Who’s Injuring and Killing Pedestrians in Glendale?
Glendale Bleeds: Demand Safe Streets Now
Glendale: Jan 1, 2022 - Jun 4, 2025
The Numbers Don’t Lie
One death. Four serious injuries. 391 people hurt. That’s Glendale since 2022. The numbers come slow, but they never stop. Each one is a body broken or a life ended. Each one is a family changed forever. NYC crash data
Children are not spared. Fourteen kids have been injured in the last year alone. One child died. The street does not care how old you are. The street takes what it wants.
The Shape of the Danger
SUVs lead the charge. They hit, they injure, they kill. Six pedestrians struck by SUVs, sedans, bikes, buses, trucks—they all play their part. But the big cars do the most harm. See the numbers.
Cyclists bleed too. A 46-year-old man crushed by a car passing too close. A 54-year-old thrown from his bike by a bus. The road is not safe for those who move without steel around them.
What Has Been Done—And What Hasn’t
No new laws. No bold moves. The city talks about Vision Zero. The state passes bills. But in Glendale, the pace is slow. The danger is fast. There is no sign of a local leader standing up, demanding more for the people who walk and ride here. There is no record of a council member or board chair calling for protected bike lanes, slower speeds, or more enforcement. The silence is loud.
The Call
This is not fate. This is policy. Every crash is a choice made by someone in power. Demand action. Call your council member. Call the mayor. Tell them you want streets where a child can cross without fear. Tell them you want fewer funerals and more safe journeys. Do not wait for another name on the list. Take action now.
Citations
Other Representatives

District 38
83-91 Woodhaven Blvd., Woodhaven, NY 11421
Room 637, Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY 12248

District 32
114-12 Beach Channel Drive, Suite 1, Rockaway Park, NY 11694
718-318-6411
250 Broadway, Suite 1550, New York, NY 10007
212-788-7382

District 15
66-85 73rd Place, Middle Village, NY 11379
Room 811, Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY 12247
▸ Other Geographies
Glendale Glendale sits in Queens, Precinct 104, District 32, AD 38, SD 15, Queens CB5.
▸ See also
Traffic Safety Timeline for Glendale
Int 1160-2025Ariola co-sponsors bill to speed up pavement markings, boosting street safety.▸Council orders DOT to repaint pavement lines within five days after resurfacing. Delays must be explained to the public. Clear markings mean fewer deadly crossings for walkers and riders.
Int 1160-2025, now enacted by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, forces the Department of Transportation to install pavement markings or temporary lines within five business days after any street resurfacing. The bill, sponsored by Farah N. Louis (primary) and co-sponsored by Brannan, Schulman, Banks, Farías, Carr, Ariola, and others, passed on March 15, 2025. The law demands annual reporting on compliance and reasons for any delay. The matter title reads: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to installing pavement markings.' Quick, visible lines cut confusion and protect people crossing or riding. The law took effect immediately.
-
File Int 1160-2025,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2025-01-08
S 131Gianaris co-sponsors bill to consider, not require, complete street design.▸Senate bill S 131 demands complete street design for state-funded projects. Sponsors push for safer roads. Guidance will go public. Streets could change. Pedestrians and cyclists stand to gain.
Senate bill S 131 was introduced on January 8, 2025, now in the sponsorship stage. The bill, titled 'Requires the consideration of complete street design for certain transportation projects which receive federal or state funding,' aims to force safer street planning. Primary sponsor Sean Ryan leads, joined by co-sponsors Jamaal Bailey, Jabari Brisport, Samra Brouk, Cordell Cleare, Leroy Comrie, Jeremy Cooney, Nathalia Fernandez, Michael Gianaris, Kristen Gonzalez, Robert Jackson, Rachel May, Kevin S. Parker, Christopher Ryan, and Luis R. Sepúlveda. The bill also orders the department to publish guidance on street design. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File S 131,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
A 1077Hevesi co-sponsors bill boosting street safety for all users.▸Assembly bill A 1077 pushes for streets built for people, not just cars. Dozens of lawmakers back safer roads. The bill stands at sponsorship. No vote yet. Vulnerable users wait for action.
Assembly bill A 1077, now in sponsorship, aims to 'enable safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles.' Introduced January 8, 2025, the bill sits in committee. Jonathan Rivera leads as primary sponsor, joined by over 60 co-sponsors including Patrick Burke, Robert C. Carroll, and Catalina Cruz. No votes have been cast. The bill's language centers all road users, not just drivers. No safety analyst has yet assessed its impact on vulnerable road users. The measure signals intent but action remains pending.
-
File A 1077,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
A 324Hevesi co-sponsors bill to consider, not require, complete street design.▸Assembly bill A 324 demands complete street design for state- and federally-funded projects. Sponsors push for public guidance. Streets built for people, not just cars. Safety for all hangs in the balance.
Assembly Bill A 324 was introduced on January 8, 2025, now in the sponsorship stage. The bill, titled 'Requires the consideration of complete street design for certain transportation projects which receive federal or state funding,' aims to force planners to consider all users—pedestrians, cyclists, drivers—when building or upgrading roads. Didi Barrett leads as primary sponsor, joined by Rebecca Seawright, Amy Paulin, and many others. The bill also directs the department to publish street design guidance. No safety analyst note yet, but the measure’s intent is clear: streets should protect the most vulnerable, not just move traffic.
-
File A 324,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
A 1077Rajkumar co-sponsors bill boosting street safety for all users.▸Assembly bill A 1077 pushes for streets built for people, not just cars. Dozens of lawmakers back safer roads. The bill stands at sponsorship. No vote yet. Vulnerable users wait for action.
Assembly bill A 1077, now in sponsorship, aims to 'enable safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles.' Introduced January 8, 2025, the bill sits in committee. Jonathan Rivera leads as primary sponsor, joined by over 60 co-sponsors including Patrick Burke, Robert C. Carroll, and Catalina Cruz. No votes have been cast. The bill's language centers all road users, not just drivers. No safety analyst has yet assessed its impact on vulnerable road users. The measure signals intent but action remains pending.
-
File A 1077,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
Robert F Holden Criticizes Congestion Pricing Despite Safety Boost▸Businesses in Manhattan’s toll zone pass new $9 congestion fee to customers. Councilman Holden calls it a scam tax. Residents pay even if they don’t drive. Gridlock grows near the border. Critics warn of rising costs and slower emergency response.
On January 5, 2025, New York City began enforcing congestion pricing below 60th Street, charging drivers $9 during peak hours. The measure, discussed in the article 'NYC residents slapped with congestion pricing ‘surcharge’ by fed-up companies paying new toll: ‘Hochul inflation’,' has sparked backlash. Queens Councilman Robert F. Holden, representing District 30, condemned the move, stating, 'It’s no surprise that businesses will pass the Congestion Scam Tax on to consumers.' Companies like CompuVoip and Dream Events & Decor now add surcharges for customers in the zone. Holden’s criticism joins that of Bronx Councilwoman Kristy Marmorato and others, who warn of higher costs and increased gridlock. Emergency unions claim response times will suffer. The bill’s impact on vulnerable road users was not assessed.
-
NYC residents slapped with congestion pricing ‘surcharge’ by fed-up companies paying new toll: ‘Hochul inflation’,
nypost.com,
Published 2025-01-05
Ariola Opposes National Guard Supports NYPD Policing Boost▸Five days. Five attacks. Blood on the subway rails. Cops, National Guard, Guardian Angels—none stopped the violence. Council members blast failed safety plans. Riders pay the price. City Hall promises change. Riders wait. Danger rides the rails.
On January 2, 2025, Councilwoman Inna Vernikov (District 48) joined other city officials responding to a spike in subway violence. The event, covered by nypost.com, details five consecutive days of stabbings, slashings, and a fatal arson, despite increased NYPD, National Guard, and Guardian Angels patrols. The matter summary reads: 'NYC subways have experienced five consecutive days of violent attacks, including stabbings, slashings, and a fatal arson, despite increased patrols.' Council members Joann Ariola, Robert Holden, and Joe Borelli criticized current safety measures and leadership, calling for stronger action. Mayor Eric Adams backed more police and mental health interventions, while Governor Hochul's National Guard deployment drew fire. City Hall pledged to work with Albany on the Supportive Interventions Act. No direct safety analyst assessment was provided for vulnerable road users.
-
NYC subways have seen attacks for 5 days in a row — despite cops, National Guard and even the Guardian Angels on patrol,
nypost.com,
Published 2025-01-02
Ariola Backs Misguided Bill Slowing Safer Street Changes▸Council bill Intro 103 forces DOT to notify members for every parking change. Critics say it slows life-saving street redesigns. Advocates warn it props up car culture and blocks safer bike lanes. The bill risks more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings.
Intro 103, now before the City Council, would require the Department of Transportation to notify Council members every time a single parking spot is repurposed—for car-share, bike corrals, or Citi Bike docks. The bill, sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, claims residents need notice before losing parking. But DOT and street safety advocates slam the measure as a bureaucratic drag on urgent safety fixes. Council Member Lincoln Restler calls it 'additional hoops and hurdles' for street safety. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso says, 'I don’t know why we entertain any effort to stop or slow-roll safe street design.' Open Plans and StreetsPAC argue the bill props up car dominance and blocks safer, more sustainable streets. The bill could make it harder to move bike infrastructure off sidewalks, risking more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings for pedestrians. Similar bills (Intro 606, Intro 104) face the same criticism.
-
Council Members Want To Be Notified When City Repurposes ‘Their’ Parking,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-18
Robert F Holden Supports Safety Boosting E Bike Registration Bill▸Council Member Holden’s e-bike registration bill faces fierce pushback. Advocates warn it targets immigrants and delivery workers. Business groups fear new costs. Supporters say it brings accountability. Streets remain deadly. Cars still kill most. Debate rages. No easy answers.
Intro. 606, known as Priscilla’s Law, was introduced by Council Member Robert F. Holden of District 30. The bill, debated on December 12, 2024, sits before the City Council. It would require all e-mobility devices not covered by the state DMV to register with the city’s Department of Transportation. The bill’s summary states it aims to increase accountability for e-bike riders after fatal crashes. Holden, the sponsor, cited dangers from unregulated e-vehicles and hit-and-runs. Advocacy groups, including Los Deliveristas Unidos and Open Plans, argue the bill would unfairly criminalize immigrants and delivery workers, and increase police stops for people of color. The NYC Hospitality Alliance warns of new financial and administrative burdens for small businesses. Both sides agree cars cause far more deaths, but the bill’s critics say better street design, not registration, would protect vulnerable road users.
-
Immigrant, hospitality advocacy groups push back on NYC e-bike licensing bill,
amny.com,
Published 2024-12-12
Holden Backs Misguided E-Bike Registration Hurting Safety▸Council Member Holden wants license plates on e-bikes. Lawyers say it’s illegal. The bill could block riders, clash with state law, and open doors to police stops. Critics warn it hurts city goals. The law department stays silent.
Intro 606, a City Council bill introduced by Council Member Bob Holden, would force the Department of Transportation to register e-bikes and issue license plates for a fee. The bill is named after Priscilla Loke, killed by an electric Citi Bike rider. Legal experts Daniel Flanzig, Peter Beadle, and Brandon Chamberlin argue the bill violates state law, which bars cities from imposing fees that restrict the 'free use' of bicycles. They warn it would create barriers to e-bike use and could lead to inconsistent rules across cities. Holden defends the bill as a push for 'accountability and safety.' Critics say it discourages e-bike use and risks police harassment, especially for immigrants. The city Law Department declined comment. The bill’s legal standing and impact on vulnerable road users remain sharply contested.
-
Intro 606 Alert: E-Bike Licensing Bill Is Not Even Legal, Lawyers Say,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-11
SUV Driver With Disability Injured in Queens Crash▸A 67-year-old male driver with a physical disability suffered head injuries and minor bleeding after his SUV struck an object with its left front bumper in Queens. The driver was wearing a lap belt and experienced shock at the scene.
According to the police report, a 67-year-old male driver operating a 2024 Nissan SUV in Queens was injured at 16:27. The vehicle was traveling north and impacted with its left front bumper. The report identifies the driver's physical disability as a contributing factor to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was restrained by a lap belt. Injuries included head trauma and minor bleeding, with the driver reported to be in shock. The report does not cite any failure to yield or other driver errors beyond the physical disability. No pedestrian or cyclist involvement was noted.
SUV Strikes Elderly Pedestrian on Queens Avenue▸A 74-year-old man crossing Metropolitan Avenue outside a crosswalk was struck by a westbound SUV. The impact hit the pedestrian’s head, leaving him semiconscious with minor bleeding. The driver proceeded straight, causing severe injury without yielding.
According to the police report, a 74-year-old male pedestrian was injured after being struck by a Ford SUV traveling westbound on Metropolitan Avenue in Queens around 12:03 AM. The pedestrian was crossing outside a crosswalk when the vehicle's center front end collided with his head, resulting in semiconsciousness and minor bleeding. The report notes the pedestrian’s location as 'Pedestrian Not at Intersection' and action as 'Crossing, No Signal, or Crosswalk.' No specific driver contributing factors were listed, but the collision occurred while the driver was going straight ahead, indicating a failure to yield to a pedestrian in the roadway. The driver was licensed and operating a 2003 SUV. The pedestrian’s injury severity was rated at level 3, highlighting the serious impact of the crash.
