Queens intersection. Her brother started a petition. Over 26,000 signed. Neighbors and State Sen. Michael Gianaris demand a traffic light. DOT hesitates. Drivers keep ignoring stop signs. The crosswalk remains deadly. The city stalls. Families mourn.
On March 5, 2023, State Senator Michael Gianaris responded to the death of Dolma Naadhum, a 7-year-old killed at a Newtown Road intersection in Astoria, Queens. The incident sparked a petition—over 26,000 signatures—calling for traffic lights to replace stop signs at three crossings. Gianaris pledged to 'make sure we fix Newtown Road where this happened, and to honor her father's request that there be traffic lights there.' The Department of Transportation upgraded crosswalk markings but has not committed to a traffic light, citing a low crash history. Residents and the victim’s family say the intersection remains dangerous, with drivers ignoring stop signs. Gianaris’s support highlights official recognition of the need for stronger protections for pedestrians, especially children, at this site.
-
11-year-old brother of NYC girl killed at intersection calls for new traffic light,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-05
S 4647Gianaris 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 2023-02-28
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
Pedestrian Struck Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 25-year-old woman crossing Queens Boulevard with the signal was hit by a speeding vehicle. The driver was inattentive and distracted. The pedestrian suffered back injuries and shock. The crash happened late at night in Queens.
According to the police report, a 25-year-old female pedestrian was crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection with the signal when she was struck by a vehicle traveling north. The pedestrian sustained back injuries and was in shock, complaining of pain and nausea. The report lists the driver's unsafe speed and inattention or distraction as contributing factors. The vehicle impacted the pedestrian at the center front end. No other vehicle details or driver information were provided. The pedestrian was not blamed for the crash.
Gianaris Criticizes Lieber for Harmful MTA Fare Hikes▸MTA Chair Janno Lieber told lawmakers the agency needs $350 million yearly to avoid fare hikes. Legislators pushed back. They called for taxing the wealthy, not straphangers. The fight centers on who pays for transit. Riders wait. The stakes are high.
On February 6, 2023, during a legislative hearing on MTA funding and fare policy, MTA Chair Janno Lieber testified that the agency needs $350 million more each year to prevent subway and bus fare hikes. The hearing, part of the state budget process, saw Lieber defend Governor Hochul’s proposed 5.5-percent fare increase as a return to regular hikes paused during the pandemic. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and colleagues pushed the 'Fix the MTA' package to freeze fares, boost service, and make buses free. Mamdani argued, 'It is simply not acceptable to put the cost of a basic public good on the backs of working class New Yorkers.' Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris criticized Lieber for insisting on fare hikes while dismissing other budget solutions. Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas opposed making her constituents pay more. Lieber expressed concern about free buses, preferring targeted affordability programs. The hearing highlighted a sharp divide: lawmakers want to protect riders; the MTA wants stable funding. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
MTA Could Nix Fare Hikes with Just $350M More Per Year, Lieber Says,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-02-06
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 2023-05-16
Box Truck and SUV Crush Motorcyclist on Expressway▸Steel and rubber slammed together on the Long Island Expressway. A box truck, SUV, and motorcycle collided. The biker, 51, was crushed. His leg shattered. Blood pooled. Engines cooled. The road did not stop.
A violent crash unfolded on the Long Island Expressway near Vandam Street in Queens. According to the police report, a box truck, an SUV, and a motorcycle collided. The 51-year-old motorcyclist was crushed, suffering severe injuries to his leg. The report states: 'The biker, 51, was crushed beneath steel and rubber. His leg shattered. He stayed awake. Engines cooled. Blood pooled. The road kept moving.' Police listed 'Aggressive Driving/Road Rage' as a contributing factor. No other injuries were reported for the truck or SUV occupants. The motorcyclist wore a helmet, as noted in the data, but the crash left him badly hurt. The system failed to protect the most vulnerable.
Taxi Turns Left, Hits SUV Passenger▸A taxi making a left turn collided with an SUV going straight on Honeywell Street in Queens. The SUV’s front passenger, a 40-year-old woman, suffered bruises and arm injuries. Police cited failure to yield and unsafe speed as causes.
According to the police report, a taxi traveling north on Honeywell Street attempted a left turn and struck a southbound SUV. The SUV carried four occupants. The front passenger, a 40-year-old woman, was injured with contusions and arm trauma but was conscious and not ejected. The report lists driver errors including failure to yield right-of-way and unsafe speed. The taxi driver’s left turn caused the collision with the SUV’s left front bumper. The SUV passenger’s injury was a contusion to the elbow, lower arm, and hand. Police also noted driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. No helmet or signaling issues were reported.
Unlicensed Moped Driver Injured in Queens Crash▸A moped and sedan collided on Vandam Street in Queens. The moped driver, unlicensed and riding at unsafe speed, was injured with abrasions and leg wounds. The sedan showed no damage despite the impact. Both vehicles were involved in a police pursuit.
According to the police report, a sedan and a moped collided on Vandam Street in Queens during a police pursuit. The moped driver, a 28-year-old male, was injured with abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists 'Unsafe Speed' as a contributing factor. The moped driver was unlicensed. The sedan, driven by a licensed male driver, sustained no damage. The point of impact was the left front quarter panel of the sedan and the right side doors of the moped. The moped driver was wearing a helmet. No other contributing factors were specified.
Sedan Hits 16-Year-Old Bicyclist in Queens▸A sedan and a bike collided on 33 Street near 47 Avenue in Queens. The 16-year-old bicyclist suffered abdominal and pelvic injuries with minor bleeding. The driver’s inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety equipment.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling south and a bike traveling east collided head-on on 33 Street near 47 Avenue in Queens. The bicyclist, a 16-year-old male, sustained injuries to his abdomen and pelvis and was treated for minor bleeding. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors to the crash. The sedan’s front end was damaged, while the bike showed no damage. The bicyclist was not ejected and was in shock at the scene. No safety equipment was reported on the cyclist. The driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of impact.
3SUVs Collide on Vandam Street, Three Passengers Hurt▸Two SUVs crashed head-on on Vandam Street in Queens. Three passengers, ages 2, 9, and 30, suffered whiplash. Police cite driver inattention and distraction. Impact struck left front bumpers. No ejections.
According to the police report, two sport utility vehicles collided head-on on Vandam Street in Queens. Three passengers were injured: a 2-year-old girl in a child restraint, a 9-year-old boy with a lap belt and harness, and a 30-year-old woman with a lap belt. All suffered whiplash and were conscious at the scene. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors, along with reaction to an uninvolved vehicle. The point of impact was the left front bumper on both vehicles. No passengers were ejected. Vehicle damage included the left front and left rear quarter panels.
Michael Gianaris Supports Traffic Signal Installation Despite Limited Safety Impact▸A driver killed a 7-year-old girl at 45th Street and Newtown Road. The city will install a traffic signal. Local leaders and family demanded action. DOT promises more safety. Residents call for broader change. One light will not fix the corridor.
On April 1, 2023, NYC DOT announced a new traffic signal for 45th Street and Newtown Road in Queens. This follows the February death of Dolma Naadhun, age 7, struck by a driver with a learner’s permit. The matter, titled 'NYC to install a traffic signal at the site of Queens crash that killed 7-year-old,' drew support from State Sen. Michael Gianaris, who said, 'I am glad the city is installing a traffic signal at the site of Naadhun's tragic death, in accordance with her family’s wishes.' Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez stated, 'No loss of life on our streets is acceptable.' The DOT has already added curb extensions and new crosswalks. Community members, including Alex Duncan, argue that one signal is not enough and demand systemic safety changes along the corridor. The signal is set for installation in May.
-
NYC to install a traffic signal at the site of Queens crash that killed 7-year-old,
gothamist.com,
Published 2023-04-01
Michael Gianaris Backs Safety Boosting Traffic Light Installation▸A new traffic light will rise at a deadly Queens corner. A girl died here. Her brother begged for change. The city listened. Officials promise more: stop signs, curb extensions, clearer crosswalks. The driver who killed her ran a stop sign. He was unlicensed.
On March 30, 2023, the NYC Department of Transportation announced new safety measures at a Queens intersection where 7-year-old Dolma Naadhum was killed by an SUV. The agency will install a traffic light by May, following a petition from Dolma’s brother and pressure from local leaders. State Senator Michael Gianaris, representing District 12, pledged to honor the family's request, stating, 'We fix Newtown Road where this happened.' The DOT will also add all-way stop signs at a nearby crossing and has already improved crosswalks, extended curbs, and restricted parking for better visibility. The driver in the fatal crash ran a stop sign and lacked a proper license. The city’s action comes after years of complaints about dangerous driving at this intersection.
-
NYC to install traffic light at corner where girl died after brother’s plea,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-30
Teen E-Biker Thrown After Striking Pickup▸A 15-year-old on an e-bike hit the back of a Ford pickup on Queens Boulevard. He flew off, landed hard. Blood pooled from his head. The truck kept moving. The boy was left injured, conscious, on the street.
A 15-year-old boy riding an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup truck on Queens Boulevard near 42nd Street in Queens. According to the police report, 'A 15-year-old boy on an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup. He flew, hit the pavement hard. Blood from his head pooled on the asphalt. The truck kept going, straight into the sun.' The boy was ejected from his bike, suffering severe head lacerations but remained conscious. The police report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as a contributing factor. The pickup truck did not stop after the crash. No helmet use or signaling is mentioned as a factor in the report.
S 4647Gianaris 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 775Gianaris 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
Gianaris Backs Misguided Residential Parking Permit Proposal▸Albany’s push for residential parking permits risks locking in car dominance. Critics say low fees fuel car ownership, crowding out transit, bikes, and green space. Experts warn it’s a subsidy for drivers, not a fix for congestion or emissions.
On March 16, 2023, a Senate proposal surfaced to create a Residential Parking Permit system in New York City. The plan, now under City Council review, would charge drivers up to $30 per month for curbside parking, with revenue aimed at funding the MTA. The proposal leaves key details—like reserving 20% of spaces for non-residents—to the Council. The bill’s summary claims it will reduce emissions and support transit. Senator Michael Gianaris supports the measure, but critics are blunt. Bike New York’s Jon Orcutt calls it a 'big nothingburger.' Donald Shoup says the $30 fee is a subsidy for cars. Elizabeth Adams of Transportation Alternatives argues, 'public space should be used for transit, bike lanes, and green space, not car storage.' Studies show similar programs in other cities have failed to cut congestion or emissions, and may even increase car ownership. The Department of Transportation has testified against the plan, warning it entrenches private car storage at the expense of vulnerable road users.
-
Albany’s Residential Parking Program Won’t Be Good for New York City: Analysis,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-16
Gianaris Supports Traffic Light After Queens Child Death▸A girl died at a Queens intersection. Her brother started a petition. Over 26,000 signed. Neighbors and State Sen. Michael Gianaris demand a traffic light. DOT hesitates. Drivers keep ignoring stop signs. The crosswalk remains deadly. The city stalls. Families mourn.
On March 5, 2023, State Senator Michael Gianaris responded to the death of Dolma Naadhum, a 7-year-old killed at a Newtown Road intersection in Astoria, Queens. The incident sparked a petition—over 26,000 signatures—calling for traffic lights to replace stop signs at three crossings. Gianaris pledged to 'make sure we fix Newtown Road where this happened, and to honor her father's request that there be traffic lights there.' The Department of Transportation upgraded crosswalk markings but has not committed to a traffic light, citing a low crash history. Residents and the victim’s family say the intersection remains dangerous, with drivers ignoring stop signs. Gianaris’s support highlights official recognition of the need for stronger protections for pedestrians, especially children, at this site.
-
11-year-old brother of NYC girl killed at intersection calls for new traffic light,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-05
S 4647Gianaris 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 2023-02-28
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
Pedestrian Struck Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 25-year-old woman crossing Queens Boulevard with the signal was hit by a speeding vehicle. The driver was inattentive and distracted. The pedestrian suffered back injuries and shock. The crash happened late at night in Queens.
According to the police report, a 25-year-old female pedestrian was crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection with the signal when she was struck by a vehicle traveling north. The pedestrian sustained back injuries and was in shock, complaining of pain and nausea. The report lists the driver's unsafe speed and inattention or distraction as contributing factors. The vehicle impacted the pedestrian at the center front end. No other vehicle details or driver information were provided. The pedestrian was not blamed for the crash.
Gianaris Criticizes Lieber for Harmful MTA Fare Hikes▸MTA Chair Janno Lieber told lawmakers the agency needs $350 million yearly to avoid fare hikes. Legislators pushed back. They called for taxing the wealthy, not straphangers. The fight centers on who pays for transit. Riders wait. The stakes are high.