2Rear-End Collision in Queens Injures Two▸Two occupants suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on Cooper Avenue. Both drivers were traveling southeast when inattentive driving and following too closely caused impact. Whiplash complaints followed as vehicles collided center-to-center.
According to the police report, a rear-end collision occurred on Cooper Avenue in Queens at 10:13 a.m. Two sedans traveling southeast collided when the driver of the trailing vehicle failed to maintain proper distance and was distracted. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors. Both occupants in the rear vehicle, a 40-year-old male driver and a 40-year-old female passenger, sustained neck injuries described as whiplash. Both were conscious and restrained by lap belts and harnesses at the time of impact. The front vehicle, a 2019 Mercedes sedan, sustained center front end damage, while the rear 2013 Ford sedan was damaged at its center back end. The collision highlights the dangers of driver distraction and tailgating on city streets.
Distracted SUV Hits 10-Year-Old E-Scooter Rider▸A distracted SUV driver struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter on Metropolitan Ave in Queens. The child suffered abrasions and injuries to his lower leg and foot. The SUV showed no damage, while the e-scooter's left front bumper was damaged.
According to the police report, at 17:40 on Metropolitan Ave in Queens, a 2018 SUV traveling north struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter southbound. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor for the crash. The SUV's point of impact was the center front end, while the e-scooter sustained damage to its left front bumper. The boy, who was conscious and not ejected, suffered abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The SUV driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead with four occupants. The e-scooter rider was the sole occupant of his vehicle. No other contributing factors were listed. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving to vulnerable road users like child e-scooter riders.
Int 1105-2024Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
Elderly Pedestrian Hit by Westbound Bike in Queens▸An 84-year-old woman suffered a head contusion after a collision with a westbound bicyclist on 80th Street in Queens. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was confused, contributing to the crash. The bike showed no damage, striking center front.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:49 on 80th Street near 78th Avenue in Queens. An 84-year-old female pedestrian was injured, sustaining a head contusion and classified with injury severity 3. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was noted to have pedestrian error or confusion as a contributing factor. The vehicle involved was a westbound bicycle traveling straight ahead, which struck the pedestrian at the center front end. The bike sustained no damage. The report highlights pedestrian confusion as the contributing factor, with no driver errors cited. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision. This incident underscores the risks posed by pedestrian confusion even when not in the roadway.
Gianaris Supports Safety‑Boosting Penalties for Repeat Reckless Drivers▸Police chases in Astoria’s 114 Precinct have surged. Cyclists and pedestrians pay the price. One cyclist is dead. NYPD ignores its own rules. Dangerous drivers face no real penalty. Officials and residents demand action. The city stalls. Streets stay deadly.
This report covers the sharp rise in high-speed police chases in the NYPD’s 114th Precinct, Astoria, Queens. The article, published October 28, 2024, details community outrage after a cyclist’s death and repeated injuries. NYPD policy says chases should end when risk outweighs reward, but enforcement fails. The Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program, which once forced repeat offenders into safety courses, has expired. Comptroller Brad Lander says, 'Drivers who are repeatedly caught by speed and red-light cameras currently face no consequences other than a fine in the mail. Repeat reckless drivers must be held to account.' State Senator Michael Gianaris calls for stronger penalties, including suspending registrations. The NYPD has not adopted reforms. Residents and advocates demand legislative action and transparency. Without it, vulnerable road users remain at risk.
-
Reckless: The 114 Precinct is an Island of High-Speed Chases In Queens,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-28
Sedan Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A sedan collided with a bicyclist traveling west on Myrtle Avenue near 69 Street in Queens. The bicyclist suffered contusions and bruises but remained conscious. Police cited the sedan driver’s disregard for traffic control as the cause of the crash.
According to the police report, at 8:05 AM in Queens, a 2023 sedan traveling south on 69 Street struck a bicyclist going west on Myrtle Avenue. The point of impact was the sedan's center front end and the bike's right rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 28-year-old male, was injured with contusions and bruises but was conscious and not ejected from the bike. The report identifies 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to obey traffic signals or signs. The bicyclist’s injury severity was moderate, and no contributing factors were attributed to the bicyclist. The sedan driver was licensed and operating the vehicle straight ahead before the collision. This crash highlights the dangers posed by drivers disregarding traffic controls, placing vulnerable road users at risk.
Gianaris Supports Fare Free Buses Amid Safety Concerns▸Governor Hochul stalls congestion pricing, leaving MTA riders in limbo. The pause threatens subway and bus service. Advocates demand any replacement funds boost operations, not highways. Riders need frequent, affordable transit—not more gridlock and pollution.
This editorial, published October 1, 2024, addresses Governor Hochul’s decision to pause congestion pricing and seek alternative funding for the MTA’s $15-billion capital plan. The article states: “If the governor wants to do the MTA and riders a favor, she should use the money she finds to instead boost MTA operations.” Author Samuel Santaella criticizes Hochul’s move, arguing it jeopardizes service for working-class New Yorkers. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and State Senator Michael Gianaris are cited as proponents of fare-free buses, while Riders Alliance pushes for six-minute service. The piece urges Hochul to reject highway expansions and instead invest in frequent, affordable transit. The editorial frames this as a fight for clean air, equity, and safety for all New Yorkers who rely on public transportation.
-
OPINION: Any Money Hochul Finds to ‘Replace’ Congestion Pricing Should Fund Fares and Frequency,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-01
Int 0346-2024Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
Council orders DOT to repaint pavement lines within five days after resurfacing. Delays must be explained to the public. Clear markings mean fewer deadly crossings for walkers and riders.
Int 1160-2025, now enacted by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, forces the Department of Transportation to install pavement markings or temporary lines within five business days after any street resurfacing. The bill, sponsored by Farah N. Louis (primary) and co-sponsored by Brannan, Schulman, Banks, Farías, Carr, Ariola, and others, passed on March 15, 2025. The law demands annual reporting on compliance and reasons for any delay. The matter title reads: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to installing pavement markings.' Quick, visible lines cut confusion and protect people crossing or riding. The law took effect immediately.
- File Int 1160-2025, NYC Council – Legistar, Published 2025-01-08
S 131Gianaris co-sponsors bill to consider, not require, complete street design.▸Senate bill S 131 demands complete street design for state-funded projects. Sponsors push for safer roads. Guidance will go public. Streets could change. Pedestrians and cyclists stand to gain.
Senate bill S 131 was introduced on January 8, 2025, now in the sponsorship stage. The bill, titled 'Requires the consideration of complete street design for certain transportation projects which receive federal or state funding,' aims to force safer street planning. Primary sponsor Sean Ryan leads, joined by co-sponsors Jamaal Bailey, Jabari Brisport, Samra Brouk, Cordell Cleare, Leroy Comrie, Jeremy Cooney, Nathalia Fernandez, Michael Gianaris, Kristen Gonzalez, Robert Jackson, Rachel May, Kevin S. Parker, Christopher Ryan, and Luis R. Sepúlveda. The bill also orders the department to publish guidance on street design. No safety analyst note was provided.
-
File S 131,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
A 1077Hevesi co-sponsors bill boosting street safety for all users.▸Assembly bill A 1077 pushes for streets built for people, not just cars. Dozens of lawmakers back safer roads. The bill stands at sponsorship. No vote yet. Vulnerable users wait for action.
Assembly bill A 1077, now in sponsorship, aims to 'enable safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles.' Introduced January 8, 2025, the bill sits in committee. Jonathan Rivera leads as primary sponsor, joined by over 60 co-sponsors including Patrick Burke, Robert C. Carroll, and Catalina Cruz. No votes have been cast. The bill's language centers all road users, not just drivers. No safety analyst has yet assessed its impact on vulnerable road users. The measure signals intent but action remains pending.
-
File A 1077,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
A 324Hevesi co-sponsors bill to consider, not require, complete street design.▸Assembly bill A 324 demands complete street design for state- and federally-funded projects. Sponsors push for public guidance. Streets built for people, not just cars. Safety for all hangs in the balance.
Assembly Bill A 324 was introduced on January 8, 2025, now in the sponsorship stage. The bill, titled 'Requires the consideration of complete street design for certain transportation projects which receive federal or state funding,' aims to force planners to consider all users—pedestrians, cyclists, drivers—when building or upgrading roads. Didi Barrett leads as primary sponsor, joined by Rebecca Seawright, Amy Paulin, and many others. The bill also directs the department to publish street design guidance. No safety analyst note yet, but the measure’s intent is clear: streets should protect the most vulnerable, not just move traffic.
-
File A 324,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
A 1077Rajkumar co-sponsors bill boosting street safety for all users.▸Assembly bill A 1077 pushes for streets built for people, not just cars. Dozens of lawmakers back safer roads. The bill stands at sponsorship. No vote yet. Vulnerable users wait for action.
Assembly bill A 1077, now in sponsorship, aims to 'enable safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles.' Introduced January 8, 2025, the bill sits in committee. Jonathan Rivera leads as primary sponsor, joined by over 60 co-sponsors including Patrick Burke, Robert C. Carroll, and Catalina Cruz. No votes have been cast. The bill's language centers all road users, not just drivers. No safety analyst has yet assessed its impact on vulnerable road users. The measure signals intent but action remains pending.
-
File A 1077,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
Robert F Holden Criticizes Congestion Pricing Despite Safety Boost▸Businesses in Manhattan’s toll zone pass new $9 congestion fee to customers. Councilman Holden calls it a scam tax. Residents pay even if they don’t drive. Gridlock grows near the border. Critics warn of rising costs and slower emergency response.
On January 5, 2025, New York City began enforcing congestion pricing below 60th Street, charging drivers $9 during peak hours. The measure, discussed in the article 'NYC residents slapped with congestion pricing ‘surcharge’ by fed-up companies paying new toll: ‘Hochul inflation’,' has sparked backlash. Queens Councilman Robert F. Holden, representing District 30, condemned the move, stating, 'It’s no surprise that businesses will pass the Congestion Scam Tax on to consumers.' Companies like CompuVoip and Dream Events & Decor now add surcharges for customers in the zone. Holden’s criticism joins that of Bronx Councilwoman Kristy Marmorato and others, who warn of higher costs and increased gridlock. Emergency unions claim response times will suffer. The bill’s impact on vulnerable road users was not assessed.
-
NYC residents slapped with congestion pricing ‘surcharge’ by fed-up companies paying new toll: ‘Hochul inflation’,
nypost.com,
Published 2025-01-05
Ariola Opposes National Guard Supports NYPD Policing Boost▸Five days. Five attacks. Blood on the subway rails. Cops, National Guard, Guardian Angels—none stopped the violence. Council members blast failed safety plans. Riders pay the price. City Hall promises change. Riders wait. Danger rides the rails.
On January 2, 2025, Councilwoman Inna Vernikov (District 48) joined other city officials responding to a spike in subway violence. The event, covered by nypost.com, details five consecutive days of stabbings, slashings, and a fatal arson, despite increased NYPD, National Guard, and Guardian Angels patrols. The matter summary reads: 'NYC subways have experienced five consecutive days of violent attacks, including stabbings, slashings, and a fatal arson, despite increased patrols.' Council members Joann Ariola, Robert Holden, and Joe Borelli criticized current safety measures and leadership, calling for stronger action. Mayor Eric Adams backed more police and mental health interventions, while Governor Hochul's National Guard deployment drew fire. City Hall pledged to work with Albany on the Supportive Interventions Act. No direct safety analyst assessment was provided for vulnerable road users.
-
NYC subways have seen attacks for 5 days in a row — despite cops, National Guard and even the Guardian Angels on patrol,
nypost.com,
Published 2025-01-02
Ariola Backs Misguided Bill Slowing Safer Street Changes▸Council bill Intro 103 forces DOT to notify members for every parking change. Critics say it slows life-saving street redesigns. Advocates warn it props up car culture and blocks safer bike lanes. The bill risks more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings.
Intro 103, now before the City Council, would require the Department of Transportation to notify Council members every time a single parking spot is repurposed—for car-share, bike corrals, or Citi Bike docks. The bill, sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, claims residents need notice before losing parking. But DOT and street safety advocates slam the measure as a bureaucratic drag on urgent safety fixes. Council Member Lincoln Restler calls it 'additional hoops and hurdles' for street safety. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso says, 'I don’t know why we entertain any effort to stop or slow-roll safe street design.' Open Plans and StreetsPAC argue the bill props up car dominance and blocks safer, more sustainable streets. The bill could make it harder to move bike infrastructure off sidewalks, risking more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings for pedestrians. Similar bills (Intro 606, Intro 104) face the same criticism.
-
Council Members Want To Be Notified When City Repurposes ‘Their’ Parking,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-18
Robert F Holden Supports Safety Boosting E Bike Registration Bill▸Council Member Holden’s e-bike registration bill faces fierce pushback. Advocates warn it targets immigrants and delivery workers. Business groups fear new costs. Supporters say it brings accountability. Streets remain deadly. Cars still kill most. Debate rages. No easy answers.