On February 6, 2023, during a legislative hearing on MTA funding and fare policy, MTA Chair Janno Lieber testified that the agency needs $350 million more each year to prevent subway and bus fare hikes. The hearing, part of the state budget process, saw Lieber defend Governor Hochul’s proposed 5.5-percent fare increase as a return to regular hikes paused during the pandemic. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and colleagues pushed the 'Fix the MTA' package to freeze fares, boost service, and make buses free. Mamdani argued, 'It is simply not acceptable to put the cost of a basic public good on the backs of working class New Yorkers.' Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris criticized Lieber for insisting on fare hikes while dismissing other budget solutions. Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas opposed making her constituents pay more. Lieber expressed concern about free buses, preferring targeted affordability programs. The hearing highlighted a sharp divide: lawmakers want to protect riders; the MTA wants stable funding. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
MTA Could Nix Fare Hikes with Just $350M More Per Year, Lieber Says,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-02-06
Steel and rubber slammed together on the Long Island Expressway. A box truck, SUV, and motorcycle collided. The biker, 51, was crushed. His leg shattered. Blood pooled. Engines cooled. The road did not stop.
A violent crash unfolded on the Long Island Expressway near Vandam Street in Queens. According to the police report, a box truck, an SUV, and a motorcycle collided. The 51-year-old motorcyclist was crushed, suffering severe injuries to his leg. The report states: 'The biker, 51, was crushed beneath steel and rubber. His leg shattered. He stayed awake. Engines cooled. Blood pooled. The road kept moving.' Police listed 'Aggressive Driving/Road Rage' as a contributing factor. No other injuries were reported for the truck or SUV occupants. The motorcyclist wore a helmet, as noted in the data, but the crash left him badly hurt. The system failed to protect the most vulnerable.
Taxi Turns Left, Hits SUV Passenger▸A taxi making a left turn collided with an SUV going straight on Honeywell Street in Queens. The SUV’s front passenger, a 40-year-old woman, suffered bruises and arm injuries. Police cited failure to yield and unsafe speed as causes.
According to the police report, a taxi traveling north on Honeywell Street attempted a left turn and struck a southbound SUV. The SUV carried four occupants. The front passenger, a 40-year-old woman, was injured with contusions and arm trauma but was conscious and not ejected. The report lists driver errors including failure to yield right-of-way and unsafe speed. The taxi driver’s left turn caused the collision with the SUV’s left front bumper. The SUV passenger’s injury was a contusion to the elbow, lower arm, and hand. Police also noted driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. No helmet or signaling issues were reported.
Unlicensed Moped Driver Injured in Queens Crash▸A moped and sedan collided on Vandam Street in Queens. The moped driver, unlicensed and riding at unsafe speed, was injured with abrasions and leg wounds. The sedan showed no damage despite the impact. Both vehicles were involved in a police pursuit.
According to the police report, a sedan and a moped collided on Vandam Street in Queens during a police pursuit. The moped driver, a 28-year-old male, was injured with abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists 'Unsafe Speed' as a contributing factor. The moped driver was unlicensed. The sedan, driven by a licensed male driver, sustained no damage. The point of impact was the left front quarter panel of the sedan and the right side doors of the moped. The moped driver was wearing a helmet. No other contributing factors were specified.
Sedan Hits 16-Year-Old Bicyclist in Queens▸A sedan and a bike collided on 33 Street near 47 Avenue in Queens. The 16-year-old bicyclist suffered abdominal and pelvic injuries with minor bleeding. The driver’s inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety equipment.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling south and a bike traveling east collided head-on on 33 Street near 47 Avenue in Queens. The bicyclist, a 16-year-old male, sustained injuries to his abdomen and pelvis and was treated for minor bleeding. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors to the crash. The sedan’s front end was damaged, while the bike showed no damage. The bicyclist was not ejected and was in shock at the scene. No safety equipment was reported on the cyclist. The driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of impact.
3SUVs Collide on Vandam Street, Three Passengers Hurt▸Two SUVs crashed head-on on Vandam Street in Queens. Three passengers, ages 2, 9, and 30, suffered whiplash. Police cite driver inattention and distraction. Impact struck left front bumpers. No ejections.
According to the police report, two sport utility vehicles collided head-on on Vandam Street in Queens. Three passengers were injured: a 2-year-old girl in a child restraint, a 9-year-old boy with a lap belt and harness, and a 30-year-old woman with a lap belt. All suffered whiplash and were conscious at the scene. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors, along with reaction to an uninvolved vehicle. The point of impact was the left front bumper on both vehicles. No passengers were ejected. Vehicle damage included the left front and left rear quarter panels.
Michael Gianaris Supports Traffic Signal Installation Despite Limited Safety Impact▸A driver killed a 7-year-old girl at 45th Street and Newtown Road. The city will install a traffic signal. Local leaders and family demanded action. DOT promises more safety. Residents call for broader change. One light will not fix the corridor.
On April 1, 2023, NYC DOT announced a new traffic signal for 45th Street and Newtown Road in Queens. This follows the February death of Dolma Naadhun, age 7, struck by a driver with a learner’s permit. The matter, titled 'NYC to install a traffic signal at the site of Queens crash that killed 7-year-old,' drew support from State Sen. Michael Gianaris, who said, 'I am glad the city is installing a traffic signal at the site of Naadhun's tragic death, in accordance with her family’s wishes.' Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez stated, 'No loss of life on our streets is acceptable.' The DOT has already added curb extensions and new crosswalks. Community members, including Alex Duncan, argue that one signal is not enough and demand systemic safety changes along the corridor. The signal is set for installation in May.
-
NYC to install a traffic signal at the site of Queens crash that killed 7-year-old,
gothamist.com,
Published 2023-04-01
Michael Gianaris Backs Safety Boosting Traffic Light Installation▸A new traffic light will rise at a deadly Queens corner. A girl died here. Her brother begged for change. The city listened. Officials promise more: stop signs, curb extensions, clearer crosswalks. The driver who killed her ran a stop sign. He was unlicensed.
On March 30, 2023, the NYC Department of Transportation announced new safety measures at a Queens intersection where 7-year-old Dolma Naadhum was killed by an SUV. The agency will install a traffic light by May, following a petition from Dolma’s brother and pressure from local leaders. State Senator Michael Gianaris, representing District 12, pledged to honor the family's request, stating, 'We fix Newtown Road where this happened.' The DOT will also add all-way stop signs at a nearby crossing and has already improved crosswalks, extended curbs, and restricted parking for better visibility. The driver in the fatal crash ran a stop sign and lacked a proper license. The city’s action comes after years of complaints about dangerous driving at this intersection.
-
NYC to install traffic light at corner where girl died after brother’s plea,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-30
Teen E-Biker Thrown After Striking Pickup▸A 15-year-old on an e-bike hit the back of a Ford pickup on Queens Boulevard. He flew off, landed hard. Blood pooled from his head. The truck kept moving. The boy was left injured, conscious, on the street.
A 15-year-old boy riding an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup truck on Queens Boulevard near 42nd Street in Queens. According to the police report, 'A 15-year-old boy on an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup. He flew, hit the pavement hard. Blood from his head pooled on the asphalt. The truck kept going, straight into the sun.' The boy was ejected from his bike, suffering severe head lacerations but remained conscious. The police report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as a contributing factor. The pickup truck did not stop after the crash. No helmet use or signaling is mentioned as a factor in the report.
S 4647Gianaris 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 775Gianaris 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
Gianaris Backs Misguided Residential Parking Permit Proposal▸Albany’s push for residential parking permits risks locking in car dominance. Critics say low fees fuel car ownership, crowding out transit, bikes, and green space. Experts warn it’s a subsidy for drivers, not a fix for congestion or emissions.
On March 16, 2023, a Senate proposal surfaced to create a Residential Parking Permit system in New York City. The plan, now under City Council review, would charge drivers up to $30 per month for curbside parking, with revenue aimed at funding the MTA. The proposal leaves key details—like reserving 20% of spaces for non-residents—to the Council. The bill’s summary claims it will reduce emissions and support transit. Senator Michael Gianaris supports the measure, but critics are blunt. Bike New York’s Jon Orcutt calls it a 'big nothingburger.' Donald Shoup says the $30 fee is a subsidy for cars. Elizabeth Adams of Transportation Alternatives argues, 'public space should be used for transit, bike lanes, and green space, not car storage.' Studies show similar programs in other cities have failed to cut congestion or emissions, and may even increase car ownership. The Department of Transportation has testified against the plan, warning it entrenches private car storage at the expense of vulnerable road users.
-
Albany’s Residential Parking Program Won’t Be Good for New York City: Analysis,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-16
Gianaris Supports Traffic Light After Queens Child Death▸A girl died at a Queens intersection. Her brother started a petition. Over 26,000 signed. Neighbors and State Sen. Michael Gianaris demand a traffic light. DOT hesitates. Drivers keep ignoring stop signs. The crosswalk remains deadly. The city stalls. Families mourn.
On March 5, 2023, State Senator Michael Gianaris responded to the death of Dolma Naadhum, a 7-year-old killed at a Newtown Road intersection in Astoria, Queens. The incident sparked a petition—over 26,000 signatures—calling for traffic lights to replace stop signs at three crossings. Gianaris pledged to 'make sure we fix Newtown Road where this happened, and to honor her father's request that there be traffic lights there.' The Department of Transportation upgraded crosswalk markings but has not committed to a traffic light, citing a low crash history. Residents and the victim’s family say the intersection remains dangerous, with drivers ignoring stop signs. Gianaris’s support highlights official recognition of the need for stronger protections for pedestrians, especially children, at this site.
-
11-year-old brother of NYC girl killed at intersection calls for new traffic light,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-05
S 4647Gianaris 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 2023-02-28
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
Pedestrian Struck Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 25-year-old woman crossing Queens Boulevard with the signal was hit by a speeding vehicle. The driver was inattentive and distracted. The pedestrian suffered back injuries and shock. The crash happened late at night in Queens.
According to the police report, a 25-year-old female pedestrian was crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection with the signal when she was struck by a vehicle traveling north. The pedestrian sustained back injuries and was in shock, complaining of pain and nausea. The report lists the driver's unsafe speed and inattention or distraction as contributing factors. The vehicle impacted the pedestrian at the center front end. No other vehicle details or driver information were provided. The pedestrian was not blamed for the crash.
Gianaris Criticizes Lieber for Harmful MTA Fare Hikes▸MTA Chair Janno Lieber told lawmakers the agency needs $350 million yearly to avoid fare hikes. Legislators pushed back. They called for taxing the wealthy, not straphangers. The fight centers on who pays for transit. Riders wait. The stakes are high.
On February 6, 2023, during a legislative hearing on MTA funding and fare policy, MTA Chair Janno Lieber testified that the agency needs $350 million more each year to prevent subway and bus fare hikes. The hearing, part of the state budget process, saw Lieber defend Governor Hochul’s proposed 5.5-percent fare increase as a return to regular hikes paused during the pandemic. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and colleagues pushed the 'Fix the MTA' package to freeze fares, boost service, and make buses free. Mamdani argued, 'It is simply not acceptable to put the cost of a basic public good on the backs of working class New Yorkers.' Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris criticized Lieber for insisting on fare hikes while dismissing other budget solutions. Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas opposed making her constituents pay more. Lieber expressed concern about free buses, preferring targeted affordability programs. The hearing highlighted a sharp divide: lawmakers want to protect riders; the MTA wants stable funding. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
MTA Could Nix Fare Hikes with Just $350M More Per Year, Lieber Says,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-02-06
A taxi making a left turn collided with an SUV going straight on Honeywell Street in Queens. The SUV’s front passenger, a 40-year-old woman, suffered bruises and arm injuries. Police cited failure to yield and unsafe speed as causes.
According to the police report, a taxi traveling north on Honeywell Street attempted a left turn and struck a southbound SUV. The SUV carried four occupants. The front passenger, a 40-year-old woman, was injured with contusions and arm trauma but was conscious and not ejected. The report lists driver errors including failure to yield right-of-way and unsafe speed. The taxi driver’s left turn caused the collision with the SUV’s left front bumper. The SUV passenger’s injury was a contusion to the elbow, lower arm, and hand. Police also noted driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. No helmet or signaling issues were reported.
Unlicensed Moped Driver Injured in Queens Crash▸A moped and sedan collided on Vandam Street in Queens. The moped driver, unlicensed and riding at unsafe speed, was injured with abrasions and leg wounds. The sedan showed no damage despite the impact. Both vehicles were involved in a police pursuit.