Intro. 606, known as Priscilla’s Law, was introduced by Council Member Robert F. Holden of District 30. The bill, debated on December 12, 2024, sits before the City Council. It would require all e-mobility devices not covered by the state DMV to register with the city’s Department of Transportation. The bill’s summary states it aims to increase accountability for e-bike riders after fatal crashes. Holden, the sponsor, cited dangers from unregulated e-vehicles and hit-and-runs. Advocacy groups, including Los Deliveristas Unidos and Open Plans, argue the bill would unfairly criminalize immigrants and delivery workers, and increase police stops for people of color. The NYC Hospitality Alliance warns of new financial and administrative burdens for small businesses. Both sides agree cars cause far more deaths, but the bill’s critics say better street design, not registration, would protect vulnerable road users.
-
Immigrant, hospitality advocacy groups push back on NYC e-bike licensing bill,
amny.com,
Published 2024-12-12
Holden Backs Misguided E-Bike Registration Hurting Safety▸Council Member Holden wants license plates on e-bikes. Lawyers say it’s illegal. The bill could block riders, clash with state law, and open doors to police stops. Critics warn it hurts city goals. The law department stays silent.
Intro 606, a City Council bill introduced by Council Member Bob Holden, would force the Department of Transportation to register e-bikes and issue license plates for a fee. The bill is named after Priscilla Loke, killed by an electric Citi Bike rider. Legal experts Daniel Flanzig, Peter Beadle, and Brandon Chamberlin argue the bill violates state law, which bars cities from imposing fees that restrict the 'free use' of bicycles. They warn it would create barriers to e-bike use and could lead to inconsistent rules across cities. Holden defends the bill as a push for 'accountability and safety.' Critics say it discourages e-bike use and risks police harassment, especially for immigrants. The city Law Department declined comment. The bill’s legal standing and impact on vulnerable road users remain sharply contested.
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Intro 606 Alert: E-Bike Licensing Bill Is Not Even Legal, Lawyers Say,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-11
SUV Driver With Disability Injured in Queens Crash▸A 67-year-old male driver with a physical disability suffered head injuries and minor bleeding after his SUV struck an object with its left front bumper in Queens. The driver was wearing a lap belt and experienced shock at the scene.
According to the police report, a 67-year-old male driver operating a 2024 Nissan SUV in Queens was injured at 16:27. The vehicle was traveling north and impacted with its left front bumper. The report identifies the driver's physical disability as a contributing factor to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was restrained by a lap belt. Injuries included head trauma and minor bleeding, with the driver reported to be in shock. The report does not cite any failure to yield or other driver errors beyond the physical disability. No pedestrian or cyclist involvement was noted.
SUV Strikes Elderly Pedestrian on Queens Avenue▸A 74-year-old man crossing Metropolitan Avenue outside a crosswalk was struck by a westbound SUV. The impact hit the pedestrian’s head, leaving him semiconscious with minor bleeding. The driver proceeded straight, causing severe injury without yielding.
According to the police report, a 74-year-old male pedestrian was injured after being struck by a Ford SUV traveling westbound on Metropolitan Avenue in Queens around 12:03 AM. The pedestrian was crossing outside a crosswalk when the vehicle's center front end collided with his head, resulting in semiconsciousness and minor bleeding. The report notes the pedestrian’s location as 'Pedestrian Not at Intersection' and action as 'Crossing, No Signal, or Crosswalk.' No specific driver contributing factors were listed, but the collision occurred while the driver was going straight ahead, indicating a failure to yield to a pedestrian in the roadway. The driver was licensed and operating a 2003 SUV. The pedestrian’s injury severity was rated at level 3, highlighting the serious impact of the crash.
2Rear-End Collision in Queens Injures Two▸Two occupants suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on Cooper Avenue. Both drivers were traveling southeast when inattentive driving and following too closely caused impact. Whiplash complaints followed as vehicles collided center-to-center.
According to the police report, a rear-end collision occurred on Cooper Avenue in Queens at 10:13 a.m. Two sedans traveling southeast collided when the driver of the trailing vehicle failed to maintain proper distance and was distracted. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors. Both occupants in the rear vehicle, a 40-year-old male driver and a 40-year-old female passenger, sustained neck injuries described as whiplash. Both were conscious and restrained by lap belts and harnesses at the time of impact. The front vehicle, a 2019 Mercedes sedan, sustained center front end damage, while the rear 2013 Ford sedan was damaged at its center back end. The collision highlights the dangers of driver distraction and tailgating on city streets.
Distracted SUV Hits 10-Year-Old E-Scooter Rider▸A distracted SUV driver struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter on Metropolitan Ave in Queens. The child suffered abrasions and injuries to his lower leg and foot. The SUV showed no damage, while the e-scooter's left front bumper was damaged.
According to the police report, at 17:40 on Metropolitan Ave in Queens, a 2018 SUV traveling north struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter southbound. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor for the crash. The SUV's point of impact was the center front end, while the e-scooter sustained damage to its left front bumper. The boy, who was conscious and not ejected, suffered abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The SUV driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead with four occupants. The e-scooter rider was the sole occupant of his vehicle. No other contributing factors were listed. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving to vulnerable road users like child e-scooter riders.
Int 1105-2024Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
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File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
Elderly Pedestrian Hit by Westbound Bike in Queens▸An 84-year-old woman suffered a head contusion after a collision with a westbound bicyclist on 80th Street in Queens. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was confused, contributing to the crash. The bike showed no damage, striking center front.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:49 on 80th Street near 78th Avenue in Queens. An 84-year-old female pedestrian was injured, sustaining a head contusion and classified with injury severity 3. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was noted to have pedestrian error or confusion as a contributing factor. The vehicle involved was a westbound bicycle traveling straight ahead, which struck the pedestrian at the center front end. The bike sustained no damage. The report highlights pedestrian confusion as the contributing factor, with no driver errors cited. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision. This incident underscores the risks posed by pedestrian confusion even when not in the roadway.
Gianaris Supports Safety‑Boosting Penalties for Repeat Reckless Drivers▸Police chases in Astoria’s 114 Precinct have surged. Cyclists and pedestrians pay the price. One cyclist is dead. NYPD ignores its own rules. Dangerous drivers face no real penalty. Officials and residents demand action. The city stalls. Streets stay deadly.
This report covers the sharp rise in high-speed police chases in the NYPD’s 114th Precinct, Astoria, Queens. The article, published October 28, 2024, details community outrage after a cyclist’s death and repeated injuries. NYPD policy says chases should end when risk outweighs reward, but enforcement fails. The Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program, which once forced repeat offenders into safety courses, has expired. Comptroller Brad Lander says, 'Drivers who are repeatedly caught by speed and red-light cameras currently face no consequences other than a fine in the mail. Repeat reckless drivers must be held to account.' State Senator Michael Gianaris calls for stronger penalties, including suspending registrations. The NYPD has not adopted reforms. Residents and advocates demand legislative action and transparency. Without it, vulnerable road users remain at risk.
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Reckless: The 114 Precinct is an Island of High-Speed Chases In Queens,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-28
Sedan Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A sedan collided with a bicyclist traveling west on Myrtle Avenue near 69 Street in Queens. The bicyclist suffered contusions and bruises but remained conscious. Police cited the sedan driver’s disregard for traffic control as the cause of the crash.
According to the police report, at 8:05 AM in Queens, a 2023 sedan traveling south on 69 Street struck a bicyclist going west on Myrtle Avenue. The point of impact was the sedan's center front end and the bike's right rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 28-year-old male, was injured with contusions and bruises but was conscious and not ejected from the bike. The report identifies 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to obey traffic signals or signs. The bicyclist’s injury severity was moderate, and no contributing factors were attributed to the bicyclist. The sedan driver was licensed and operating the vehicle straight ahead before the collision. This crash highlights the dangers posed by drivers disregarding traffic controls, placing vulnerable road users at risk.
Gianaris Supports Fare Free Buses Amid Safety Concerns▸Governor Hochul stalls congestion pricing, leaving MTA riders in limbo. The pause threatens subway and bus service. Advocates demand any replacement funds boost operations, not highways. Riders need frequent, affordable transit—not more gridlock and pollution.
This editorial, published October 1, 2024, addresses Governor Hochul’s decision to pause congestion pricing and seek alternative funding for the MTA’s $15-billion capital plan. The article states: “If the governor wants to do the MTA and riders a favor, she should use the money she finds to instead boost MTA operations.” Author Samuel Santaella criticizes Hochul’s move, arguing it jeopardizes service for working-class New Yorkers. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and State Senator Michael Gianaris are cited as proponents of fare-free buses, while Riders Alliance pushes for six-minute service. The piece urges Hochul to reject highway expansions and instead invest in frequent, affordable transit. The editorial frames this as a fight for clean air, equity, and safety for all New Yorkers who rely on public transportation.
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OPINION: Any Money Hochul Finds to ‘Replace’ Congestion Pricing Should Fund Fares and Frequency,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-01
Int 0346-2024Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
Senate bill S 131 demands complete street design for state-funded projects. Sponsors push for safer roads. Guidance will go public. Streets could change. Pedestrians and cyclists stand to gain.
Senate bill S 131 was introduced on January 8, 2025, now in the sponsorship stage. The bill, titled 'Requires the consideration of complete street design for certain transportation projects which receive federal or state funding,' aims to force safer street planning. Primary sponsor Sean Ryan leads, joined by co-sponsors Jamaal Bailey, Jabari Brisport, Samra Brouk, Cordell Cleare, Leroy Comrie, Jeremy Cooney, Nathalia Fernandez, Michael Gianaris, Kristen Gonzalez, Robert Jackson, Rachel May, Kevin S. Parker, Christopher Ryan, and Luis R. Sepúlveda. The bill also orders the department to publish guidance on street design. No safety analyst note was provided.
- File S 131, Open States, Published 2025-01-08
A 1077Hevesi co-sponsors bill boosting street safety for all users.▸Assembly bill A 1077 pushes for streets built for people, not just cars. Dozens of lawmakers back safer roads. The bill stands at sponsorship. No vote yet. Vulnerable users wait for action.
Assembly bill A 1077, now in sponsorship, aims to 'enable safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles.' Introduced January 8, 2025, the bill sits in committee. Jonathan Rivera leads as primary sponsor, joined by over 60 co-sponsors including Patrick Burke, Robert C. Carroll, and Catalina Cruz. No votes have been cast. The bill's language centers all road users, not just drivers. No safety analyst has yet assessed its impact on vulnerable road users. The measure signals intent but action remains pending.
-
File A 1077,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
A 324Hevesi co-sponsors bill to consider, not require, complete street design.▸Assembly bill A 324 demands complete street design for state- and federally-funded projects. Sponsors push for public guidance. Streets built for people, not just cars. Safety for all hangs in the balance.
Assembly Bill A 324 was introduced on January 8, 2025, now in the sponsorship stage. The bill, titled 'Requires the consideration of complete street design for certain transportation projects which receive federal or state funding,' aims to force planners to consider all users—pedestrians, cyclists, drivers—when building or upgrading roads. Didi Barrett leads as primary sponsor, joined by Rebecca Seawright, Amy Paulin, and many others. The bill also directs the department to publish street design guidance. No safety analyst note yet, but the measure’s intent is clear: streets should protect the most vulnerable, not just move traffic.
-
File A 324,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
A 1077Rajkumar co-sponsors bill boosting street safety for all users.▸Assembly bill A 1077 pushes for streets built for people, not just cars. Dozens of lawmakers back safer roads. The bill stands at sponsorship. No vote yet. Vulnerable users wait for action.
Assembly bill A 1077, now in sponsorship, aims to 'enable safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles.' Introduced January 8, 2025, the bill sits in committee. Jonathan Rivera leads as primary sponsor, joined by over 60 co-sponsors including Patrick Burke, Robert C. Carroll, and Catalina Cruz. No votes have been cast. The bill's language centers all road users, not just drivers. No safety analyst has yet assessed its impact on vulnerable road users. The measure signals intent but action remains pending.
-
File A 1077,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
Robert F Holden Criticizes Congestion Pricing Despite Safety Boost▸Businesses in Manhattan’s toll zone pass new $9 congestion fee to customers. Councilman Holden calls it a scam tax. Residents pay even if they don’t drive. Gridlock grows near the border. Critics warn of rising costs and slower emergency response.
On January 5, 2025, New York City began enforcing congestion pricing below 60th Street, charging drivers $9 during peak hours. The measure, discussed in the article 'NYC residents slapped with congestion pricing ‘surcharge’ by fed-up companies paying new toll: ‘Hochul inflation’,' has sparked backlash. Queens Councilman Robert F. Holden, representing District 30, condemned the move, stating, 'It’s no surprise that businesses will pass the Congestion Scam Tax on to consumers.' Companies like CompuVoip and Dream Events & Decor now add surcharges for customers in the zone. Holden’s criticism joins that of Bronx Councilwoman Kristy Marmorato and others, who warn of higher costs and increased gridlock. Emergency unions claim response times will suffer. The bill’s impact on vulnerable road users was not assessed.
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NYC residents slapped with congestion pricing ‘surcharge’ by fed-up companies paying new toll: ‘Hochul inflation’,
nypost.com,
Published 2025-01-05
Ariola Opposes National Guard Supports NYPD Policing Boost▸Five days. Five attacks. Blood on the subway rails. Cops, National Guard, Guardian Angels—none stopped the violence. Council members blast failed safety plans. Riders pay the price. City Hall promises change. Riders wait. Danger rides the rails.
On January 2, 2025, Councilwoman Inna Vernikov (District 48) joined other city officials responding to a spike in subway violence. The event, covered by nypost.com, details five consecutive days of stabbings, slashings, and a fatal arson, despite increased NYPD, National Guard, and Guardian Angels patrols. The matter summary reads: 'NYC subways have experienced five consecutive days of violent attacks, including stabbings, slashings, and a fatal arson, despite increased patrols.' Council members Joann Ariola, Robert Holden, and Joe Borelli criticized current safety measures and leadership, calling for stronger action. Mayor Eric Adams backed more police and mental health interventions, while Governor Hochul's National Guard deployment drew fire. City Hall pledged to work with Albany on the Supportive Interventions Act. No direct safety analyst assessment was provided for vulnerable road users.
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NYC subways have seen attacks for 5 days in a row — despite cops, National Guard and even the Guardian Angels on patrol,
nypost.com,
Published 2025-01-02
Ariola Backs Misguided Bill Slowing Safer Street Changes▸Council bill Intro 103 forces DOT to notify members for every parking change. Critics say it slows life-saving street redesigns. Advocates warn it props up car culture and blocks safer bike lanes. The bill risks more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings.
Intro 103, now before the City Council, would require the Department of Transportation to notify Council members every time a single parking spot is repurposed—for car-share, bike corrals, or Citi Bike docks. The bill, sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, claims residents need notice before losing parking. But DOT and street safety advocates slam the measure as a bureaucratic drag on urgent safety fixes. Council Member Lincoln Restler calls it 'additional hoops and hurdles' for street safety. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso says, 'I don’t know why we entertain any effort to stop or slow-roll safe street design.' Open Plans and StreetsPAC argue the bill props up car dominance and blocks safer, more sustainable streets. The bill could make it harder to move bike infrastructure off sidewalks, risking more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings for pedestrians. Similar bills (Intro 606, Intro 104) face the same criticism.
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Council Members Want To Be Notified When City Repurposes ‘Their’ Parking,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-18
Robert F Holden Supports Safety Boosting E Bike Registration Bill▸Council Member Holden’s e-bike registration bill faces fierce pushback. Advocates warn it targets immigrants and delivery workers. Business groups fear new costs. Supporters say it brings accountability. Streets remain deadly. Cars still kill most. Debate rages. No easy answers.
Intro. 606, known as Priscilla’s Law, was introduced by Council Member Robert F. Holden of District 30. The bill, debated on December 12, 2024, sits before the City Council. It would require all e-mobility devices not covered by the state DMV to register with the city’s Department of Transportation. The bill’s summary states it aims to increase accountability for e-bike riders after fatal crashes. Holden, the sponsor, cited dangers from unregulated e-vehicles and hit-and-runs. Advocacy groups, including Los Deliveristas Unidos and Open Plans, argue the bill would unfairly criminalize immigrants and delivery workers, and increase police stops for people of color. The NYC Hospitality Alliance warns of new financial and administrative burdens for small businesses. Both sides agree cars cause far more deaths, but the bill’s critics say better street design, not registration, would protect vulnerable road users.
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Immigrant, hospitality advocacy groups push back on NYC e-bike licensing bill,
amny.com,
Published 2024-12-12
Holden Backs Misguided E-Bike Registration Hurting Safety▸Council Member Holden wants license plates on e-bikes. Lawyers say it’s illegal. The bill could block riders, clash with state law, and open doors to police stops. Critics warn it hurts city goals. The law department stays silent.
Intro 606, a City Council bill introduced by Council Member Bob Holden, would force the Department of Transportation to register e-bikes and issue license plates for a fee. The bill is named after Priscilla Loke, killed by an electric Citi Bike rider. Legal experts Daniel Flanzig, Peter Beadle, and Brandon Chamberlin argue the bill violates state law, which bars cities from imposing fees that restrict the 'free use' of bicycles. They warn it would create barriers to e-bike use and could lead to inconsistent rules across cities. Holden defends the bill as a push for 'accountability and safety.' Critics say it discourages e-bike use and risks police harassment, especially for immigrants. The city Law Department declined comment. The bill’s legal standing and impact on vulnerable road users remain sharply contested.
-
Intro 606 Alert: E-Bike Licensing Bill Is Not Even Legal, Lawyers Say,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-11
SUV Driver With Disability Injured in Queens Crash▸A 67-year-old male driver with a physical disability suffered head injuries and minor bleeding after his SUV struck an object with its left front bumper in Queens. The driver was wearing a lap belt and experienced shock at the scene.
According to the police report, a 67-year-old male driver operating a 2024 Nissan SUV in Queens was injured at 16:27. The vehicle was traveling north and impacted with its left front bumper. The report identifies the driver's physical disability as a contributing factor to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was restrained by a lap belt. Injuries included head trauma and minor bleeding, with the driver reported to be in shock. The report does not cite any failure to yield or other driver errors beyond the physical disability. No pedestrian or cyclist involvement was noted.
SUV Strikes Elderly Pedestrian on Queens Avenue▸A 74-year-old man crossing Metropolitan Avenue outside a crosswalk was struck by a westbound SUV. The impact hit the pedestrian’s head, leaving him semiconscious with minor bleeding. The driver proceeded straight, causing severe injury without yielding.
According to the police report, a 74-year-old male pedestrian was injured after being struck by a Ford SUV traveling westbound on Metropolitan Avenue in Queens around 12:03 AM. The pedestrian was crossing outside a crosswalk when the vehicle's center front end collided with his head, resulting in semiconsciousness and minor bleeding. The report notes the pedestrian’s location as 'Pedestrian Not at Intersection' and action as 'Crossing, No Signal, or Crosswalk.' No specific driver contributing factors were listed, but the collision occurred while the driver was going straight ahead, indicating a failure to yield to a pedestrian in the roadway. The driver was licensed and operating a 2003 SUV. The pedestrian’s injury severity was rated at level 3, highlighting the serious impact of the crash.
2Rear-End Collision in Queens Injures Two▸Two occupants suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on Cooper Avenue. Both drivers were traveling southeast when inattentive driving and following too closely caused impact. Whiplash complaints followed as vehicles collided center-to-center.
According to the police report, a rear-end collision occurred on Cooper Avenue in Queens at 10:13 a.m. Two sedans traveling southeast collided when the driver of the trailing vehicle failed to maintain proper distance and was distracted. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors. Both occupants in the rear vehicle, a 40-year-old male driver and a 40-year-old female passenger, sustained neck injuries described as whiplash. Both were conscious and restrained by lap belts and harnesses at the time of impact. The front vehicle, a 2019 Mercedes sedan, sustained center front end damage, while the rear 2013 Ford sedan was damaged at its center back end. The collision highlights the dangers of driver distraction and tailgating on city streets.
Distracted SUV Hits 10-Year-Old E-Scooter Rider▸A distracted SUV driver struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter on Metropolitan Ave in Queens. The child suffered abrasions and injuries to his lower leg and foot. The SUV showed no damage, while the e-scooter's left front bumper was damaged.
According to the police report, at 17:40 on Metropolitan Ave in Queens, a 2018 SUV traveling north struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter southbound. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor for the crash. The SUV's point of impact was the center front end, while the e-scooter sustained damage to its left front bumper. The boy, who was conscious and not ejected, suffered abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The SUV driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead with four occupants. The e-scooter rider was the sole occupant of his vehicle. No other contributing factors were listed. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving to vulnerable road users like child e-scooter riders.
Int 1105-2024Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
Elderly Pedestrian Hit by Westbound Bike in Queens▸An 84-year-old woman suffered a head contusion after a collision with a westbound bicyclist on 80th Street in Queens. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was confused, contributing to the crash. The bike showed no damage, striking center front.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:49 on 80th Street near 78th Avenue in Queens. An 84-year-old female pedestrian was injured, sustaining a head contusion and classified with injury severity 3. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was noted to have pedestrian error or confusion as a contributing factor. The vehicle involved was a westbound bicycle traveling straight ahead, which struck the pedestrian at the center front end. The bike sustained no damage. The report highlights pedestrian confusion as the contributing factor, with no driver errors cited. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision. This incident underscores the risks posed by pedestrian confusion even when not in the roadway.
Gianaris Supports Safety‑Boosting Penalties for Repeat Reckless Drivers▸Police chases in Astoria’s 114 Precinct have surged. Cyclists and pedestrians pay the price. One cyclist is dead. NYPD ignores its own rules. Dangerous drivers face no real penalty. Officials and residents demand action. The city stalls. Streets stay deadly.
This report covers the sharp rise in high-speed police chases in the NYPD’s 114th Precinct, Astoria, Queens. The article, published October 28, 2024, details community outrage after a cyclist’s death and repeated injuries. NYPD policy says chases should end when risk outweighs reward, but enforcement fails. The Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program, which once forced repeat offenders into safety courses, has expired. Comptroller Brad Lander says, 'Drivers who are repeatedly caught by speed and red-light cameras currently face no consequences other than a fine in the mail. Repeat reckless drivers must be held to account.' State Senator Michael Gianaris calls for stronger penalties, including suspending registrations. The NYPD has not adopted reforms. Residents and advocates demand legislative action and transparency. Without it, vulnerable road users remain at risk.
-
Reckless: The 114 Precinct is an Island of High-Speed Chases In Queens,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-28
Sedan Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A sedan collided with a bicyclist traveling west on Myrtle Avenue near 69 Street in Queens. The bicyclist suffered contusions and bruises but remained conscious. Police cited the sedan driver’s disregard for traffic control as the cause of the crash.
According to the police report, at 8:05 AM in Queens, a 2023 sedan traveling south on 69 Street struck a bicyclist going west on Myrtle Avenue. The point of impact was the sedan's center front end and the bike's right rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 28-year-old male, was injured with contusions and bruises but was conscious and not ejected from the bike. The report identifies 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to obey traffic signals or signs. The bicyclist’s injury severity was moderate, and no contributing factors were attributed to the bicyclist. The sedan driver was licensed and operating the vehicle straight ahead before the collision. This crash highlights the dangers posed by drivers disregarding traffic controls, placing vulnerable road users at risk.
Gianaris Supports Fare Free Buses Amid Safety Concerns▸Governor Hochul stalls congestion pricing, leaving MTA riders in limbo. The pause threatens subway and bus service. Advocates demand any replacement funds boost operations, not highways. Riders need frequent, affordable transit—not more gridlock and pollution.
This editorial, published October 1, 2024, addresses Governor Hochul’s decision to pause congestion pricing and seek alternative funding for the MTA’s $15-billion capital plan. The article states: “If the governor wants to do the MTA and riders a favor, she should use the money she finds to instead boost MTA operations.” Author Samuel Santaella criticizes Hochul’s move, arguing it jeopardizes service for working-class New Yorkers. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and State Senator Michael Gianaris are cited as proponents of fare-free buses, while Riders Alliance pushes for six-minute service. The piece urges Hochul to reject highway expansions and instead invest in frequent, affordable transit. The editorial frames this as a fight for clean air, equity, and safety for all New Yorkers who rely on public transportation.
-
OPINION: Any Money Hochul Finds to ‘Replace’ Congestion Pricing Should Fund Fares and Frequency,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-01
Int 0346-2024Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
Assembly bill A 1077 pushes for streets built for people, not just cars. Dozens of lawmakers back safer roads. The bill stands at sponsorship. No vote yet. Vulnerable users wait for action.
Assembly bill A 1077, now in sponsorship, aims to 'enable safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles.' Introduced January 8, 2025, the bill sits in committee. Jonathan Rivera leads as primary sponsor, joined by over 60 co-sponsors including Patrick Burke, Robert C. Carroll, and Catalina Cruz. No votes have been cast. The bill's language centers all road users, not just drivers. No safety analyst has yet assessed its impact on vulnerable road users. The measure signals intent but action remains pending.
- File A 1077, Open States, Published 2025-01-08
A 324Hevesi co-sponsors bill to consider, not require, complete street design.▸Assembly bill A 324 demands complete street design for state- and federally-funded projects. Sponsors push for public guidance. Streets built for people, not just cars. Safety for all hangs in the balance.
Assembly Bill A 324 was introduced on January 8, 2025, now in the sponsorship stage. The bill, titled 'Requires the consideration of complete street design for certain transportation projects which receive federal or state funding,' aims to force planners to consider all users—pedestrians, cyclists, drivers—when building or upgrading roads. Didi Barrett leads as primary sponsor, joined by Rebecca Seawright, Amy Paulin, and many others. The bill also directs the department to publish street design guidance. No safety analyst note yet, but the measure’s intent is clear: streets should protect the most vulnerable, not just move traffic.