According to the police report, a sedan and a moped collided on Vandam Street in Queens during a police pursuit. The moped driver, a 28-year-old male, was injured with abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists 'Unsafe Speed' as a contributing factor. The moped driver was unlicensed. The sedan, driven by a licensed male driver, sustained no damage. The point of impact was the left front quarter panel of the sedan and the right side doors of the moped. The moped driver was wearing a helmet. No other contributing factors were specified.
Sedan Hits 16-Year-Old Bicyclist in Queens▸A sedan and a bike collided on 33 Street near 47 Avenue in Queens. The 16-year-old bicyclist suffered abdominal and pelvic injuries with minor bleeding. The driver’s inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety equipment.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling south and a bike traveling east collided head-on on 33 Street near 47 Avenue in Queens. The bicyclist, a 16-year-old male, sustained injuries to his abdomen and pelvis and was treated for minor bleeding. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors to the crash. The sedan’s front end was damaged, while the bike showed no damage. The bicyclist was not ejected and was in shock at the scene. No safety equipment was reported on the cyclist. The driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of impact.
3SUVs Collide on Vandam Street, Three Passengers Hurt▸Two SUVs crashed head-on on Vandam Street in Queens. Three passengers, ages 2, 9, and 30, suffered whiplash. Police cite driver inattention and distraction. Impact struck left front bumpers. No ejections.
According to the police report, two sport utility vehicles collided head-on on Vandam Street in Queens. Three passengers were injured: a 2-year-old girl in a child restraint, a 9-year-old boy with a lap belt and harness, and a 30-year-old woman with a lap belt. All suffered whiplash and were conscious at the scene. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors, along with reaction to an uninvolved vehicle. The point of impact was the left front bumper on both vehicles. No passengers were ejected. Vehicle damage included the left front and left rear quarter panels.
Michael Gianaris Supports Traffic Signal Installation Despite Limited Safety Impact▸A driver killed a 7-year-old girl at 45th Street and Newtown Road. The city will install a traffic signal. Local leaders and family demanded action. DOT promises more safety. Residents call for broader change. One light will not fix the corridor.
On April 1, 2023, NYC DOT announced a new traffic signal for 45th Street and Newtown Road in Queens. This follows the February death of Dolma Naadhun, age 7, struck by a driver with a learner’s permit. The matter, titled 'NYC to install a traffic signal at the site of Queens crash that killed 7-year-old,' drew support from State Sen. Michael Gianaris, who said, 'I am glad the city is installing a traffic signal at the site of Naadhun's tragic death, in accordance with her family’s wishes.' Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez stated, 'No loss of life on our streets is acceptable.' The DOT has already added curb extensions and new crosswalks. Community members, including Alex Duncan, argue that one signal is not enough and demand systemic safety changes along the corridor. The signal is set for installation in May.
-
NYC to install a traffic signal at the site of Queens crash that killed 7-year-old,
gothamist.com,
Published 2023-04-01
Michael Gianaris Backs Safety Boosting Traffic Light Installation▸A new traffic light will rise at a deadly Queens corner. A girl died here. Her brother begged for change. The city listened. Officials promise more: stop signs, curb extensions, clearer crosswalks. The driver who killed her ran a stop sign. He was unlicensed.
On March 30, 2023, the NYC Department of Transportation announced new safety measures at a Queens intersection where 7-year-old Dolma Naadhum was killed by an SUV. The agency will install a traffic light by May, following a petition from Dolma’s brother and pressure from local leaders. State Senator Michael Gianaris, representing District 12, pledged to honor the family's request, stating, 'We fix Newtown Road where this happened.' The DOT will also add all-way stop signs at a nearby crossing and has already improved crosswalks, extended curbs, and restricted parking for better visibility. The driver in the fatal crash ran a stop sign and lacked a proper license. The city’s action comes after years of complaints about dangerous driving at this intersection.
-
NYC to install traffic light at corner where girl died after brother’s plea,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-30
Teen E-Biker Thrown After Striking Pickup▸A 15-year-old on an e-bike hit the back of a Ford pickup on Queens Boulevard. He flew off, landed hard. Blood pooled from his head. The truck kept moving. The boy was left injured, conscious, on the street.
A 15-year-old boy riding an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup truck on Queens Boulevard near 42nd Street in Queens. According to the police report, 'A 15-year-old boy on an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup. He flew, hit the pavement hard. Blood from his head pooled on the asphalt. The truck kept going, straight into the sun.' The boy was ejected from his bike, suffering severe head lacerations but remained conscious. The police report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as a contributing factor. The pickup truck did not stop after the crash. No helmet use or signaling is mentioned as a factor in the report.
S 4647Gianaris 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 775Gianaris 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
Gianaris Backs Misguided Residential Parking Permit Proposal▸Albany’s push for residential parking permits risks locking in car dominance. Critics say low fees fuel car ownership, crowding out transit, bikes, and green space. Experts warn it’s a subsidy for drivers, not a fix for congestion or emissions.
On March 16, 2023, a Senate proposal surfaced to create a Residential Parking Permit system in New York City. The plan, now under City Council review, would charge drivers up to $30 per month for curbside parking, with revenue aimed at funding the MTA. The proposal leaves key details—like reserving 20% of spaces for non-residents—to the Council. The bill’s summary claims it will reduce emissions and support transit. Senator Michael Gianaris supports the measure, but critics are blunt. Bike New York’s Jon Orcutt calls it a 'big nothingburger.' Donald Shoup says the $30 fee is a subsidy for cars. Elizabeth Adams of Transportation Alternatives argues, 'public space should be used for transit, bike lanes, and green space, not car storage.' Studies show similar programs in other cities have failed to cut congestion or emissions, and may even increase car ownership. The Department of Transportation has testified against the plan, warning it entrenches private car storage at the expense of vulnerable road users.
-
Albany’s Residential Parking Program Won’t Be Good for New York City: Analysis,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-16
Gianaris Supports Traffic Light After Queens Child Death▸A girl died at a Queens intersection. Her brother started a petition. Over 26,000 signed. Neighbors and State Sen. Michael Gianaris demand a traffic light. DOT hesitates. Drivers keep ignoring stop signs. The crosswalk remains deadly. The city stalls. Families mourn.
On March 5, 2023, State Senator Michael Gianaris responded to the death of Dolma Naadhum, a 7-year-old killed at a Newtown Road intersection in Astoria, Queens. The incident sparked a petition—over 26,000 signatures—calling for traffic lights to replace stop signs at three crossings. Gianaris pledged to 'make sure we fix Newtown Road where this happened, and to honor her father's request that there be traffic lights there.' The Department of Transportation upgraded crosswalk markings but has not committed to a traffic light, citing a low crash history. Residents and the victim’s family say the intersection remains dangerous, with drivers ignoring stop signs. Gianaris’s support highlights official recognition of the need for stronger protections for pedestrians, especially children, at this site.
-
11-year-old brother of NYC girl killed at intersection calls for new traffic light,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-05
S 4647Gianaris 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 2023-02-28
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
Pedestrian Struck Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 25-year-old woman crossing Queens Boulevard with the signal was hit by a speeding vehicle. The driver was inattentive and distracted. The pedestrian suffered back injuries and shock. The crash happened late at night in Queens.
According to the police report, a 25-year-old female pedestrian was crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection with the signal when she was struck by a vehicle traveling north. The pedestrian sustained back injuries and was in shock, complaining of pain and nausea. The report lists the driver's unsafe speed and inattention or distraction as contributing factors. The vehicle impacted the pedestrian at the center front end. No other vehicle details or driver information were provided. The pedestrian was not blamed for the crash.
Gianaris Criticizes Lieber for Harmful MTA Fare Hikes▸MTA Chair Janno Lieber told lawmakers the agency needs $350 million yearly to avoid fare hikes. Legislators pushed back. They called for taxing the wealthy, not straphangers. The fight centers on who pays for transit. Riders wait. The stakes are high.
On February 6, 2023, during a legislative hearing on MTA funding and fare policy, MTA Chair Janno Lieber testified that the agency needs $350 million more each year to prevent subway and bus fare hikes. The hearing, part of the state budget process, saw Lieber defend Governor Hochul’s proposed 5.5-percent fare increase as a return to regular hikes paused during the pandemic. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and colleagues pushed the 'Fix the MTA' package to freeze fares, boost service, and make buses free. Mamdani argued, 'It is simply not acceptable to put the cost of a basic public good on the backs of working class New Yorkers.' Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris criticized Lieber for insisting on fare hikes while dismissing other budget solutions. Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas opposed making her constituents pay more. Lieber expressed concern about free buses, preferring targeted affordability programs. The hearing highlighted a sharp divide: lawmakers want to protect riders; the MTA wants stable funding. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
MTA Could Nix Fare Hikes with Just $350M More Per Year, Lieber Says,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-02-06
A moped and sedan collided on Vandam Street in Queens. The moped driver, unlicensed and riding at unsafe speed, was injured with abrasions and leg wounds. The sedan showed no damage despite the impact. Both vehicles were involved in a police pursuit.
According to the police report, a sedan and a moped collided on Vandam Street in Queens during a police pursuit. The moped driver, a 28-year-old male, was injured with abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists 'Unsafe Speed' as a contributing factor. The moped driver was unlicensed. The sedan, driven by a licensed male driver, sustained no damage. The point of impact was the left front quarter panel of the sedan and the right side doors of the moped. The moped driver was wearing a helmet. No other contributing factors were specified.
Sedan Hits 16-Year-Old Bicyclist in Queens▸A sedan and a bike collided on 33 Street near 47 Avenue in Queens. The 16-year-old bicyclist suffered abdominal and pelvic injuries with minor bleeding. The driver’s inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety equipment.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling south and a bike traveling east collided head-on on 33 Street near 47 Avenue in Queens. The bicyclist, a 16-year-old male, sustained injuries to his abdomen and pelvis and was treated for minor bleeding. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors to the crash. The sedan’s front end was damaged, while the bike showed no damage. The bicyclist was not ejected and was in shock at the scene. No safety equipment was reported on the cyclist. The driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of impact.
3SUVs Collide on Vandam Street, Three Passengers Hurt▸Two SUVs crashed head-on on Vandam Street in Queens. Three passengers, ages 2, 9, and 30, suffered whiplash. Police cite driver inattention and distraction. Impact struck left front bumpers. No ejections.
According to the police report, two sport utility vehicles collided head-on on Vandam Street in Queens. Three passengers were injured: a 2-year-old girl in a child restraint, a 9-year-old boy with a lap belt and harness, and a 30-year-old woman with a lap belt. All suffered whiplash and were conscious at the scene. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors, along with reaction to an uninvolved vehicle. The point of impact was the left front bumper on both vehicles. No passengers were ejected. Vehicle damage included the left front and left rear quarter panels.
Michael Gianaris Supports Traffic Signal Installation Despite Limited Safety Impact▸A driver killed a 7-year-old girl at 45th Street and Newtown Road. The city will install a traffic signal. Local leaders and family demanded action. DOT promises more safety. Residents call for broader change. One light will not fix the corridor.
On April 1, 2023, NYC DOT announced a new traffic signal for 45th Street and Newtown Road in Queens. This follows the February death of Dolma Naadhun, age 7, struck by a driver with a learner’s permit. The matter, titled 'NYC to install a traffic signal at the site of Queens crash that killed 7-year-old,' drew support from State Sen. Michael Gianaris, who said, 'I am glad the city is installing a traffic signal at the site of Naadhun's tragic death, in accordance with her family’s wishes.' Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez stated, 'No loss of life on our streets is acceptable.' The DOT has already added curb extensions and new crosswalks. Community members, including Alex Duncan, argue that one signal is not enough and demand systemic safety changes along the corridor. The signal is set for installation in May.
-
NYC to install a traffic signal at the site of Queens crash that killed 7-year-old,
gothamist.com,
Published 2023-04-01
Michael Gianaris Backs Safety Boosting Traffic Light Installation▸A new traffic light will rise at a deadly Queens corner. A girl died here. Her brother begged for change. The city listened. Officials promise more: stop signs, curb extensions, clearer crosswalks. The driver who killed her ran a stop sign. He was unlicensed.
On March 30, 2023, the NYC Department of Transportation announced new safety measures at a Queens intersection where 7-year-old Dolma Naadhum was killed by an SUV. The agency will install a traffic light by May, following a petition from Dolma’s brother and pressure from local leaders. State Senator Michael Gianaris, representing District 12, pledged to honor the family's request, stating, 'We fix Newtown Road where this happened.' The DOT will also add all-way stop signs at a nearby crossing and has already improved crosswalks, extended curbs, and restricted parking for better visibility. The driver in the fatal crash ran a stop sign and lacked a proper license. The city’s action comes after years of complaints about dangerous driving at this intersection.