-
File A 324,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
A 1077Rajkumar co-sponsors bill boosting street safety for all users.▸Assembly bill A 1077 pushes for streets built for people, not just cars. Dozens of lawmakers back safer roads. The bill stands at sponsorship. No vote yet. Vulnerable users wait for action.
Assembly bill A 1077, now in sponsorship, aims to 'enable safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles.' Introduced January 8, 2025, the bill sits in committee. Jonathan Rivera leads as primary sponsor, joined by over 60 co-sponsors including Patrick Burke, Robert C. Carroll, and Catalina Cruz. No votes have been cast. The bill's language centers all road users, not just drivers. No safety analyst has yet assessed its impact on vulnerable road users. The measure signals intent but action remains pending.
-
File A 1077,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
Robert F Holden Criticizes Congestion Pricing Despite Safety Boost▸Businesses in Manhattan’s toll zone pass new $9 congestion fee to customers. Councilman Holden calls it a scam tax. Residents pay even if they don’t drive. Gridlock grows near the border. Critics warn of rising costs and slower emergency response.
On January 5, 2025, New York City began enforcing congestion pricing below 60th Street, charging drivers $9 during peak hours. The measure, discussed in the article 'NYC residents slapped with congestion pricing ‘surcharge’ by fed-up companies paying new toll: ‘Hochul inflation’,' has sparked backlash. Queens Councilman Robert F. Holden, representing District 30, condemned the move, stating, 'It’s no surprise that businesses will pass the Congestion Scam Tax on to consumers.' Companies like CompuVoip and Dream Events & Decor now add surcharges for customers in the zone. Holden’s criticism joins that of Bronx Councilwoman Kristy Marmorato and others, who warn of higher costs and increased gridlock. Emergency unions claim response times will suffer. The bill’s impact on vulnerable road users was not assessed.
-
NYC residents slapped with congestion pricing ‘surcharge’ by fed-up companies paying new toll: ‘Hochul inflation’,
nypost.com,
Published 2025-01-05
Ariola Opposes National Guard Supports NYPD Policing Boost▸Five days. Five attacks. Blood on the subway rails. Cops, National Guard, Guardian Angels—none stopped the violence. Council members blast failed safety plans. Riders pay the price. City Hall promises change. Riders wait. Danger rides the rails.
On January 2, 2025, Councilwoman Inna Vernikov (District 48) joined other city officials responding to a spike in subway violence. The event, covered by nypost.com, details five consecutive days of stabbings, slashings, and a fatal arson, despite increased NYPD, National Guard, and Guardian Angels patrols. The matter summary reads: 'NYC subways have experienced five consecutive days of violent attacks, including stabbings, slashings, and a fatal arson, despite increased patrols.' Council members Joann Ariola, Robert Holden, and Joe Borelli criticized current safety measures and leadership, calling for stronger action. Mayor Eric Adams backed more police and mental health interventions, while Governor Hochul's National Guard deployment drew fire. City Hall pledged to work with Albany on the Supportive Interventions Act. No direct safety analyst assessment was provided for vulnerable road users.
-
NYC subways have seen attacks for 5 days in a row — despite cops, National Guard and even the Guardian Angels on patrol,
nypost.com,
Published 2025-01-02
Ariola Backs Misguided Bill Slowing Safer Street Changes▸Council bill Intro 103 forces DOT to notify members for every parking change. Critics say it slows life-saving street redesigns. Advocates warn it props up car culture and blocks safer bike lanes. The bill risks more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings.
Intro 103, now before the City Council, would require the Department of Transportation to notify Council members every time a single parking spot is repurposed—for car-share, bike corrals, or Citi Bike docks. The bill, sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, claims residents need notice before losing parking. But DOT and street safety advocates slam the measure as a bureaucratic drag on urgent safety fixes. Council Member Lincoln Restler calls it 'additional hoops and hurdles' for street safety. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso says, 'I don’t know why we entertain any effort to stop or slow-roll safe street design.' Open Plans and StreetsPAC argue the bill props up car dominance and blocks safer, more sustainable streets. The bill could make it harder to move bike infrastructure off sidewalks, risking more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings for pedestrians. Similar bills (Intro 606, Intro 104) face the same criticism.
-
Council Members Want To Be Notified When City Repurposes ‘Their’ Parking,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-18
Robert F Holden Supports Safety Boosting E Bike Registration Bill▸Council Member Holden’s e-bike registration bill faces fierce pushback. Advocates warn it targets immigrants and delivery workers. Business groups fear new costs. Supporters say it brings accountability. Streets remain deadly. Cars still kill most. Debate rages. No easy answers.
Intro. 606, known as Priscilla’s Law, was introduced by Council Member Robert F. Holden of District 30. The bill, debated on December 12, 2024, sits before the City Council. It would require all e-mobility devices not covered by the state DMV to register with the city’s Department of Transportation. The bill’s summary states it aims to increase accountability for e-bike riders after fatal crashes. Holden, the sponsor, cited dangers from unregulated e-vehicles and hit-and-runs. Advocacy groups, including Los Deliveristas Unidos and Open Plans, argue the bill would unfairly criminalize immigrants and delivery workers, and increase police stops for people of color. The NYC Hospitality Alliance warns of new financial and administrative burdens for small businesses. Both sides agree cars cause far more deaths, but the bill’s critics say better street design, not registration, would protect vulnerable road users.
-
Immigrant, hospitality advocacy groups push back on NYC e-bike licensing bill,
amny.com,
Published 2024-12-12
Holden Backs Misguided E-Bike Registration Hurting Safety▸Council Member Holden wants license plates on e-bikes. Lawyers say it’s illegal. The bill could block riders, clash with state law, and open doors to police stops. Critics warn it hurts city goals. The law department stays silent.
Intro 606, a City Council bill introduced by Council Member Bob Holden, would force the Department of Transportation to register e-bikes and issue license plates for a fee. The bill is named after Priscilla Loke, killed by an electric Citi Bike rider. Legal experts Daniel Flanzig, Peter Beadle, and Brandon Chamberlin argue the bill violates state law, which bars cities from imposing fees that restrict the 'free use' of bicycles. They warn it would create barriers to e-bike use and could lead to inconsistent rules across cities. Holden defends the bill as a push for 'accountability and safety.' Critics say it discourages e-bike use and risks police harassment, especially for immigrants. The city Law Department declined comment. The bill’s legal standing and impact on vulnerable road users remain sharply contested.
-
Intro 606 Alert: E-Bike Licensing Bill Is Not Even Legal, Lawyers Say,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-11
SUV Driver With Disability Injured in Queens Crash▸A 67-year-old male driver with a physical disability suffered head injuries and minor bleeding after his SUV struck an object with its left front bumper in Queens. The driver was wearing a lap belt and experienced shock at the scene.
According to the police report, a 67-year-old male driver operating a 2024 Nissan SUV in Queens was injured at 16:27. The vehicle was traveling north and impacted with its left front bumper. The report identifies the driver's physical disability as a contributing factor to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was restrained by a lap belt. Injuries included head trauma and minor bleeding, with the driver reported to be in shock. The report does not cite any failure to yield or other driver errors beyond the physical disability. No pedestrian or cyclist involvement was noted.
SUV Strikes Elderly Pedestrian on Queens Avenue▸A 74-year-old man crossing Metropolitan Avenue outside a crosswalk was struck by a westbound SUV. The impact hit the pedestrian’s head, leaving him semiconscious with minor bleeding. The driver proceeded straight, causing severe injury without yielding.
According to the police report, a 74-year-old male pedestrian was injured after being struck by a Ford SUV traveling westbound on Metropolitan Avenue in Queens around 12:03 AM. The pedestrian was crossing outside a crosswalk when the vehicle's center front end collided with his head, resulting in semiconsciousness and minor bleeding. The report notes the pedestrian’s location as 'Pedestrian Not at Intersection' and action as 'Crossing, No Signal, or Crosswalk.' No specific driver contributing factors were listed, but the collision occurred while the driver was going straight ahead, indicating a failure to yield to a pedestrian in the roadway. The driver was licensed and operating a 2003 SUV. The pedestrian’s injury severity was rated at level 3, highlighting the serious impact of the crash.
2Rear-End Collision in Queens Injures Two▸Two occupants suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on Cooper Avenue. Both drivers were traveling southeast when inattentive driving and following too closely caused impact. Whiplash complaints followed as vehicles collided center-to-center.
According to the police report, a rear-end collision occurred on Cooper Avenue in Queens at 10:13 a.m. Two sedans traveling southeast collided when the driver of the trailing vehicle failed to maintain proper distance and was distracted. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors. Both occupants in the rear vehicle, a 40-year-old male driver and a 40-year-old female passenger, sustained neck injuries described as whiplash. Both were conscious and restrained by lap belts and harnesses at the time of impact. The front vehicle, a 2019 Mercedes sedan, sustained center front end damage, while the rear 2013 Ford sedan was damaged at its center back end. The collision highlights the dangers of driver distraction and tailgating on city streets.
Distracted SUV Hits 10-Year-Old E-Scooter Rider▸A distracted SUV driver struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter on Metropolitan Ave in Queens. The child suffered abrasions and injuries to his lower leg and foot. The SUV showed no damage, while the e-scooter's left front bumper was damaged.
According to the police report, at 17:40 on Metropolitan Ave in Queens, a 2018 SUV traveling north struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter southbound. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor for the crash. The SUV's point of impact was the center front end, while the e-scooter sustained damage to its left front bumper. The boy, who was conscious and not ejected, suffered abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The SUV driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead with four occupants. The e-scooter rider was the sole occupant of his vehicle. No other contributing factors were listed. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving to vulnerable road users like child e-scooter riders.
Int 1105-2024Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
Elderly Pedestrian Hit by Westbound Bike in Queens▸An 84-year-old woman suffered a head contusion after a collision with a westbound bicyclist on 80th Street in Queens. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was confused, contributing to the crash. The bike showed no damage, striking center front.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:49 on 80th Street near 78th Avenue in Queens. An 84-year-old female pedestrian was injured, sustaining a head contusion and classified with injury severity 3. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was noted to have pedestrian error or confusion as a contributing factor. The vehicle involved was a westbound bicycle traveling straight ahead, which struck the pedestrian at the center front end. The bike sustained no damage. The report highlights pedestrian confusion as the contributing factor, with no driver errors cited. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision. This incident underscores the risks posed by pedestrian confusion even when not in the roadway.
Gianaris Supports Safety‑Boosting Penalties for Repeat Reckless Drivers▸Police chases in Astoria’s 114 Precinct have surged. Cyclists and pedestrians pay the price. One cyclist is dead. NYPD ignores its own rules. Dangerous drivers face no real penalty. Officials and residents demand action. The city stalls. Streets stay deadly.
This report covers the sharp rise in high-speed police chases in the NYPD’s 114th Precinct, Astoria, Queens. The article, published October 28, 2024, details community outrage after a cyclist’s death and repeated injuries. NYPD policy says chases should end when risk outweighs reward, but enforcement fails. The Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program, which once forced repeat offenders into safety courses, has expired. Comptroller Brad Lander says, 'Drivers who are repeatedly caught by speed and red-light cameras currently face no consequences other than a fine in the mail. Repeat reckless drivers must be held to account.' State Senator Michael Gianaris calls for stronger penalties, including suspending registrations. The NYPD has not adopted reforms. Residents and advocates demand legislative action and transparency. Without it, vulnerable road users remain at risk.
-
Reckless: The 114 Precinct is an Island of High-Speed Chases In Queens,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-28
Sedan Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A sedan collided with a bicyclist traveling west on Myrtle Avenue near 69 Street in Queens. The bicyclist suffered contusions and bruises but remained conscious. Police cited the sedan driver’s disregard for traffic control as the cause of the crash.
According to the police report, at 8:05 AM in Queens, a 2023 sedan traveling south on 69 Street struck a bicyclist going west on Myrtle Avenue. The point of impact was the sedan's center front end and the bike's right rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 28-year-old male, was injured with contusions and bruises but was conscious and not ejected from the bike. The report identifies 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to obey traffic signals or signs. The bicyclist’s injury severity was moderate, and no contributing factors were attributed to the bicyclist. The sedan driver was licensed and operating the vehicle straight ahead before the collision. This crash highlights the dangers posed by drivers disregarding traffic controls, placing vulnerable road users at risk.
Gianaris Supports Fare Free Buses Amid Safety Concerns▸Governor Hochul stalls congestion pricing, leaving MTA riders in limbo. The pause threatens subway and bus service. Advocates demand any replacement funds boost operations, not highways. Riders need frequent, affordable transit—not more gridlock and pollution.
This editorial, published October 1, 2024, addresses Governor Hochul’s decision to pause congestion pricing and seek alternative funding for the MTA’s $15-billion capital plan. The article states: “If the governor wants to do the MTA and riders a favor, she should use the money she finds to instead boost MTA operations.” Author Samuel Santaella criticizes Hochul’s move, arguing it jeopardizes service for working-class New Yorkers. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and State Senator Michael Gianaris are cited as proponents of fare-free buses, while Riders Alliance pushes for six-minute service. The piece urges Hochul to reject highway expansions and instead invest in frequent, affordable transit. The editorial frames this as a fight for clean air, equity, and safety for all New Yorkers who rely on public transportation.
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OPINION: Any Money Hochul Finds to ‘Replace’ Congestion Pricing Should Fund Fares and Frequency,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-01
Int 0346-2024Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
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File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
Assembly bill A 324 demands complete street design for state- and federally-funded projects. Sponsors push for public guidance. Streets built for people, not just cars. Safety for all hangs in the balance.
Assembly Bill A 324 was introduced on January 8, 2025, now in the sponsorship stage. The bill, titled 'Requires the consideration of complete street design for certain transportation projects which receive federal or state funding,' aims to force planners to consider all users—pedestrians, cyclists, drivers—when building or upgrading roads. Didi Barrett leads as primary sponsor, joined by Rebecca Seawright, Amy Paulin, and many others. The bill also directs the department to publish street design guidance. No safety analyst note yet, but the measure’s intent is clear: streets should protect the most vulnerable, not just move traffic.
- File A 324, Open States, Published 2025-01-08
A 1077Rajkumar co-sponsors bill boosting street safety for all users.▸Assembly bill A 1077 pushes for streets built for people, not just cars. Dozens of lawmakers back safer roads. The bill stands at sponsorship. No vote yet. Vulnerable users wait for action.
Assembly bill A 1077, now in sponsorship, aims to 'enable safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles.' Introduced January 8, 2025, the bill sits in committee. Jonathan Rivera leads as primary sponsor, joined by over 60 co-sponsors including Patrick Burke, Robert C. Carroll, and Catalina Cruz. No votes have been cast. The bill's language centers all road users, not just drivers. No safety analyst has yet assessed its impact on vulnerable road users. The measure signals intent but action remains pending.
-
File A 1077,
Open States,
Published 2025-01-08
Robert F Holden Criticizes Congestion Pricing Despite Safety Boost▸Businesses in Manhattan’s toll zone pass new $9 congestion fee to customers. Councilman Holden calls it a scam tax. Residents pay even if they don’t drive. Gridlock grows near the border. Critics warn of rising costs and slower emergency response.
On January 5, 2025, New York City began enforcing congestion pricing below 60th Street, charging drivers $9 during peak hours. The measure, discussed in the article 'NYC residents slapped with congestion pricing ‘surcharge’ by fed-up companies paying new toll: ‘Hochul inflation’,' has sparked backlash. Queens Councilman Robert F. Holden, representing District 30, condemned the move, stating, 'It’s no surprise that businesses will pass the Congestion Scam Tax on to consumers.' Companies like CompuVoip and Dream Events & Decor now add surcharges for customers in the zone. Holden’s criticism joins that of Bronx Councilwoman Kristy Marmorato and others, who warn of higher costs and increased gridlock. Emergency unions claim response times will suffer. The bill’s impact on vulnerable road users was not assessed.
-
NYC residents slapped with congestion pricing ‘surcharge’ by fed-up companies paying new toll: ‘Hochul inflation’,
nypost.com,
Published 2025-01-05
Ariola Opposes National Guard Supports NYPD Policing Boost▸Five days. Five attacks. Blood on the subway rails. Cops, National Guard, Guardian Angels—none stopped the violence. Council members blast failed safety plans. Riders pay the price. City Hall promises change. Riders wait. Danger rides the rails.
On January 2, 2025, Councilwoman Inna Vernikov (District 48) joined other city officials responding to a spike in subway violence. The event, covered by nypost.com, details five consecutive days of stabbings, slashings, and a fatal arson, despite increased NYPD, National Guard, and Guardian Angels patrols. The matter summary reads: 'NYC subways have experienced five consecutive days of violent attacks, including stabbings, slashings, and a fatal arson, despite increased patrols.' Council members Joann Ariola, Robert Holden, and Joe Borelli criticized current safety measures and leadership, calling for stronger action. Mayor Eric Adams backed more police and mental health interventions, while Governor Hochul's National Guard deployment drew fire. City Hall pledged to work with Albany on the Supportive Interventions Act. No direct safety analyst assessment was provided for vulnerable road users.
-
NYC subways have seen attacks for 5 days in a row — despite cops, National Guard and even the Guardian Angels on patrol,
nypost.com,
Published 2025-01-02
Ariola Backs Misguided Bill Slowing Safer Street Changes▸Council bill Intro 103 forces DOT to notify members for every parking change. Critics say it slows life-saving street redesigns. Advocates warn it props up car culture and blocks safer bike lanes. The bill risks more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings.
Intro 103, now before the City Council, would require the Department of Transportation to notify Council members every time a single parking spot is repurposed—for car-share, bike corrals, or Citi Bike docks. The bill, sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, claims residents need notice before losing parking. But DOT and street safety advocates slam the measure as a bureaucratic drag on urgent safety fixes. Council Member Lincoln Restler calls it 'additional hoops and hurdles' for street safety. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso says, 'I don’t know why we entertain any effort to stop or slow-roll safe street design.' Open Plans and StreetsPAC argue the bill props up car dominance and blocks safer, more sustainable streets. The bill could make it harder to move bike infrastructure off sidewalks, risking more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings for pedestrians. Similar bills (Intro 606, Intro 104) face the same criticism.
-
Council Members Want To Be Notified When City Repurposes ‘Their’ Parking,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-18
Robert F Holden Supports Safety Boosting E Bike Registration Bill▸Council Member Holden’s e-bike registration bill faces fierce pushback. Advocates warn it targets immigrants and delivery workers. Business groups fear new costs. Supporters say it brings accountability. Streets remain deadly. Cars still kill most. Debate rages. No easy answers.
Intro. 606, known as Priscilla’s Law, was introduced by Council Member Robert F. Holden of District 30. The bill, debated on December 12, 2024, sits before the City Council. It would require all e-mobility devices not covered by the state DMV to register with the city’s Department of Transportation. The bill’s summary states it aims to increase accountability for e-bike riders after fatal crashes. Holden, the sponsor, cited dangers from unregulated e-vehicles and hit-and-runs. Advocacy groups, including Los Deliveristas Unidos and Open Plans, argue the bill would unfairly criminalize immigrants and delivery workers, and increase police stops for people of color. The NYC Hospitality Alliance warns of new financial and administrative burdens for small businesses. Both sides agree cars cause far more deaths, but the bill’s critics say better street design, not registration, would protect vulnerable road users.
-
Immigrant, hospitality advocacy groups push back on NYC e-bike licensing bill,
amny.com,
Published 2024-12-12
Holden Backs Misguided E-Bike Registration Hurting Safety▸Council Member Holden wants license plates on e-bikes. Lawyers say it’s illegal. The bill could block riders, clash with state law, and open doors to police stops. Critics warn it hurts city goals. The law department stays silent.
Intro 606, a City Council bill introduced by Council Member Bob Holden, would force the Department of Transportation to register e-bikes and issue license plates for a fee. The bill is named after Priscilla Loke, killed by an electric Citi Bike rider. Legal experts Daniel Flanzig, Peter Beadle, and Brandon Chamberlin argue the bill violates state law, which bars cities from imposing fees that restrict the 'free use' of bicycles. They warn it would create barriers to e-bike use and could lead to inconsistent rules across cities. Holden defends the bill as a push for 'accountability and safety.' Critics say it discourages e-bike use and risks police harassment, especially for immigrants. The city Law Department declined comment. The bill’s legal standing and impact on vulnerable road users remain sharply contested.
-
Intro 606 Alert: E-Bike Licensing Bill Is Not Even Legal, Lawyers Say,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-11
SUV Driver With Disability Injured in Queens Crash▸A 67-year-old male driver with a physical disability suffered head injuries and minor bleeding after his SUV struck an object with its left front bumper in Queens. The driver was wearing a lap belt and experienced shock at the scene.
According to the police report, a 67-year-old male driver operating a 2024 Nissan SUV in Queens was injured at 16:27. The vehicle was traveling north and impacted with its left front bumper. The report identifies the driver's physical disability as a contributing factor to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was restrained by a lap belt. Injuries included head trauma and minor bleeding, with the driver reported to be in shock. The report does not cite any failure to yield or other driver errors beyond the physical disability. No pedestrian or cyclist involvement was noted.
SUV Strikes Elderly Pedestrian on Queens Avenue▸A 74-year-old man crossing Metropolitan Avenue outside a crosswalk was struck by a westbound SUV. The impact hit the pedestrian’s head, leaving him semiconscious with minor bleeding. The driver proceeded straight, causing severe injury without yielding.
According to the police report, a 74-year-old male pedestrian was injured after being struck by a Ford SUV traveling westbound on Metropolitan Avenue in Queens around 12:03 AM. The pedestrian was crossing outside a crosswalk when the vehicle's center front end collided with his head, resulting in semiconsciousness and minor bleeding. The report notes the pedestrian’s location as 'Pedestrian Not at Intersection' and action as 'Crossing, No Signal, or Crosswalk.' No specific driver contributing factors were listed, but the collision occurred while the driver was going straight ahead, indicating a failure to yield to a pedestrian in the roadway. The driver was licensed and operating a 2003 SUV. The pedestrian’s injury severity was rated at level 3, highlighting the serious impact of the crash.
2Rear-End Collision in Queens Injures Two▸Two occupants suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on Cooper Avenue. Both drivers were traveling southeast when inattentive driving and following too closely caused impact. Whiplash complaints followed as vehicles collided center-to-center.
According to the police report, a rear-end collision occurred on Cooper Avenue in Queens at 10:13 a.m. Two sedans traveling southeast collided when the driver of the trailing vehicle failed to maintain proper distance and was distracted. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors. Both occupants in the rear vehicle, a 40-year-old male driver and a 40-year-old female passenger, sustained neck injuries described as whiplash. Both were conscious and restrained by lap belts and harnesses at the time of impact. The front vehicle, a 2019 Mercedes sedan, sustained center front end damage, while the rear 2013 Ford sedan was damaged at its center back end. The collision highlights the dangers of driver distraction and tailgating on city streets.
Distracted SUV Hits 10-Year-Old E-Scooter Rider▸A distracted SUV driver struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter on Metropolitan Ave in Queens. The child suffered abrasions and injuries to his lower leg and foot. The SUV showed no damage, while the e-scooter's left front bumper was damaged.
According to the police report, at 17:40 on Metropolitan Ave in Queens, a 2018 SUV traveling north struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter southbound. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor for the crash. The SUV's point of impact was the center front end, while the e-scooter sustained damage to its left front bumper. The boy, who was conscious and not ejected, suffered abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The SUV driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead with four occupants. The e-scooter rider was the sole occupant of his vehicle. No other contributing factors were listed. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving to vulnerable road users like child e-scooter riders.
Int 1105-2024Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
Elderly Pedestrian Hit by Westbound Bike in Queens▸An 84-year-old woman suffered a head contusion after a collision with a westbound bicyclist on 80th Street in Queens. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was confused, contributing to the crash. The bike showed no damage, striking center front.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:49 on 80th Street near 78th Avenue in Queens. An 84-year-old female pedestrian was injured, sustaining a head contusion and classified with injury severity 3. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was noted to have pedestrian error or confusion as a contributing factor. The vehicle involved was a westbound bicycle traveling straight ahead, which struck the pedestrian at the center front end. The bike sustained no damage. The report highlights pedestrian confusion as the contributing factor, with no driver errors cited. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision. This incident underscores the risks posed by pedestrian confusion even when not in the roadway.
Gianaris Supports Safety‑Boosting Penalties for Repeat Reckless Drivers▸Police chases in Astoria’s 114 Precinct have surged. Cyclists and pedestrians pay the price. One cyclist is dead. NYPD ignores its own rules. Dangerous drivers face no real penalty. Officials and residents demand action. The city stalls. Streets stay deadly.
This report covers the sharp rise in high-speed police chases in the NYPD’s 114th Precinct, Astoria, Queens. The article, published October 28, 2024, details community outrage after a cyclist’s death and repeated injuries. NYPD policy says chases should end when risk outweighs reward, but enforcement fails. The Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program, which once forced repeat offenders into safety courses, has expired. Comptroller Brad Lander says, 'Drivers who are repeatedly caught by speed and red-light cameras currently face no consequences other than a fine in the mail. Repeat reckless drivers must be held to account.' State Senator Michael Gianaris calls for stronger penalties, including suspending registrations. The NYPD has not adopted reforms. Residents and advocates demand legislative action and transparency. Without it, vulnerable road users remain at risk.
-
Reckless: The 114 Precinct is an Island of High-Speed Chases In Queens,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-28
Sedan Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A sedan collided with a bicyclist traveling west on Myrtle Avenue near 69 Street in Queens. The bicyclist suffered contusions and bruises but remained conscious. Police cited the sedan driver’s disregard for traffic control as the cause of the crash.