-
NYC to install traffic light at corner where girl died after brother’s plea,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-30
Teen E-Biker Thrown After Striking Pickup▸A 15-year-old on an e-bike hit the back of a Ford pickup on Queens Boulevard. He flew off, landed hard. Blood pooled from his head. The truck kept moving. The boy was left injured, conscious, on the street.
A 15-year-old boy riding an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup truck on Queens Boulevard near 42nd Street in Queens. According to the police report, 'A 15-year-old boy on an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup. He flew, hit the pavement hard. Blood from his head pooled on the asphalt. The truck kept going, straight into the sun.' The boy was ejected from his bike, suffering severe head lacerations but remained conscious. The police report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as a contributing factor. The pickup truck did not stop after the crash. No helmet use or signaling is mentioned as a factor in the report.
S 4647Gianaris 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 775Gianaris 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
Gianaris Backs Misguided Residential Parking Permit Proposal▸Albany’s push for residential parking permits risks locking in car dominance. Critics say low fees fuel car ownership, crowding out transit, bikes, and green space. Experts warn it’s a subsidy for drivers, not a fix for congestion or emissions.
On March 16, 2023, a Senate proposal surfaced to create a Residential Parking Permit system in New York City. The plan, now under City Council review, would charge drivers up to $30 per month for curbside parking, with revenue aimed at funding the MTA. The proposal leaves key details—like reserving 20% of spaces for non-residents—to the Council. The bill’s summary claims it will reduce emissions and support transit. Senator Michael Gianaris supports the measure, but critics are blunt. Bike New York’s Jon Orcutt calls it a 'big nothingburger.' Donald Shoup says the $30 fee is a subsidy for cars. Elizabeth Adams of Transportation Alternatives argues, 'public space should be used for transit, bike lanes, and green space, not car storage.' Studies show similar programs in other cities have failed to cut congestion or emissions, and may even increase car ownership. The Department of Transportation has testified against the plan, warning it entrenches private car storage at the expense of vulnerable road users.
-
Albany’s Residential Parking Program Won’t Be Good for New York City: Analysis,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-16
Gianaris Supports Traffic Light After Queens Child Death▸A girl died at a Queens intersection. Her brother started a petition. Over 26,000 signed. Neighbors and State Sen. Michael Gianaris demand a traffic light. DOT hesitates. Drivers keep ignoring stop signs. The crosswalk remains deadly. The city stalls. Families mourn.
On March 5, 2023, State Senator Michael Gianaris responded to the death of Dolma Naadhum, a 7-year-old killed at a Newtown Road intersection in Astoria, Queens. The incident sparked a petition—over 26,000 signatures—calling for traffic lights to replace stop signs at three crossings. Gianaris pledged to 'make sure we fix Newtown Road where this happened, and to honor her father's request that there be traffic lights there.' The Department of Transportation upgraded crosswalk markings but has not committed to a traffic light, citing a low crash history. Residents and the victim’s family say the intersection remains dangerous, with drivers ignoring stop signs. Gianaris’s support highlights official recognition of the need for stronger protections for pedestrians, especially children, at this site.
-
11-year-old brother of NYC girl killed at intersection calls for new traffic light,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-05
S 4647Gianaris 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 2023-02-28
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
Pedestrian Struck Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 25-year-old woman crossing Queens Boulevard with the signal was hit by a speeding vehicle. The driver was inattentive and distracted. The pedestrian suffered back injuries and shock. The crash happened late at night in Queens.
According to the police report, a 25-year-old female pedestrian was crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection with the signal when she was struck by a vehicle traveling north. The pedestrian sustained back injuries and was in shock, complaining of pain and nausea. The report lists the driver's unsafe speed and inattention or distraction as contributing factors. The vehicle impacted the pedestrian at the center front end. No other vehicle details or driver information were provided. The pedestrian was not blamed for the crash.
Gianaris Criticizes Lieber for Harmful MTA Fare Hikes▸MTA Chair Janno Lieber told lawmakers the agency needs $350 million yearly to avoid fare hikes. Legislators pushed back. They called for taxing the wealthy, not straphangers. The fight centers on who pays for transit. Riders wait. The stakes are high.
On February 6, 2023, during a legislative hearing on MTA funding and fare policy, MTA Chair Janno Lieber testified that the agency needs $350 million more each year to prevent subway and bus fare hikes. The hearing, part of the state budget process, saw Lieber defend Governor Hochul’s proposed 5.5-percent fare increase as a return to regular hikes paused during the pandemic. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and colleagues pushed the 'Fix the MTA' package to freeze fares, boost service, and make buses free. Mamdani argued, 'It is simply not acceptable to put the cost of a basic public good on the backs of working class New Yorkers.' Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris criticized Lieber for insisting on fare hikes while dismissing other budget solutions. Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas opposed making her constituents pay more. Lieber expressed concern about free buses, preferring targeted affordability programs. The hearing highlighted a sharp divide: lawmakers want to protect riders; the MTA wants stable funding. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
MTA Could Nix Fare Hikes with Just $350M More Per Year, Lieber Says,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-02-06
A sedan and a bike collided on 33 Street near 47 Avenue in Queens. The 16-year-old bicyclist suffered abdominal and pelvic injuries with minor bleeding. The driver’s inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety equipment.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling south and a bike traveling east collided head-on on 33 Street near 47 Avenue in Queens. The bicyclist, a 16-year-old male, sustained injuries to his abdomen and pelvis and was treated for minor bleeding. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors to the crash. The sedan’s front end was damaged, while the bike showed no damage. The bicyclist was not ejected and was in shock at the scene. No safety equipment was reported on the cyclist. The driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of impact.
3SUVs Collide on Vandam Street, Three Passengers Hurt▸Two SUVs crashed head-on on Vandam Street in Queens. Three passengers, ages 2, 9, and 30, suffered whiplash. Police cite driver inattention and distraction. Impact struck left front bumpers. No ejections.
According to the police report, two sport utility vehicles collided head-on on Vandam Street in Queens. Three passengers were injured: a 2-year-old girl in a child restraint, a 9-year-old boy with a lap belt and harness, and a 30-year-old woman with a lap belt. All suffered whiplash and were conscious at the scene. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors, along with reaction to an uninvolved vehicle. The point of impact was the left front bumper on both vehicles. No passengers were ejected. Vehicle damage included the left front and left rear quarter panels.
Michael Gianaris Supports Traffic Signal Installation Despite Limited Safety Impact▸A driver killed a 7-year-old girl at 45th Street and Newtown Road. The city will install a traffic signal. Local leaders and family demanded action. DOT promises more safety. Residents call for broader change. One light will not fix the corridor.
On April 1, 2023, NYC DOT announced a new traffic signal for 45th Street and Newtown Road in Queens. This follows the February death of Dolma Naadhun, age 7, struck by a driver with a learner’s permit. The matter, titled 'NYC to install a traffic signal at the site of Queens crash that killed 7-year-old,' drew support from State Sen. Michael Gianaris, who said, 'I am glad the city is installing a traffic signal at the site of Naadhun's tragic death, in accordance with her family’s wishes.' Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez stated, 'No loss of life on our streets is acceptable.' The DOT has already added curb extensions and new crosswalks. Community members, including Alex Duncan, argue that one signal is not enough and demand systemic safety changes along the corridor. The signal is set for installation in May.
-
NYC to install a traffic signal at the site of Queens crash that killed 7-year-old,
gothamist.com,
Published 2023-04-01
Michael Gianaris Backs Safety Boosting Traffic Light Installation▸A new traffic light will rise at a deadly Queens corner. A girl died here. Her brother begged for change. The city listened. Officials promise more: stop signs, curb extensions, clearer crosswalks. The driver who killed her ran a stop sign. He was unlicensed.
On March 30, 2023, the NYC Department of Transportation announced new safety measures at a Queens intersection where 7-year-old Dolma Naadhum was killed by an SUV. The agency will install a traffic light by May, following a petition from Dolma’s brother and pressure from local leaders. State Senator Michael Gianaris, representing District 12, pledged to honor the family's request, stating, 'We fix Newtown Road where this happened.' The DOT will also add all-way stop signs at a nearby crossing and has already improved crosswalks, extended curbs, and restricted parking for better visibility. The driver in the fatal crash ran a stop sign and lacked a proper license. The city’s action comes after years of complaints about dangerous driving at this intersection.
-
NYC to install traffic light at corner where girl died after brother’s plea,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-30
Teen E-Biker Thrown After Striking Pickup▸A 15-year-old on an e-bike hit the back of a Ford pickup on Queens Boulevard. He flew off, landed hard. Blood pooled from his head. The truck kept moving. The boy was left injured, conscious, on the street.
A 15-year-old boy riding an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup truck on Queens Boulevard near 42nd Street in Queens. According to the police report, 'A 15-year-old boy on an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup. He flew, hit the pavement hard. Blood from his head pooled on the asphalt. The truck kept going, straight into the sun.' The boy was ejected from his bike, suffering severe head lacerations but remained conscious. The police report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as a contributing factor. The pickup truck did not stop after the crash. No helmet use or signaling is mentioned as a factor in the report.
S 4647Gianaris 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 775Gianaris 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
Gianaris Backs Misguided Residential Parking Permit Proposal▸Albany’s push for residential parking permits risks locking in car dominance. Critics say low fees fuel car ownership, crowding out transit, bikes, and green space. Experts warn it’s a subsidy for drivers, not a fix for congestion or emissions.
On March 16, 2023, a Senate proposal surfaced to create a Residential Parking Permit system in New York City. The plan, now under City Council review, would charge drivers up to $30 per month for curbside parking, with revenue aimed at funding the MTA. The proposal leaves key details—like reserving 20% of spaces for non-residents—to the Council. The bill’s summary claims it will reduce emissions and support transit. Senator Michael Gianaris supports the measure, but critics are blunt. Bike New York’s Jon Orcutt calls it a 'big nothingburger.' Donald Shoup says the $30 fee is a subsidy for cars. Elizabeth Adams of Transportation Alternatives argues, 'public space should be used for transit, bike lanes, and green space, not car storage.' Studies show similar programs in other cities have failed to cut congestion or emissions, and may even increase car ownership. The Department of Transportation has testified against the plan, warning it entrenches private car storage at the expense of vulnerable road users.
-
Albany’s Residential Parking Program Won’t Be Good for New York City: Analysis,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-16
Gianaris Supports Traffic Light After Queens Child Death▸A girl died at a Queens intersection. Her brother started a petition. Over 26,000 signed. Neighbors and State Sen. Michael Gianaris demand a traffic light. DOT hesitates. Drivers keep ignoring stop signs. The crosswalk remains deadly. The city stalls. Families mourn.
On March 5, 2023, State Senator Michael Gianaris responded to the death of Dolma Naadhum, a 7-year-old killed at a Newtown Road intersection in Astoria, Queens. The incident sparked a petition—over 26,000 signatures—calling for traffic lights to replace stop signs at three crossings. Gianaris pledged to 'make sure we fix Newtown Road where this happened, and to honor her father's request that there be traffic lights there.' The Department of Transportation upgraded crosswalk markings but has not committed to a traffic light, citing a low crash history. Residents and the victim’s family say the intersection remains dangerous, with drivers ignoring stop signs. Gianaris’s support highlights official recognition of the need for stronger protections for pedestrians, especially children, at this site.
-
11-year-old brother of NYC girl killed at intersection calls for new traffic light,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-05
S 4647Gianaris 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 2023-02-28
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
Pedestrian Struck Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 25-year-old woman crossing Queens Boulevard with the signal was hit by a speeding vehicle. The driver was inattentive and distracted. The pedestrian suffered back injuries and shock. The crash happened late at night in Queens.
According to the police report, a 25-year-old female pedestrian was crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection with the signal when she was struck by a vehicle traveling north. The pedestrian sustained back injuries and was in shock, complaining of pain and nausea. The report lists the driver's unsafe speed and inattention or distraction as contributing factors. The vehicle impacted the pedestrian at the center front end. No other vehicle details or driver information were provided. The pedestrian was not blamed for the crash.
Gianaris Criticizes Lieber for Harmful MTA Fare Hikes▸MTA Chair Janno Lieber told lawmakers the agency needs $350 million yearly to avoid fare hikes. Legislators pushed back. They called for taxing the wealthy, not straphangers. The fight centers on who pays for transit. Riders wait. The stakes are high.
On February 6, 2023, during a legislative hearing on MTA funding and fare policy, MTA Chair Janno Lieber testified that the agency needs $350 million more each year to prevent subway and bus fare hikes. The hearing, part of the state budget process, saw Lieber defend Governor Hochul’s proposed 5.5-percent fare increase as a return to regular hikes paused during the pandemic. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and colleagues pushed the 'Fix the MTA' package to freeze fares, boost service, and make buses free. Mamdani argued, 'It is simply not acceptable to put the cost of a basic public good on the backs of working class New Yorkers.' Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris criticized Lieber for insisting on fare hikes while dismissing other budget solutions. Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas opposed making her constituents pay more. Lieber expressed concern about free buses, preferring targeted affordability programs. The hearing highlighted a sharp divide: lawmakers want to protect riders; the MTA wants stable funding. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
MTA Could Nix Fare Hikes with Just $350M More Per Year, Lieber Says,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-02-06
Two SUVs crashed head-on on Vandam Street in Queens. Three passengers, ages 2, 9, and 30, suffered whiplash. Police cite driver inattention and distraction. Impact struck left front bumpers. No ejections.
According to the police report, two sport utility vehicles collided head-on on Vandam Street in Queens. Three passengers were injured: a 2-year-old girl in a child restraint, a 9-year-old boy with a lap belt and harness, and a 30-year-old woman with a lap belt. All suffered whiplash and were conscious at the scene. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors, along with reaction to an uninvolved vehicle. The point of impact was the left front bumper on both vehicles. No passengers were ejected. Vehicle damage included the left front and left rear quarter panels.
Michael Gianaris Supports Traffic Signal Installation Despite Limited Safety Impact▸A driver killed a 7-year-old girl at 45th Street and Newtown Road. The city will install a traffic signal. Local leaders and family demanded action. DOT promises more safety. Residents call for broader change. One light will not fix the corridor.
On April 1, 2023, NYC DOT announced a new traffic signal for 45th Street and Newtown Road in Queens. This follows the February death of Dolma Naadhun, age 7, struck by a driver with a learner’s permit. The matter, titled 'NYC to install a traffic signal at the site of Queens crash that killed 7-year-old,' drew support from State Sen. Michael Gianaris, who said, 'I am glad the city is installing a traffic signal at the site of Naadhun's tragic death, in accordance with her family’s wishes.' Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez stated, 'No loss of life on our streets is acceptable.' The DOT has already added curb extensions and new crosswalks. Community members, including Alex Duncan, argue that one signal is not enough and demand systemic safety changes along the corridor. The signal is set for installation in May.
-
NYC to install a traffic signal at the site of Queens crash that killed 7-year-old,
gothamist.com,
Published 2023-04-01
Michael Gianaris Backs Safety Boosting Traffic Light Installation▸A new traffic light will rise at a deadly Queens corner. A girl died here. Her brother begged for change. The city listened. Officials promise more: stop signs, curb extensions, clearer crosswalks. The driver who killed her ran a stop sign. He was unlicensed.
On March 30, 2023, the NYC Department of Transportation announced new safety measures at a Queens intersection where 7-year-old Dolma Naadhum was killed by an SUV. The agency will install a traffic light by May, following a petition from Dolma’s brother and pressure from local leaders. State Senator Michael Gianaris, representing District 12, pledged to honor the family's request, stating, 'We fix Newtown Road where this happened.' The DOT will also add all-way stop signs at a nearby crossing and has already improved crosswalks, extended curbs, and restricted parking for better visibility. The driver in the fatal crash ran a stop sign and lacked a proper license. The city’s action comes after years of complaints about dangerous driving at this intersection.
-
NYC to install traffic light at corner where girl died after brother’s plea,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-30
Teen E-Biker Thrown After Striking Pickup▸A 15-year-old on an e-bike hit the back of a Ford pickup on Queens Boulevard. He flew off, landed hard. Blood pooled from his head. The truck kept moving. The boy was left injured, conscious, on the street.
A 15-year-old boy riding an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup truck on Queens Boulevard near 42nd Street in Queens. According to the police report, 'A 15-year-old boy on an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup. He flew, hit the pavement hard. Blood from his head pooled on the asphalt. The truck kept going, straight into the sun.' The boy was ejected from his bike, suffering severe head lacerations but remained conscious. The police report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as a contributing factor. The pickup truck did not stop after the crash. No helmet use or signaling is mentioned as a factor in the report.
S 4647Gianaris 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 775Gianaris 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
Gianaris Backs Misguided Residential Parking Permit Proposal▸Albany’s push for residential parking permits risks locking in car dominance. Critics say low fees fuel car ownership, crowding out transit, bikes, and green space. Experts warn it’s a subsidy for drivers, not a fix for congestion or emissions.
On March 16, 2023, a Senate proposal surfaced to create a Residential Parking Permit system in New York City. The plan, now under City Council review, would charge drivers up to $30 per month for curbside parking, with revenue aimed at funding the MTA. The proposal leaves key details—like reserving 20% of spaces for non-residents—to the Council. The bill’s summary claims it will reduce emissions and support transit. Senator Michael Gianaris supports the measure, but critics are blunt. Bike New York’s Jon Orcutt calls it a 'big nothingburger.' Donald Shoup says the $30 fee is a subsidy for cars. Elizabeth Adams of Transportation Alternatives argues, 'public space should be used for transit, bike lanes, and green space, not car storage.' Studies show similar programs in other cities have failed to cut congestion or emissions, and may even increase car ownership. The Department of Transportation has testified against the plan, warning it entrenches private car storage at the expense of vulnerable road users.
-
Albany’s Residential Parking Program Won’t Be Good for New York City: Analysis,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-16
Gianaris Supports Traffic Light After Queens Child Death▸A girl died at a Queens intersection. Her brother started a petition. Over 26,000 signed. Neighbors and State Sen. Michael Gianaris demand a traffic light. DOT hesitates. Drivers keep ignoring stop signs. The crosswalk remains deadly. The city stalls. Families mourn.
On March 5, 2023, State Senator Michael Gianaris responded to the death of Dolma Naadhum, a 7-year-old killed at a Newtown Road intersection in Astoria, Queens. The incident sparked a petition—over 26,000 signatures—calling for traffic lights to replace stop signs at three crossings. Gianaris pledged to 'make sure we fix Newtown Road where this happened, and to honor her father's request that there be traffic lights there.' The Department of Transportation upgraded crosswalk markings but has not committed to a traffic light, citing a low crash history. Residents and the victim’s family say the intersection remains dangerous, with drivers ignoring stop signs. Gianaris’s support highlights official recognition of the need for stronger protections for pedestrians, especially children, at this site.
-
11-year-old brother of NYC girl killed at intersection calls for new traffic light,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-05
S 4647Gianaris 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 2023-02-28
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
Pedestrian Struck Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 25-year-old woman crossing Queens Boulevard with the signal was hit by a speeding vehicle. The driver was inattentive and distracted. The pedestrian suffered back injuries and shock. The crash happened late at night in Queens.
According to the police report, a 25-year-old female pedestrian was crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection with the signal when she was struck by a vehicle traveling north. The pedestrian sustained back injuries and was in shock, complaining of pain and nausea. The report lists the driver's unsafe speed and inattention or distraction as contributing factors. The vehicle impacted the pedestrian at the center front end. No other vehicle details or driver information were provided. The pedestrian was not blamed for the crash.
Gianaris Criticizes Lieber for Harmful MTA Fare Hikes▸MTA Chair Janno Lieber told lawmakers the agency needs $350 million yearly to avoid fare hikes. Legislators pushed back. They called for taxing the wealthy, not straphangers. The fight centers on who pays for transit. Riders wait. The stakes are high.
On February 6, 2023, during a legislative hearing on MTA funding and fare policy, MTA Chair Janno Lieber testified that the agency needs $350 million more each year to prevent subway and bus fare hikes. The hearing, part of the state budget process, saw Lieber defend Governor Hochul’s proposed 5.5-percent fare increase as a return to regular hikes paused during the pandemic. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and colleagues pushed the 'Fix the MTA' package to freeze fares, boost service, and make buses free. Mamdani argued, 'It is simply not acceptable to put the cost of a basic public good on the backs of working class New Yorkers.' Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris criticized Lieber for insisting on fare hikes while dismissing other budget solutions. Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas opposed making her constituents pay more. Lieber expressed concern about free buses, preferring targeted affordability programs. The hearing highlighted a sharp divide: lawmakers want to protect riders; the MTA wants stable funding. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
MTA Could Nix Fare Hikes with Just $350M More Per Year, Lieber Says,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-02-06
A driver killed a 7-year-old girl at 45th Street and Newtown Road. The city will install a traffic signal. Local leaders and family demanded action. DOT promises more safety. Residents call for broader change. One light will not fix the corridor.
On April 1, 2023, NYC DOT announced a new traffic signal for 45th Street and Newtown Road in Queens. This follows the February death of Dolma Naadhun, age 7, struck by a driver with a learner’s permit. The matter, titled 'NYC to install a traffic signal at the site of Queens crash that killed 7-year-old,' drew support from State Sen. Michael Gianaris, who said, 'I am glad the city is installing a traffic signal at the site of Naadhun's tragic death, in accordance with her family’s wishes.' Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez stated, 'No loss of life on our streets is acceptable.' The DOT has already added curb extensions and new crosswalks. Community members, including Alex Duncan, argue that one signal is not enough and demand systemic safety changes along the corridor. The signal is set for installation in May.
- NYC to install a traffic signal at the site of Queens crash that killed 7-year-old, gothamist.com, Published 2023-04-01
Michael Gianaris Backs Safety Boosting Traffic Light Installation▸A new traffic light will rise at a deadly Queens corner. A girl died here. Her brother begged for change. The city listened. Officials promise more: stop signs, curb extensions, clearer crosswalks. The driver who killed her ran a stop sign. He was unlicensed.
On March 30, 2023, the NYC Department of Transportation announced new safety measures at a Queens intersection where 7-year-old Dolma Naadhum was killed by an SUV. The agency will install a traffic light by May, following a petition from Dolma’s brother and pressure from local leaders. State Senator Michael Gianaris, representing District 12, pledged to honor the family's request, stating, 'We fix Newtown Road where this happened.' The DOT will also add all-way stop signs at a nearby crossing and has already improved crosswalks, extended curbs, and restricted parking for better visibility. The driver in the fatal crash ran a stop sign and lacked a proper license. The city’s action comes after years of complaints about dangerous driving at this intersection.
-
NYC to install traffic light at corner where girl died after brother’s plea,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-30
Teen E-Biker Thrown After Striking Pickup▸A 15-year-old on an e-bike hit the back of a Ford pickup on Queens Boulevard. He flew off, landed hard. Blood pooled from his head. The truck kept moving. The boy was left injured, conscious, on the street.
A 15-year-old boy riding an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup truck on Queens Boulevard near 42nd Street in Queens. According to the police report, 'A 15-year-old boy on an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup. He flew, hit the pavement hard. Blood from his head pooled on the asphalt. The truck kept going, straight into the sun.' The boy was ejected from his bike, suffering severe head lacerations but remained conscious. The police report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as a contributing factor. The pickup truck did not stop after the crash. No helmet use or signaling is mentioned as a factor in the report.
S 4647Gianaris 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 775Gianaris 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
Gianaris Backs Misguided Residential Parking Permit Proposal▸Albany’s push for residential parking permits risks locking in car dominance. Critics say low fees fuel car ownership, crowding out transit, bikes, and green space. Experts warn it’s a subsidy for drivers, not a fix for congestion or emissions.
On March 16, 2023, a Senate proposal surfaced to create a Residential Parking Permit system in New York City. The plan, now under City Council review, would charge drivers up to $30 per month for curbside parking, with revenue aimed at funding the MTA. The proposal leaves key details—like reserving 20% of spaces for non-residents—to the Council. The bill’s summary claims it will reduce emissions and support transit. Senator Michael Gianaris supports the measure, but critics are blunt. Bike New York’s Jon Orcutt calls it a 'big nothingburger.' Donald Shoup says the $30 fee is a subsidy for cars. Elizabeth Adams of Transportation Alternatives argues, 'public space should be used for transit, bike lanes, and green space, not car storage.' Studies show similar programs in other cities have failed to cut congestion or emissions, and may even increase car ownership. The Department of Transportation has testified against the plan, warning it entrenches private car storage at the expense of vulnerable road users.
-
Albany’s Residential Parking Program Won’t Be Good for New York City: Analysis,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-16
Gianaris Supports Traffic Light After Queens Child Death▸A girl died at a Queens intersection. Her brother started a petition. Over 26,000 signed. Neighbors and State Sen. Michael Gianaris demand a traffic light. DOT hesitates. Drivers keep ignoring stop signs. The crosswalk remains deadly. The city stalls. Families mourn.