According to the police report, at 8:05 AM in Queens, a 2023 sedan traveling south on 69 Street struck a bicyclist going west on Myrtle Avenue. The point of impact was the sedan's center front end and the bike's right rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 28-year-old male, was injured with contusions and bruises but was conscious and not ejected from the bike. The report identifies 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to obey traffic signals or signs. The bicyclist’s injury severity was moderate, and no contributing factors were attributed to the bicyclist. The sedan driver was licensed and operating the vehicle straight ahead before the collision. This crash highlights the dangers posed by drivers disregarding traffic controls, placing vulnerable road users at risk.
Gianaris Supports Fare Free Buses Amid Safety Concerns▸Governor Hochul stalls congestion pricing, leaving MTA riders in limbo. The pause threatens subway and bus service. Advocates demand any replacement funds boost operations, not highways. Riders need frequent, affordable transit—not more gridlock and pollution.
This editorial, published October 1, 2024, addresses Governor Hochul’s decision to pause congestion pricing and seek alternative funding for the MTA’s $15-billion capital plan. The article states: “If the governor wants to do the MTA and riders a favor, she should use the money she finds to instead boost MTA operations.” Author Samuel Santaella criticizes Hochul’s move, arguing it jeopardizes service for working-class New Yorkers. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and State Senator Michael Gianaris are cited as proponents of fare-free buses, while Riders Alliance pushes for six-minute service. The piece urges Hochul to reject highway expansions and instead invest in frequent, affordable transit. The editorial frames this as a fight for clean air, equity, and safety for all New Yorkers who rely on public transportation.
-
OPINION: Any Money Hochul Finds to ‘Replace’ Congestion Pricing Should Fund Fares and Frequency,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-01
Int 0346-2024Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
Assembly bill A 1077 pushes for streets built for people, not just cars. Dozens of lawmakers back safer roads. The bill stands at sponsorship. No vote yet. Vulnerable users wait for action.
Assembly bill A 1077, now in sponsorship, aims to 'enable safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles.' Introduced January 8, 2025, the bill sits in committee. Jonathan Rivera leads as primary sponsor, joined by over 60 co-sponsors including Patrick Burke, Robert C. Carroll, and Catalina Cruz. No votes have been cast. The bill's language centers all road users, not just drivers. No safety analyst has yet assessed its impact on vulnerable road users. The measure signals intent but action remains pending.
- File A 1077, Open States, Published 2025-01-08
Robert F Holden Criticizes Congestion Pricing Despite Safety Boost▸Businesses in Manhattan’s toll zone pass new $9 congestion fee to customers. Councilman Holden calls it a scam tax. Residents pay even if they don’t drive. Gridlock grows near the border. Critics warn of rising costs and slower emergency response.
On January 5, 2025, New York City began enforcing congestion pricing below 60th Street, charging drivers $9 during peak hours. The measure, discussed in the article 'NYC residents slapped with congestion pricing ‘surcharge’ by fed-up companies paying new toll: ‘Hochul inflation’,' has sparked backlash. Queens Councilman Robert F. Holden, representing District 30, condemned the move, stating, 'It’s no surprise that businesses will pass the Congestion Scam Tax on to consumers.' Companies like CompuVoip and Dream Events & Decor now add surcharges for customers in the zone. Holden’s criticism joins that of Bronx Councilwoman Kristy Marmorato and others, who warn of higher costs and increased gridlock. Emergency unions claim response times will suffer. The bill’s impact on vulnerable road users was not assessed.
-
NYC residents slapped with congestion pricing ‘surcharge’ by fed-up companies paying new toll: ‘Hochul inflation’,
nypost.com,
Published 2025-01-05
Ariola Opposes National Guard Supports NYPD Policing Boost▸Five days. Five attacks. Blood on the subway rails. Cops, National Guard, Guardian Angels—none stopped the violence. Council members blast failed safety plans. Riders pay the price. City Hall promises change. Riders wait. Danger rides the rails.
On January 2, 2025, Councilwoman Inna Vernikov (District 48) joined other city officials responding to a spike in subway violence. The event, covered by nypost.com, details five consecutive days of stabbings, slashings, and a fatal arson, despite increased NYPD, National Guard, and Guardian Angels patrols. The matter summary reads: 'NYC subways have experienced five consecutive days of violent attacks, including stabbings, slashings, and a fatal arson, despite increased patrols.' Council members Joann Ariola, Robert Holden, and Joe Borelli criticized current safety measures and leadership, calling for stronger action. Mayor Eric Adams backed more police and mental health interventions, while Governor Hochul's National Guard deployment drew fire. City Hall pledged to work with Albany on the Supportive Interventions Act. No direct safety analyst assessment was provided for vulnerable road users.
-
NYC subways have seen attacks for 5 days in a row — despite cops, National Guard and even the Guardian Angels on patrol,
nypost.com,
Published 2025-01-02
Ariola Backs Misguided Bill Slowing Safer Street Changes▸Council bill Intro 103 forces DOT to notify members for every parking change. Critics say it slows life-saving street redesigns. Advocates warn it props up car culture and blocks safer bike lanes. The bill risks more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings.
Intro 103, now before the City Council, would require the Department of Transportation to notify Council members every time a single parking spot is repurposed—for car-share, bike corrals, or Citi Bike docks. The bill, sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, claims residents need notice before losing parking. But DOT and street safety advocates slam the measure as a bureaucratic drag on urgent safety fixes. Council Member Lincoln Restler calls it 'additional hoops and hurdles' for street safety. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso says, 'I don’t know why we entertain any effort to stop or slow-roll safe street design.' Open Plans and StreetsPAC argue the bill props up car dominance and blocks safer, more sustainable streets. The bill could make it harder to move bike infrastructure off sidewalks, risking more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings for pedestrians. Similar bills (Intro 606, Intro 104) face the same criticism.
-
Council Members Want To Be Notified When City Repurposes ‘Their’ Parking,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-18
Robert F Holden Supports Safety Boosting E Bike Registration Bill▸Council Member Holden’s e-bike registration bill faces fierce pushback. Advocates warn it targets immigrants and delivery workers. Business groups fear new costs. Supporters say it brings accountability. Streets remain deadly. Cars still kill most. Debate rages. No easy answers.
Intro. 606, known as Priscilla’s Law, was introduced by Council Member Robert F. Holden of District 30. The bill, debated on December 12, 2024, sits before the City Council. It would require all e-mobility devices not covered by the state DMV to register with the city’s Department of Transportation. The bill’s summary states it aims to increase accountability for e-bike riders after fatal crashes. Holden, the sponsor, cited dangers from unregulated e-vehicles and hit-and-runs. Advocacy groups, including Los Deliveristas Unidos and Open Plans, argue the bill would unfairly criminalize immigrants and delivery workers, and increase police stops for people of color. The NYC Hospitality Alliance warns of new financial and administrative burdens for small businesses. Both sides agree cars cause far more deaths, but the bill’s critics say better street design, not registration, would protect vulnerable road users.
-
Immigrant, hospitality advocacy groups push back on NYC e-bike licensing bill,
amny.com,
Published 2024-12-12
Holden Backs Misguided E-Bike Registration Hurting Safety▸Council Member Holden wants license plates on e-bikes. Lawyers say it’s illegal. The bill could block riders, clash with state law, and open doors to police stops. Critics warn it hurts city goals. The law department stays silent.
Intro 606, a City Council bill introduced by Council Member Bob Holden, would force the Department of Transportation to register e-bikes and issue license plates for a fee. The bill is named after Priscilla Loke, killed by an electric Citi Bike rider. Legal experts Daniel Flanzig, Peter Beadle, and Brandon Chamberlin argue the bill violates state law, which bars cities from imposing fees that restrict the 'free use' of bicycles. They warn it would create barriers to e-bike use and could lead to inconsistent rules across cities. Holden defends the bill as a push for 'accountability and safety.' Critics say it discourages e-bike use and risks police harassment, especially for immigrants. The city Law Department declined comment. The bill’s legal standing and impact on vulnerable road users remain sharply contested.
-
Intro 606 Alert: E-Bike Licensing Bill Is Not Even Legal, Lawyers Say,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-11
SUV Driver With Disability Injured in Queens Crash▸A 67-year-old male driver with a physical disability suffered head injuries and minor bleeding after his SUV struck an object with its left front bumper in Queens. The driver was wearing a lap belt and experienced shock at the scene.
According to the police report, a 67-year-old male driver operating a 2024 Nissan SUV in Queens was injured at 16:27. The vehicle was traveling north and impacted with its left front bumper. The report identifies the driver's physical disability as a contributing factor to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was restrained by a lap belt. Injuries included head trauma and minor bleeding, with the driver reported to be in shock. The report does not cite any failure to yield or other driver errors beyond the physical disability. No pedestrian or cyclist involvement was noted.
SUV Strikes Elderly Pedestrian on Queens Avenue▸A 74-year-old man crossing Metropolitan Avenue outside a crosswalk was struck by a westbound SUV. The impact hit the pedestrian’s head, leaving him semiconscious with minor bleeding. The driver proceeded straight, causing severe injury without yielding.
According to the police report, a 74-year-old male pedestrian was injured after being struck by a Ford SUV traveling westbound on Metropolitan Avenue in Queens around 12:03 AM. The pedestrian was crossing outside a crosswalk when the vehicle's center front end collided with his head, resulting in semiconsciousness and minor bleeding. The report notes the pedestrian’s location as 'Pedestrian Not at Intersection' and action as 'Crossing, No Signal, or Crosswalk.' No specific driver contributing factors were listed, but the collision occurred while the driver was going straight ahead, indicating a failure to yield to a pedestrian in the roadway. The driver was licensed and operating a 2003 SUV. The pedestrian’s injury severity was rated at level 3, highlighting the serious impact of the crash.
2Rear-End Collision in Queens Injures Two▸Two occupants suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on Cooper Avenue. Both drivers were traveling southeast when inattentive driving and following too closely caused impact. Whiplash complaints followed as vehicles collided center-to-center.
According to the police report, a rear-end collision occurred on Cooper Avenue in Queens at 10:13 a.m. Two sedans traveling southeast collided when the driver of the trailing vehicle failed to maintain proper distance and was distracted. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors. Both occupants in the rear vehicle, a 40-year-old male driver and a 40-year-old female passenger, sustained neck injuries described as whiplash. Both were conscious and restrained by lap belts and harnesses at the time of impact. The front vehicle, a 2019 Mercedes sedan, sustained center front end damage, while the rear 2013 Ford sedan was damaged at its center back end. The collision highlights the dangers of driver distraction and tailgating on city streets.
Distracted SUV Hits 10-Year-Old E-Scooter Rider▸A distracted SUV driver struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter on Metropolitan Ave in Queens. The child suffered abrasions and injuries to his lower leg and foot. The SUV showed no damage, while the e-scooter's left front bumper was damaged.
According to the police report, at 17:40 on Metropolitan Ave in Queens, a 2018 SUV traveling north struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter southbound. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor for the crash. The SUV's point of impact was the center front end, while the e-scooter sustained damage to its left front bumper. The boy, who was conscious and not ejected, suffered abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The SUV driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead with four occupants. The e-scooter rider was the sole occupant of his vehicle. No other contributing factors were listed. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving to vulnerable road users like child e-scooter riders.
Int 1105-2024Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
Elderly Pedestrian Hit by Westbound Bike in Queens▸An 84-year-old woman suffered a head contusion after a collision with a westbound bicyclist on 80th Street in Queens. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was confused, contributing to the crash. The bike showed no damage, striking center front.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:49 on 80th Street near 78th Avenue in Queens. An 84-year-old female pedestrian was injured, sustaining a head contusion and classified with injury severity 3. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was noted to have pedestrian error or confusion as a contributing factor. The vehicle involved was a westbound bicycle traveling straight ahead, which struck the pedestrian at the center front end. The bike sustained no damage. The report highlights pedestrian confusion as the contributing factor, with no driver errors cited. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision. This incident underscores the risks posed by pedestrian confusion even when not in the roadway.
Gianaris Supports Safety‑Boosting Penalties for Repeat Reckless Drivers▸Police chases in Astoria’s 114 Precinct have surged. Cyclists and pedestrians pay the price. One cyclist is dead. NYPD ignores its own rules. Dangerous drivers face no real penalty. Officials and residents demand action. The city stalls. Streets stay deadly.
This report covers the sharp rise in high-speed police chases in the NYPD’s 114th Precinct, Astoria, Queens. The article, published October 28, 2024, details community outrage after a cyclist’s death and repeated injuries. NYPD policy says chases should end when risk outweighs reward, but enforcement fails. The Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program, which once forced repeat offenders into safety courses, has expired. Comptroller Brad Lander says, 'Drivers who are repeatedly caught by speed and red-light cameras currently face no consequences other than a fine in the mail. Repeat reckless drivers must be held to account.' State Senator Michael Gianaris calls for stronger penalties, including suspending registrations. The NYPD has not adopted reforms. Residents and advocates demand legislative action and transparency. Without it, vulnerable road users remain at risk.