On March 5, 2023, State Senator Michael Gianaris responded to the death of Dolma Naadhum, a 7-year-old killed at a Newtown Road intersection in Astoria, Queens. The incident sparked a petition—over 26,000 signatures—calling for traffic lights to replace stop signs at three crossings. Gianaris pledged to 'make sure we fix Newtown Road where this happened, and to honor her father's request that there be traffic lights there.' The Department of Transportation upgraded crosswalk markings but has not committed to a traffic light, citing a low crash history. Residents and the victim’s family say the intersection remains dangerous, with drivers ignoring stop signs. Gianaris’s support highlights official recognition of the need for stronger protections for pedestrians, especially children, at this site.
-
11-year-old brother of NYC girl killed at intersection calls for new traffic light,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-05
S 4647Gianaris 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 2023-02-28
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
Pedestrian Struck Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 25-year-old woman crossing Queens Boulevard with the signal was hit by a speeding vehicle. The driver was inattentive and distracted. The pedestrian suffered back injuries and shock. The crash happened late at night in Queens.
According to the police report, a 25-year-old female pedestrian was crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection with the signal when she was struck by a vehicle traveling north. The pedestrian sustained back injuries and was in shock, complaining of pain and nausea. The report lists the driver's unsafe speed and inattention or distraction as contributing factors. The vehicle impacted the pedestrian at the center front end. No other vehicle details or driver information were provided. The pedestrian was not blamed for the crash.
Gianaris Criticizes Lieber for Harmful MTA Fare Hikes▸MTA Chair Janno Lieber told lawmakers the agency needs $350 million yearly to avoid fare hikes. Legislators pushed back. They called for taxing the wealthy, not straphangers. The fight centers on who pays for transit. Riders wait. The stakes are high.
On February 6, 2023, during a legislative hearing on MTA funding and fare policy, MTA Chair Janno Lieber testified that the agency needs $350 million more each year to prevent subway and bus fare hikes. The hearing, part of the state budget process, saw Lieber defend Governor Hochul’s proposed 5.5-percent fare increase as a return to regular hikes paused during the pandemic. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and colleagues pushed the 'Fix the MTA' package to freeze fares, boost service, and make buses free. Mamdani argued, 'It is simply not acceptable to put the cost of a basic public good on the backs of working class New Yorkers.' Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris criticized Lieber for insisting on fare hikes while dismissing other budget solutions. Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas opposed making her constituents pay more. Lieber expressed concern about free buses, preferring targeted affordability programs. The hearing highlighted a sharp divide: lawmakers want to protect riders; the MTA wants stable funding. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
MTA Could Nix Fare Hikes with Just $350M More Per Year, Lieber Says,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-02-06
A new traffic light will rise at a deadly Queens corner. A girl died here. Her brother begged for change. The city listened. Officials promise more: stop signs, curb extensions, clearer crosswalks. The driver who killed her ran a stop sign. He was unlicensed.
On March 30, 2023, the NYC Department of Transportation announced new safety measures at a Queens intersection where 7-year-old Dolma Naadhum was killed by an SUV. The agency will install a traffic light by May, following a petition from Dolma’s brother and pressure from local leaders. State Senator Michael Gianaris, representing District 12, pledged to honor the family's request, stating, 'We fix Newtown Road where this happened.' The DOT will also add all-way stop signs at a nearby crossing and has already improved crosswalks, extended curbs, and restricted parking for better visibility. The driver in the fatal crash ran a stop sign and lacked a proper license. The city’s action comes after years of complaints about dangerous driving at this intersection.
- NYC to install traffic light at corner where girl died after brother’s plea, nypost.com, Published 2023-03-30
Teen E-Biker Thrown After Striking Pickup▸A 15-year-old on an e-bike hit the back of a Ford pickup on Queens Boulevard. He flew off, landed hard. Blood pooled from his head. The truck kept moving. The boy was left injured, conscious, on the street.
A 15-year-old boy riding an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup truck on Queens Boulevard near 42nd Street in Queens. According to the police report, 'A 15-year-old boy on an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup. He flew, hit the pavement hard. Blood from his head pooled on the asphalt. The truck kept going, straight into the sun.' The boy was ejected from his bike, suffering severe head lacerations but remained conscious. The police report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as a contributing factor. The pickup truck did not stop after the crash. No helmet use or signaling is mentioned as a factor in the report.
S 4647Gianaris 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 775Gianaris 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
Gianaris Backs Misguided Residential Parking Permit Proposal▸Albany’s push for residential parking permits risks locking in car dominance. Critics say low fees fuel car ownership, crowding out transit, bikes, and green space. Experts warn it’s a subsidy for drivers, not a fix for congestion or emissions.
On March 16, 2023, a Senate proposal surfaced to create a Residential Parking Permit system in New York City. The plan, now under City Council review, would charge drivers up to $30 per month for curbside parking, with revenue aimed at funding the MTA. The proposal leaves key details—like reserving 20% of spaces for non-residents—to the Council. The bill’s summary claims it will reduce emissions and support transit. Senator Michael Gianaris supports the measure, but critics are blunt. Bike New York’s Jon Orcutt calls it a 'big nothingburger.' Donald Shoup says the $30 fee is a subsidy for cars. Elizabeth Adams of Transportation Alternatives argues, 'public space should be used for transit, bike lanes, and green space, not car storage.' Studies show similar programs in other cities have failed to cut congestion or emissions, and may even increase car ownership. The Department of Transportation has testified against the plan, warning it entrenches private car storage at the expense of vulnerable road users.
-
Albany’s Residential Parking Program Won’t Be Good for New York City: Analysis,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-16
Gianaris Supports Traffic Light After Queens Child Death▸A girl died at a Queens intersection. Her brother started a petition. Over 26,000 signed. Neighbors and State Sen. Michael Gianaris demand a traffic light. DOT hesitates. Drivers keep ignoring stop signs. The crosswalk remains deadly. The city stalls. Families mourn.
On March 5, 2023, State Senator Michael Gianaris responded to the death of Dolma Naadhum, a 7-year-old killed at a Newtown Road intersection in Astoria, Queens. The incident sparked a petition—over 26,000 signatures—calling for traffic lights to replace stop signs at three crossings. Gianaris pledged to 'make sure we fix Newtown Road where this happened, and to honor her father's request that there be traffic lights there.' The Department of Transportation upgraded crosswalk markings but has not committed to a traffic light, citing a low crash history. Residents and the victim’s family say the intersection remains dangerous, with drivers ignoring stop signs. Gianaris’s support highlights official recognition of the need for stronger protections for pedestrians, especially children, at this site.
-
11-year-old brother of NYC girl killed at intersection calls for new traffic light,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-05
S 4647Gianaris 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 2023-02-28
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
Pedestrian Struck Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 25-year-old woman crossing Queens Boulevard with the signal was hit by a speeding vehicle. The driver was inattentive and distracted. The pedestrian suffered back injuries and shock. The crash happened late at night in Queens.
According to the police report, a 25-year-old female pedestrian was crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection with the signal when she was struck by a vehicle traveling north. The pedestrian sustained back injuries and was in shock, complaining of pain and nausea. The report lists the driver's unsafe speed and inattention or distraction as contributing factors. The vehicle impacted the pedestrian at the center front end. No other vehicle details or driver information were provided. The pedestrian was not blamed for the crash.
Gianaris Criticizes Lieber for Harmful MTA Fare Hikes▸MTA Chair Janno Lieber told lawmakers the agency needs $350 million yearly to avoid fare hikes. Legislators pushed back. They called for taxing the wealthy, not straphangers. The fight centers on who pays for transit. Riders wait. The stakes are high.
On February 6, 2023, during a legislative hearing on MTA funding and fare policy, MTA Chair Janno Lieber testified that the agency needs $350 million more each year to prevent subway and bus fare hikes. The hearing, part of the state budget process, saw Lieber defend Governor Hochul’s proposed 5.5-percent fare increase as a return to regular hikes paused during the pandemic. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and colleagues pushed the 'Fix the MTA' package to freeze fares, boost service, and make buses free. Mamdani argued, 'It is simply not acceptable to put the cost of a basic public good on the backs of working class New Yorkers.' Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris criticized Lieber for insisting on fare hikes while dismissing other budget solutions. Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas opposed making her constituents pay more. Lieber expressed concern about free buses, preferring targeted affordability programs. The hearing highlighted a sharp divide: lawmakers want to protect riders; the MTA wants stable funding. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
MTA Could Nix Fare Hikes with Just $350M More Per Year, Lieber Says,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-02-06
A 15-year-old on an e-bike hit the back of a Ford pickup on Queens Boulevard. He flew off, landed hard. Blood pooled from his head. The truck kept moving. The boy was left injured, conscious, on the street.
A 15-year-old boy riding an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup truck on Queens Boulevard near 42nd Street in Queens. According to the police report, 'A 15-year-old boy on an e-bike struck the rear of a Ford pickup. He flew, hit the pavement hard. Blood from his head pooled on the asphalt. The truck kept going, straight into the sun.' The boy was ejected from his bike, suffering severe head lacerations but remained conscious. The police report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as a contributing factor. The pickup truck did not stop after the crash. No helmet use or signaling is mentioned as a factor in the report.
S 4647Gianaris 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 775Gianaris 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
Gianaris Backs Misguided Residential Parking Permit Proposal▸Albany’s push for residential parking permits risks locking in car dominance. Critics say low fees fuel car ownership, crowding out transit, bikes, and green space. Experts warn it’s a subsidy for drivers, not a fix for congestion or emissions.
On March 16, 2023, a Senate proposal surfaced to create a Residential Parking Permit system in New York City. The plan, now under City Council review, would charge drivers up to $30 per month for curbside parking, with revenue aimed at funding the MTA. The proposal leaves key details—like reserving 20% of spaces for non-residents—to the Council. The bill’s summary claims it will reduce emissions and support transit. Senator Michael Gianaris supports the measure, but critics are blunt. Bike New York’s Jon Orcutt calls it a 'big nothingburger.' Donald Shoup says the $30 fee is a subsidy for cars. Elizabeth Adams of Transportation Alternatives argues, 'public space should be used for transit, bike lanes, and green space, not car storage.' Studies show similar programs in other cities have failed to cut congestion or emissions, and may even increase car ownership. The Department of Transportation has testified against the plan, warning it entrenches private car storage at the expense of vulnerable road users.
-
Albany’s Residential Parking Program Won’t Be Good for New York City: Analysis,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-16
Gianaris Supports Traffic Light After Queens Child Death▸A girl died at a Queens intersection. Her brother started a petition. Over 26,000 signed. Neighbors and State Sen. Michael Gianaris demand a traffic light. DOT hesitates. Drivers keep ignoring stop signs. The crosswalk remains deadly. The city stalls. Families mourn.
On March 5, 2023, State Senator Michael Gianaris responded to the death of Dolma Naadhum, a 7-year-old killed at a Newtown Road intersection in Astoria, Queens. The incident sparked a petition—over 26,000 signatures—calling for traffic lights to replace stop signs at three crossings. Gianaris pledged to 'make sure we fix Newtown Road where this happened, and to honor her father's request that there be traffic lights there.' The Department of Transportation upgraded crosswalk markings but has not committed to a traffic light, citing a low crash history. Residents and the victim’s family say the intersection remains dangerous, with drivers ignoring stop signs. Gianaris’s support highlights official recognition of the need for stronger protections for pedestrians, especially children, at this site.
-
11-year-old brother of NYC girl killed at intersection calls for new traffic light,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-05
S 4647Gianaris 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 2023-02-28
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
Pedestrian Struck Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 25-year-old woman crossing Queens Boulevard with the signal was hit by a speeding vehicle. The driver was inattentive and distracted. The pedestrian suffered back injuries and shock. The crash happened late at night in Queens.
According to the police report, a 25-year-old female pedestrian was crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection with the signal when she was struck by a vehicle traveling north. The pedestrian sustained back injuries and was in shock, complaining of pain and nausea. The report lists the driver's unsafe speed and inattention or distraction as contributing factors. The vehicle impacted the pedestrian at the center front end. No other vehicle details or driver information were provided. The pedestrian was not blamed for the crash.
Gianaris Criticizes Lieber for Harmful MTA Fare Hikes▸MTA Chair Janno Lieber told lawmakers the agency needs $350 million yearly to avoid fare hikes. Legislators pushed back. They called for taxing the wealthy, not straphangers. The fight centers on who pays for transit. Riders wait. The stakes are high.
On February 6, 2023, during a legislative hearing on MTA funding and fare policy, MTA Chair Janno Lieber testified that the agency needs $350 million more each year to prevent subway and bus fare hikes. The hearing, part of the state budget process, saw Lieber defend Governor Hochul’s proposed 5.5-percent fare increase as a return to regular hikes paused during the pandemic. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and colleagues pushed the 'Fix the MTA' package to freeze fares, boost service, and make buses free. Mamdani argued, 'It is simply not acceptable to put the cost of a basic public good on the backs of working class New Yorkers.' Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris criticized Lieber for insisting on fare hikes while dismissing other budget solutions. Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas opposed making her constituents pay more. Lieber expressed concern about free buses, preferring targeted affordability programs. The hearing highlighted a sharp divide: lawmakers want to protect riders; the MTA wants stable funding. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
MTA Could Nix Fare Hikes with Just $350M More Per Year, Lieber Says,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-02-06
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 775Gianaris 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
Gianaris Backs Misguided Residential Parking Permit Proposal▸Albany’s push for residential parking permits risks locking in car dominance. Critics say low fees fuel car ownership, crowding out transit, bikes, and green space. Experts warn it’s a subsidy for drivers, not a fix for congestion or emissions.
On March 16, 2023, a Senate proposal surfaced to create a Residential Parking Permit system in New York City. The plan, now under City Council review, would charge drivers up to $30 per month for curbside parking, with revenue aimed at funding the MTA. The proposal leaves key details—like reserving 20% of spaces for non-residents—to the Council. The bill’s summary claims it will reduce emissions and support transit. Senator Michael Gianaris supports the measure, but critics are blunt. Bike New York’s Jon Orcutt calls it a 'big nothingburger.' Donald Shoup says the $30 fee is a subsidy for cars. Elizabeth Adams of Transportation Alternatives argues, 'public space should be used for transit, bike lanes, and green space, not car storage.' Studies show similar programs in other cities have failed to cut congestion or emissions, and may even increase car ownership. The Department of Transportation has testified against the plan, warning it entrenches private car storage at the expense of vulnerable road users.
-
Albany’s Residential Parking Program Won’t Be Good for New York City: Analysis,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-16
Gianaris Supports Traffic Light After Queens Child Death▸A girl died at a Queens intersection. Her brother started a petition. Over 26,000 signed. Neighbors and State Sen. Michael Gianaris demand a traffic light. DOT hesitates. Drivers keep ignoring stop signs. The crosswalk remains deadly. The city stalls. Families mourn.
On March 5, 2023, State Senator Michael Gianaris responded to the death of Dolma Naadhum, a 7-year-old killed at a Newtown Road intersection in Astoria, Queens. The incident sparked a petition—over 26,000 signatures—calling for traffic lights to replace stop signs at three crossings. Gianaris pledged to 'make sure we fix Newtown Road where this happened, and to honor her father's request that there be traffic lights there.' The Department of Transportation upgraded crosswalk markings but has not committed to a traffic light, citing a low crash history. Residents and the victim’s family say the intersection remains dangerous, with drivers ignoring stop signs. Gianaris’s support highlights official recognition of the need for stronger protections for pedestrians, especially children, at this site.
-
11-year-old brother of NYC girl killed at intersection calls for new traffic light,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-05
S 4647Gianaris 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 2023-02-28
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
Pedestrian Struck Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 25-year-old woman crossing Queens Boulevard with the signal was hit by a speeding vehicle. The driver was inattentive and distracted. The pedestrian suffered back injuries and shock. The crash happened late at night in Queens.
According to the police report, a 25-year-old female pedestrian was crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection with the signal when she was struck by a vehicle traveling north. The pedestrian sustained back injuries and was in shock, complaining of pain and nausea. The report lists the driver's unsafe speed and inattention or distraction as contributing factors. The vehicle impacted the pedestrian at the center front end. No other vehicle details or driver information were provided. The pedestrian was not blamed for the crash.
Gianaris Criticizes Lieber for Harmful MTA Fare Hikes▸MTA Chair Janno Lieber told lawmakers the agency needs $350 million yearly to avoid fare hikes. Legislators pushed back. They called for taxing the wealthy, not straphangers. The fight centers on who pays for transit. Riders wait. The stakes are high.
On February 6, 2023, during a legislative hearing on MTA funding and fare policy, MTA Chair Janno Lieber testified that the agency needs $350 million more each year to prevent subway and bus fare hikes. The hearing, part of the state budget process, saw Lieber defend Governor Hochul’s proposed 5.5-percent fare increase as a return to regular hikes paused during the pandemic. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and colleagues pushed the 'Fix the MTA' package to freeze fares, boost service, and make buses free. Mamdani argued, 'It is simply not acceptable to put the cost of a basic public good on the backs of working class New Yorkers.' Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris criticized Lieber for insisting on fare hikes while dismissing other budget solutions. Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas opposed making her constituents pay more. Lieber expressed concern about free buses, preferring targeted affordability programs. The hearing highlighted a sharp divide: lawmakers want to protect riders; the MTA wants stable funding. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
MTA Could Nix Fare Hikes with Just $350M More Per Year, Lieber Says,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-02-06
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
Gianaris Backs Misguided Residential Parking Permit Proposal▸Albany’s push for residential parking permits risks locking in car dominance. Critics say low fees fuel car ownership, crowding out transit, bikes, and green space. Experts warn it’s a subsidy for drivers, not a fix for congestion or emissions.
On March 16, 2023, a Senate proposal surfaced to create a Residential Parking Permit system in New York City. The plan, now under City Council review, would charge drivers up to $30 per month for curbside parking, with revenue aimed at funding the MTA. The proposal leaves key details—like reserving 20% of spaces for non-residents—to the Council. The bill’s summary claims it will reduce emissions and support transit. Senator Michael Gianaris supports the measure, but critics are blunt. Bike New York’s Jon Orcutt calls it a 'big nothingburger.' Donald Shoup says the $30 fee is a subsidy for cars. Elizabeth Adams of Transportation Alternatives argues, 'public space should be used for transit, bike lanes, and green space, not car storage.' Studies show similar programs in other cities have failed to cut congestion or emissions, and may even increase car ownership. The Department of Transportation has testified against the plan, warning it entrenches private car storage at the expense of vulnerable road users.
-
Albany’s Residential Parking Program Won’t Be Good for New York City: Analysis,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-03-16
Gianaris Supports Traffic Light After Queens Child Death▸A girl died at a Queens intersection. Her brother started a petition. Over 26,000 signed. Neighbors and State Sen. Michael Gianaris demand a traffic light. DOT hesitates. Drivers keep ignoring stop signs. The crosswalk remains deadly. The city stalls. Families mourn.
On March 5, 2023, State Senator Michael Gianaris responded to the death of Dolma Naadhum, a 7-year-old killed at a Newtown Road intersection in Astoria, Queens. The incident sparked a petition—over 26,000 signatures—calling for traffic lights to replace stop signs at three crossings. Gianaris pledged to 'make sure we fix Newtown Road where this happened, and to honor her father's request that there be traffic lights there.' The Department of Transportation upgraded crosswalk markings but has not committed to a traffic light, citing a low crash history. Residents and the victim’s family say the intersection remains dangerous, with drivers ignoring stop signs. Gianaris’s support highlights official recognition of the need for stronger protections for pedestrians, especially children, at this site.
-
11-year-old brother of NYC girl killed at intersection calls for new traffic light,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-05
S 4647Gianaris 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 2023-02-28
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
Pedestrian Struck Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 25-year-old woman crossing Queens Boulevard with the signal was hit by a speeding vehicle. The driver was inattentive and distracted. The pedestrian suffered back injuries and shock. The crash happened late at night in Queens.
According to the police report, a 25-year-old female pedestrian was crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection with the signal when she was struck by a vehicle traveling north. The pedestrian sustained back injuries and was in shock, complaining of pain and nausea. The report lists the driver's unsafe speed and inattention or distraction as contributing factors. The vehicle impacted the pedestrian at the center front end. No other vehicle details or driver information were provided. The pedestrian was not blamed for the crash.
Gianaris Criticizes Lieber for Harmful MTA Fare Hikes▸MTA Chair Janno Lieber told lawmakers the agency needs $350 million yearly to avoid fare hikes. Legislators pushed back. They called for taxing the wealthy, not straphangers. The fight centers on who pays for transit. Riders wait. The stakes are high.
On February 6, 2023, during a legislative hearing on MTA funding and fare policy, MTA Chair Janno Lieber testified that the agency needs $350 million more each year to prevent subway and bus fare hikes. The hearing, part of the state budget process, saw Lieber defend Governor Hochul’s proposed 5.5-percent fare increase as a return to regular hikes paused during the pandemic. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and colleagues pushed the 'Fix the MTA' package to freeze fares, boost service, and make buses free. Mamdani argued, 'It is simply not acceptable to put the cost of a basic public good on the backs of working class New Yorkers.' Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris criticized Lieber for insisting on fare hikes while dismissing other budget solutions. Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas opposed making her constituents pay more. Lieber expressed concern about free buses, preferring targeted affordability programs. The hearing highlighted a sharp divide: lawmakers want to protect riders; the MTA wants stable funding. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
MTA Could Nix Fare Hikes with Just $350M More Per Year, Lieber Says,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-02-06
Albany’s push for residential parking permits risks locking in car dominance. Critics say low fees fuel car ownership, crowding out transit, bikes, and green space. Experts warn it’s a subsidy for drivers, not a fix for congestion or emissions.
On March 16, 2023, a Senate proposal surfaced to create a Residential Parking Permit system in New York City. The plan, now under City Council review, would charge drivers up to $30 per month for curbside parking, with revenue aimed at funding the MTA. The proposal leaves key details—like reserving 20% of spaces for non-residents—to the Council. The bill’s summary claims it will reduce emissions and support transit. Senator Michael Gianaris supports the measure, but critics are blunt. Bike New York’s Jon Orcutt calls it a 'big nothingburger.' Donald Shoup says the $30 fee is a subsidy for cars. Elizabeth Adams of Transportation Alternatives argues, 'public space should be used for transit, bike lanes, and green space, not car storage.' Studies show similar programs in other cities have failed to cut congestion or emissions, and may even increase car ownership. The Department of Transportation has testified against the plan, warning it entrenches private car storage at the expense of vulnerable road users.
- Albany’s Residential Parking Program Won’t Be Good for New York City: Analysis, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2023-03-16
Gianaris Supports Traffic Light After Queens Child Death▸A girl died at a Queens intersection. Her brother started a petition. Over 26,000 signed. Neighbors and State Sen. Michael Gianaris demand a traffic light. DOT hesitates. Drivers keep ignoring stop signs. The crosswalk remains deadly. The city stalls. Families mourn.
On March 5, 2023, State Senator Michael Gianaris responded to the death of Dolma Naadhum, a 7-year-old killed at a Newtown Road intersection in Astoria, Queens. The incident sparked a petition—over 26,000 signatures—calling for traffic lights to replace stop signs at three crossings. Gianaris pledged to 'make sure we fix Newtown Road where this happened, and to honor her father's request that there be traffic lights there.' The Department of Transportation upgraded crosswalk markings but has not committed to a traffic light, citing a low crash history. Residents and the victim’s family say the intersection remains dangerous, with drivers ignoring stop signs. Gianaris’s support highlights official recognition of the need for stronger protections for pedestrians, especially children, at this site.
-
11-year-old brother of NYC girl killed at intersection calls for new traffic light,
nypost.com,
Published 2023-03-05
S 4647Gianaris 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 2023-02-28
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
Pedestrian Struck Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 25-year-old woman crossing Queens Boulevard with the signal was hit by a speeding vehicle. The driver was inattentive and distracted. The pedestrian suffered back injuries and shock. The crash happened late at night in Queens.
According to the police report, a 25-year-old female pedestrian was crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection with the signal when she was struck by a vehicle traveling north. The pedestrian sustained back injuries and was in shock, complaining of pain and nausea. The report lists the driver's unsafe speed and inattention or distraction as contributing factors. The vehicle impacted the pedestrian at the center front end. No other vehicle details or driver information were provided. The pedestrian was not blamed for the crash.
Gianaris Criticizes Lieber for Harmful MTA Fare Hikes▸MTA Chair Janno Lieber told lawmakers the agency needs $350 million yearly to avoid fare hikes. Legislators pushed back. They called for taxing the wealthy, not straphangers. The fight centers on who pays for transit. Riders wait. The stakes are high.
On February 6, 2023, during a legislative hearing on MTA funding and fare policy, MTA Chair Janno Lieber testified that the agency needs $350 million more each year to prevent subway and bus fare hikes. The hearing, part of the state budget process, saw Lieber defend Governor Hochul’s proposed 5.5-percent fare increase as a return to regular hikes paused during the pandemic. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and colleagues pushed the 'Fix the MTA' package to freeze fares, boost service, and make buses free. Mamdani argued, 'It is simply not acceptable to put the cost of a basic public good on the backs of working class New Yorkers.' Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris criticized Lieber for insisting on fare hikes while dismissing other budget solutions. Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas opposed making her constituents pay more. Lieber expressed concern about free buses, preferring targeted affordability programs. The hearing highlighted a sharp divide: lawmakers want to protect riders; the MTA wants stable funding. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
MTA Could Nix Fare Hikes with Just $350M More Per Year, Lieber Says,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-02-06
A girl died at a Queens intersection. Her brother started a petition. Over 26,000 signed. Neighbors and State Sen. Michael Gianaris demand a traffic light. DOT hesitates. Drivers keep ignoring stop signs. The crosswalk remains deadly. The city stalls. Families mourn.
On March 5, 2023, State Senator Michael Gianaris responded to the death of Dolma Naadhum, a 7-year-old killed at a Newtown Road intersection in Astoria, Queens. The incident sparked a petition—over 26,000 signatures—calling for traffic lights to replace stop signs at three crossings. Gianaris pledged to 'make sure we fix Newtown Road where this happened, and to honor her father's request that there be traffic lights there.' The Department of Transportation upgraded crosswalk markings but has not committed to a traffic light, citing a low crash history. Residents and the victim’s family say the intersection remains dangerous, with drivers ignoring stop signs. Gianaris’s support highlights official recognition of the need for stronger protections for pedestrians, especially children, at this site.
- 11-year-old brother of NYC girl killed at intersection calls for new traffic light, nypost.com, Published 2023-03-05
S 4647Gianaris 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 2023-02-28
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
Pedestrian Struck Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 25-year-old woman crossing Queens Boulevard with the signal was hit by a speeding vehicle. The driver was inattentive and distracted. The pedestrian suffered back injuries and shock. The crash happened late at night in Queens.
According to the police report, a 25-year-old female pedestrian was crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection with the signal when she was struck by a vehicle traveling north. The pedestrian sustained back injuries and was in shock, complaining of pain and nausea. The report lists the driver's unsafe speed and inattention or distraction as contributing factors. The vehicle impacted the pedestrian at the center front end. No other vehicle details or driver information were provided. The pedestrian was not blamed for the crash.
Gianaris Criticizes Lieber for Harmful MTA Fare Hikes▸MTA Chair Janno Lieber told lawmakers the agency needs $350 million yearly to avoid fare hikes. Legislators pushed back. They called for taxing the wealthy, not straphangers. The fight centers on who pays for transit. Riders wait. The stakes are high.
On February 6, 2023, during a legislative hearing on MTA funding and fare policy, MTA Chair Janno Lieber testified that the agency needs $350 million more each year to prevent subway and bus fare hikes. The hearing, part of the state budget process, saw Lieber defend Governor Hochul’s proposed 5.5-percent fare increase as a return to regular hikes paused during the pandemic. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and colleagues pushed the 'Fix the MTA' package to freeze fares, boost service, and make buses free. Mamdani argued, 'It is simply not acceptable to put the cost of a basic public good on the backs of working class New Yorkers.' Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris criticized Lieber for insisting on fare hikes while dismissing other budget solutions. Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas opposed making her constituents pay more. Lieber expressed concern about free buses, preferring targeted affordability programs. The hearing highlighted a sharp divide: lawmakers want to protect riders; the MTA wants stable funding. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
MTA Could Nix Fare Hikes with Just $350M More Per Year, Lieber Says,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-02-06
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 2023-02-28
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
Pedestrian Struck Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 25-year-old woman crossing Queens Boulevard with the signal was hit by a speeding vehicle. The driver was inattentive and distracted. The pedestrian suffered back injuries and shock. The crash happened late at night in Queens.
According to the police report, a 25-year-old female pedestrian was crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection with the signal when she was struck by a vehicle traveling north. The pedestrian sustained back injuries and was in shock, complaining of pain and nausea. The report lists the driver's unsafe speed and inattention or distraction as contributing factors. The vehicle impacted the pedestrian at the center front end. No other vehicle details or driver information were provided. The pedestrian was not blamed for the crash.
Gianaris Criticizes Lieber for Harmful MTA Fare Hikes▸MTA Chair Janno Lieber told lawmakers the agency needs $350 million yearly to avoid fare hikes. Legislators pushed back. They called for taxing the wealthy, not straphangers. The fight centers on who pays for transit. Riders wait. The stakes are high.
On February 6, 2023, during a legislative hearing on MTA funding and fare policy, MTA Chair Janno Lieber testified that the agency needs $350 million more each year to prevent subway and bus fare hikes. The hearing, part of the state budget process, saw Lieber defend Governor Hochul’s proposed 5.5-percent fare increase as a return to regular hikes paused during the pandemic. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and colleagues pushed the 'Fix the MTA' package to freeze fares, boost service, and make buses free. Mamdani argued, 'It is simply not acceptable to put the cost of a basic public good on the backs of working class New Yorkers.' Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris criticized Lieber for insisting on fare hikes while dismissing other budget solutions. Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas opposed making her constituents pay more. Lieber expressed concern about free buses, preferring targeted affordability programs. The hearing highlighted a sharp divide: lawmakers want to protect riders; the MTA wants stable funding. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
MTA Could Nix Fare Hikes with Just $350M More Per Year, Lieber Says,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-02-06
Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
- File A 602, Open States, Published 2023-02-13
A 602Gianaris votes yes in committee, boosting funding for safer street designs.▸Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File A 602,
Open States,
Published 2023-02-13
Pedestrian Struck Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 25-year-old woman crossing Queens Boulevard with the signal was hit by a speeding vehicle. The driver was inattentive and distracted. The pedestrian suffered back injuries and shock. The crash happened late at night in Queens.
According to the police report, a 25-year-old female pedestrian was crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection with the signal when she was struck by a vehicle traveling north. The pedestrian sustained back injuries and was in shock, complaining of pain and nausea. The report lists the driver's unsafe speed and inattention or distraction as contributing factors. The vehicle impacted the pedestrian at the center front end. No other vehicle details or driver information were provided. The pedestrian was not blamed for the crash.
Gianaris Criticizes Lieber for Harmful MTA Fare Hikes▸MTA Chair Janno Lieber told lawmakers the agency needs $350 million yearly to avoid fare hikes. Legislators pushed back. They called for taxing the wealthy, not straphangers. The fight centers on who pays for transit. Riders wait. The stakes are high.
On February 6, 2023, during a legislative hearing on MTA funding and fare policy, MTA Chair Janno Lieber testified that the agency needs $350 million more each year to prevent subway and bus fare hikes. The hearing, part of the state budget process, saw Lieber defend Governor Hochul’s proposed 5.5-percent fare increase as a return to regular hikes paused during the pandemic. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and colleagues pushed the 'Fix the MTA' package to freeze fares, boost service, and make buses free. Mamdani argued, 'It is simply not acceptable to put the cost of a basic public good on the backs of working class New Yorkers.' Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris criticized Lieber for insisting on fare hikes while dismissing other budget solutions. Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas opposed making her constituents pay more. Lieber expressed concern about free buses, preferring targeted affordability programs. The hearing highlighted a sharp divide: lawmakers want to protect riders; the MTA wants stable funding. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
MTA Could Nix Fare Hikes with Just $350M More Per Year, Lieber Says,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-02-06
Assembly and Senate passed A 602. The bill sets state funding rules for federally assisted and municipal complete street projects. Lawmakers moved fast. Streets shaped by budgets, not safety.
Bill A 602, titled 'Relates to the percentage responsibility of the state for federally assisted projects,' passed committee votes in the Assembly on January 24, 2023, and in the Senate on February 13, 2023. Sponsored by Patricia Fahy, the bill addresses how much the state pays for federally assisted projects and for municipal projects with complete street designs. The measure saw broad support, with near-unanimous yes votes in both chambers. The bill's focus is on funding, not on direct safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vulnerable road users. No safety analyst note was provided.
- File A 602, Open States, Published 2023-02-13
Pedestrian Struck Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 25-year-old woman crossing Queens Boulevard with the signal was hit by a speeding vehicle. The driver was inattentive and distracted. The pedestrian suffered back injuries and shock. The crash happened late at night in Queens.
According to the police report, a 25-year-old female pedestrian was crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection with the signal when she was struck by a vehicle traveling north. The pedestrian sustained back injuries and was in shock, complaining of pain and nausea. The report lists the driver's unsafe speed and inattention or distraction as contributing factors. The vehicle impacted the pedestrian at the center front end. No other vehicle details or driver information were provided. The pedestrian was not blamed for the crash.
Gianaris Criticizes Lieber for Harmful MTA Fare Hikes▸MTA Chair Janno Lieber told lawmakers the agency needs $350 million yearly to avoid fare hikes. Legislators pushed back. They called for taxing the wealthy, not straphangers. The fight centers on who pays for transit. Riders wait. The stakes are high.
On February 6, 2023, during a legislative hearing on MTA funding and fare policy, MTA Chair Janno Lieber testified that the agency needs $350 million more each year to prevent subway and bus fare hikes. The hearing, part of the state budget process, saw Lieber defend Governor Hochul’s proposed 5.5-percent fare increase as a return to regular hikes paused during the pandemic. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and colleagues pushed the 'Fix the MTA' package to freeze fares, boost service, and make buses free. Mamdani argued, 'It is simply not acceptable to put the cost of a basic public good on the backs of working class New Yorkers.' Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris criticized Lieber for insisting on fare hikes while dismissing other budget solutions. Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas opposed making her constituents pay more. Lieber expressed concern about free buses, preferring targeted affordability programs. The hearing highlighted a sharp divide: lawmakers want to protect riders; the MTA wants stable funding. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
MTA Could Nix Fare Hikes with Just $350M More Per Year, Lieber Says,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-02-06
A 25-year-old woman crossing Queens Boulevard with the signal was hit by a speeding vehicle. The driver was inattentive and distracted. The pedestrian suffered back injuries and shock. The crash happened late at night in Queens.
According to the police report, a 25-year-old female pedestrian was crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection with the signal when she was struck by a vehicle traveling north. The pedestrian sustained back injuries and was in shock, complaining of pain and nausea. The report lists the driver's unsafe speed and inattention or distraction as contributing factors. The vehicle impacted the pedestrian at the center front end. No other vehicle details or driver information were provided. The pedestrian was not blamed for the crash.
Gianaris Criticizes Lieber for Harmful MTA Fare Hikes▸MTA Chair Janno Lieber told lawmakers the agency needs $350 million yearly to avoid fare hikes. Legislators pushed back. They called for taxing the wealthy, not straphangers. The fight centers on who pays for transit. Riders wait. The stakes are high.
On February 6, 2023, during a legislative hearing on MTA funding and fare policy, MTA Chair Janno Lieber testified that the agency needs $350 million more each year to prevent subway and bus fare hikes. The hearing, part of the state budget process, saw Lieber defend Governor Hochul’s proposed 5.5-percent fare increase as a return to regular hikes paused during the pandemic. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and colleagues pushed the 'Fix the MTA' package to freeze fares, boost service, and make buses free. Mamdani argued, 'It is simply not acceptable to put the cost of a basic public good on the backs of working class New Yorkers.' Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris criticized Lieber for insisting on fare hikes while dismissing other budget solutions. Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas opposed making her constituents pay more. Lieber expressed concern about free buses, preferring targeted affordability programs. The hearing highlighted a sharp divide: lawmakers want to protect riders; the MTA wants stable funding. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
MTA Could Nix Fare Hikes with Just $350M More Per Year, Lieber Says,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2023-02-06
MTA Chair Janno Lieber told lawmakers the agency needs $350 million yearly to avoid fare hikes. Legislators pushed back. They called for taxing the wealthy, not straphangers. The fight centers on who pays for transit. Riders wait. The stakes are high.
On February 6, 2023, during a legislative hearing on MTA funding and fare policy, MTA Chair Janno Lieber testified that the agency needs $350 million more each year to prevent subway and bus fare hikes. The hearing, part of the state budget process, saw Lieber defend Governor Hochul’s proposed 5.5-percent fare increase as a return to regular hikes paused during the pandemic. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and colleagues pushed the 'Fix the MTA' package to freeze fares, boost service, and make buses free. Mamdani argued, 'It is simply not acceptable to put the cost of a basic public good on the backs of working class New Yorkers.' Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris criticized Lieber for insisting on fare hikes while dismissing other budget solutions. Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas opposed making her constituents pay more. Lieber expressed concern about free buses, preferring targeted affordability programs. The hearing highlighted a sharp divide: lawmakers want to protect riders; the MTA wants stable funding. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
- MTA Could Nix Fare Hikes with Just $350M More Per Year, Lieber Says, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2023-02-06