-
Reckless: The 114 Precinct is an Island of High-Speed Chases In Queens,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-28
Sedan Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A sedan collided with a bicyclist traveling west on Myrtle Avenue near 69 Street in Queens. The bicyclist suffered contusions and bruises but remained conscious. Police cited the sedan driver’s disregard for traffic control as the cause of the crash.
According to the police report, at 8:05 AM in Queens, a 2023 sedan traveling south on 69 Street struck a bicyclist going west on Myrtle Avenue. The point of impact was the sedan's center front end and the bike's right rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 28-year-old male, was injured with contusions and bruises but was conscious and not ejected from the bike. The report identifies 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to obey traffic signals or signs. The bicyclist’s injury severity was moderate, and no contributing factors were attributed to the bicyclist. The sedan driver was licensed and operating the vehicle straight ahead before the collision. This crash highlights the dangers posed by drivers disregarding traffic controls, placing vulnerable road users at risk.
Gianaris Supports Fare Free Buses Amid Safety Concerns▸Governor Hochul stalls congestion pricing, leaving MTA riders in limbo. The pause threatens subway and bus service. Advocates demand any replacement funds boost operations, not highways. Riders need frequent, affordable transit—not more gridlock and pollution.
This editorial, published October 1, 2024, addresses Governor Hochul’s decision to pause congestion pricing and seek alternative funding for the MTA’s $15-billion capital plan. The article states: “If the governor wants to do the MTA and riders a favor, she should use the money she finds to instead boost MTA operations.” Author Samuel Santaella criticizes Hochul’s move, arguing it jeopardizes service for working-class New Yorkers. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and State Senator Michael Gianaris are cited as proponents of fare-free buses, while Riders Alliance pushes for six-minute service. The piece urges Hochul to reject highway expansions and instead invest in frequent, affordable transit. The editorial frames this as a fight for clean air, equity, and safety for all New Yorkers who rely on public transportation.
-
OPINION: Any Money Hochul Finds to ‘Replace’ Congestion Pricing Should Fund Fares and Frequency,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-01
Int 0346-2024Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
Businesses in Manhattan’s toll zone pass new $9 congestion fee to customers. Councilman Holden calls it a scam tax. Residents pay even if they don’t drive. Gridlock grows near the border. Critics warn of rising costs and slower emergency response.
On January 5, 2025, New York City began enforcing congestion pricing below 60th Street, charging drivers $9 during peak hours. The measure, discussed in the article 'NYC residents slapped with congestion pricing ‘surcharge’ by fed-up companies paying new toll: ‘Hochul inflation’,' has sparked backlash. Queens Councilman Robert F. Holden, representing District 30, condemned the move, stating, 'It’s no surprise that businesses will pass the Congestion Scam Tax on to consumers.' Companies like CompuVoip and Dream Events & Decor now add surcharges for customers in the zone. Holden’s criticism joins that of Bronx Councilwoman Kristy Marmorato and others, who warn of higher costs and increased gridlock. Emergency unions claim response times will suffer. The bill’s impact on vulnerable road users was not assessed.
- NYC residents slapped with congestion pricing ‘surcharge’ by fed-up companies paying new toll: ‘Hochul inflation’, nypost.com, Published 2025-01-05
Ariola Opposes National Guard Supports NYPD Policing Boost▸Five days. Five attacks. Blood on the subway rails. Cops, National Guard, Guardian Angels—none stopped the violence. Council members blast failed safety plans. Riders pay the price. City Hall promises change. Riders wait. Danger rides the rails.
On January 2, 2025, Councilwoman Inna Vernikov (District 48) joined other city officials responding to a spike in subway violence. The event, covered by nypost.com, details five consecutive days of stabbings, slashings, and a fatal arson, despite increased NYPD, National Guard, and Guardian Angels patrols. The matter summary reads: 'NYC subways have experienced five consecutive days of violent attacks, including stabbings, slashings, and a fatal arson, despite increased patrols.' Council members Joann Ariola, Robert Holden, and Joe Borelli criticized current safety measures and leadership, calling for stronger action. Mayor Eric Adams backed more police and mental health interventions, while Governor Hochul's National Guard deployment drew fire. City Hall pledged to work with Albany on the Supportive Interventions Act. No direct safety analyst assessment was provided for vulnerable road users.
-
NYC subways have seen attacks for 5 days in a row — despite cops, National Guard and even the Guardian Angels on patrol,
nypost.com,
Published 2025-01-02
Ariola Backs Misguided Bill Slowing Safer Street Changes▸Council bill Intro 103 forces DOT to notify members for every parking change. Critics say it slows life-saving street redesigns. Advocates warn it props up car culture and blocks safer bike lanes. The bill risks more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings.
Intro 103, now before the City Council, would require the Department of Transportation to notify Council members every time a single parking spot is repurposed—for car-share, bike corrals, or Citi Bike docks. The bill, sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, claims residents need notice before losing parking. But DOT and street safety advocates slam the measure as a bureaucratic drag on urgent safety fixes. Council Member Lincoln Restler calls it 'additional hoops and hurdles' for street safety. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso says, 'I don’t know why we entertain any effort to stop or slow-roll safe street design.' Open Plans and StreetsPAC argue the bill props up car dominance and blocks safer, more sustainable streets. The bill could make it harder to move bike infrastructure off sidewalks, risking more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings for pedestrians. Similar bills (Intro 606, Intro 104) face the same criticism.
-
Council Members Want To Be Notified When City Repurposes ‘Their’ Parking,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-18
Robert F Holden Supports Safety Boosting E Bike Registration Bill▸Council Member Holden’s e-bike registration bill faces fierce pushback. Advocates warn it targets immigrants and delivery workers. Business groups fear new costs. Supporters say it brings accountability. Streets remain deadly. Cars still kill most. Debate rages. No easy answers.
Intro. 606, known as Priscilla’s Law, was introduced by Council Member Robert F. Holden of District 30. The bill, debated on December 12, 2024, sits before the City Council. It would require all e-mobility devices not covered by the state DMV to register with the city’s Department of Transportation. The bill’s summary states it aims to increase accountability for e-bike riders after fatal crashes. Holden, the sponsor, cited dangers from unregulated e-vehicles and hit-and-runs. Advocacy groups, including Los Deliveristas Unidos and Open Plans, argue the bill would unfairly criminalize immigrants and delivery workers, and increase police stops for people of color. The NYC Hospitality Alliance warns of new financial and administrative burdens for small businesses. Both sides agree cars cause far more deaths, but the bill’s critics say better street design, not registration, would protect vulnerable road users.
-
Immigrant, hospitality advocacy groups push back on NYC e-bike licensing bill,
amny.com,
Published 2024-12-12
Holden Backs Misguided E-Bike Registration Hurting Safety▸Council Member Holden wants license plates on e-bikes. Lawyers say it’s illegal. The bill could block riders, clash with state law, and open doors to police stops. Critics warn it hurts city goals. The law department stays silent.
Intro 606, a City Council bill introduced by Council Member Bob Holden, would force the Department of Transportation to register e-bikes and issue license plates for a fee. The bill is named after Priscilla Loke, killed by an electric Citi Bike rider. Legal experts Daniel Flanzig, Peter Beadle, and Brandon Chamberlin argue the bill violates state law, which bars cities from imposing fees that restrict the 'free use' of bicycles. They warn it would create barriers to e-bike use and could lead to inconsistent rules across cities. Holden defends the bill as a push for 'accountability and safety.' Critics say it discourages e-bike use and risks police harassment, especially for immigrants. The city Law Department declined comment. The bill’s legal standing and impact on vulnerable road users remain sharply contested.
-
Intro 606 Alert: E-Bike Licensing Bill Is Not Even Legal, Lawyers Say,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-11
SUV Driver With Disability Injured in Queens Crash▸A 67-year-old male driver with a physical disability suffered head injuries and minor bleeding after his SUV struck an object with its left front bumper in Queens. The driver was wearing a lap belt and experienced shock at the scene.
According to the police report, a 67-year-old male driver operating a 2024 Nissan SUV in Queens was injured at 16:27. The vehicle was traveling north and impacted with its left front bumper. The report identifies the driver's physical disability as a contributing factor to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was restrained by a lap belt. Injuries included head trauma and minor bleeding, with the driver reported to be in shock. The report does not cite any failure to yield or other driver errors beyond the physical disability. No pedestrian or cyclist involvement was noted.
SUV Strikes Elderly Pedestrian on Queens Avenue▸A 74-year-old man crossing Metropolitan Avenue outside a crosswalk was struck by a westbound SUV. The impact hit the pedestrian’s head, leaving him semiconscious with minor bleeding. The driver proceeded straight, causing severe injury without yielding.
According to the police report, a 74-year-old male pedestrian was injured after being struck by a Ford SUV traveling westbound on Metropolitan Avenue in Queens around 12:03 AM. The pedestrian was crossing outside a crosswalk when the vehicle's center front end collided with his head, resulting in semiconsciousness and minor bleeding. The report notes the pedestrian’s location as 'Pedestrian Not at Intersection' and action as 'Crossing, No Signal, or Crosswalk.' No specific driver contributing factors were listed, but the collision occurred while the driver was going straight ahead, indicating a failure to yield to a pedestrian in the roadway. The driver was licensed and operating a 2003 SUV. The pedestrian’s injury severity was rated at level 3, highlighting the serious impact of the crash.
2Rear-End Collision in Queens Injures Two▸Two occupants suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on Cooper Avenue. Both drivers were traveling southeast when inattentive driving and following too closely caused impact. Whiplash complaints followed as vehicles collided center-to-center.
According to the police report, a rear-end collision occurred on Cooper Avenue in Queens at 10:13 a.m. Two sedans traveling southeast collided when the driver of the trailing vehicle failed to maintain proper distance and was distracted. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors. Both occupants in the rear vehicle, a 40-year-old male driver and a 40-year-old female passenger, sustained neck injuries described as whiplash. Both were conscious and restrained by lap belts and harnesses at the time of impact. The front vehicle, a 2019 Mercedes sedan, sustained center front end damage, while the rear 2013 Ford sedan was damaged at its center back end. The collision highlights the dangers of driver distraction and tailgating on city streets.
Distracted SUV Hits 10-Year-Old E-Scooter Rider▸A distracted SUV driver struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter on Metropolitan Ave in Queens. The child suffered abrasions and injuries to his lower leg and foot. The SUV showed no damage, while the e-scooter's left front bumper was damaged.
According to the police report, at 17:40 on Metropolitan Ave in Queens, a 2018 SUV traveling north struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter southbound. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor for the crash. The SUV's point of impact was the center front end, while the e-scooter sustained damage to its left front bumper. The boy, who was conscious and not ejected, suffered abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The SUV driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead with four occupants. The e-scooter rider was the sole occupant of his vehicle. No other contributing factors were listed. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving to vulnerable road users like child e-scooter riders.
Int 1105-2024Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
Elderly Pedestrian Hit by Westbound Bike in Queens▸An 84-year-old woman suffered a head contusion after a collision with a westbound bicyclist on 80th Street in Queens. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was confused, contributing to the crash. The bike showed no damage, striking center front.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:49 on 80th Street near 78th Avenue in Queens. An 84-year-old female pedestrian was injured, sustaining a head contusion and classified with injury severity 3. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was noted to have pedestrian error or confusion as a contributing factor. The vehicle involved was a westbound bicycle traveling straight ahead, which struck the pedestrian at the center front end. The bike sustained no damage. The report highlights pedestrian confusion as the contributing factor, with no driver errors cited. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision. This incident underscores the risks posed by pedestrian confusion even when not in the roadway.
Gianaris Supports Safety‑Boosting Penalties for Repeat Reckless Drivers▸Police chases in Astoria’s 114 Precinct have surged. Cyclists and pedestrians pay the price. One cyclist is dead. NYPD ignores its own rules. Dangerous drivers face no real penalty. Officials and residents demand action. The city stalls. Streets stay deadly.
This report covers the sharp rise in high-speed police chases in the NYPD’s 114th Precinct, Astoria, Queens. The article, published October 28, 2024, details community outrage after a cyclist’s death and repeated injuries. NYPD policy says chases should end when risk outweighs reward, but enforcement fails. The Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program, which once forced repeat offenders into safety courses, has expired. Comptroller Brad Lander says, 'Drivers who are repeatedly caught by speed and red-light cameras currently face no consequences other than a fine in the mail. Repeat reckless drivers must be held to account.' State Senator Michael Gianaris calls for stronger penalties, including suspending registrations. The NYPD has not adopted reforms. Residents and advocates demand legislative action and transparency. Without it, vulnerable road users remain at risk.
-
Reckless: The 114 Precinct is an Island of High-Speed Chases In Queens,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-28
Sedan Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A sedan collided with a bicyclist traveling west on Myrtle Avenue near 69 Street in Queens. The bicyclist suffered contusions and bruises but remained conscious. Police cited the sedan driver’s disregard for traffic control as the cause of the crash.
According to the police report, at 8:05 AM in Queens, a 2023 sedan traveling south on 69 Street struck a bicyclist going west on Myrtle Avenue. The point of impact was the sedan's center front end and the bike's right rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 28-year-old male, was injured with contusions and bruises but was conscious and not ejected from the bike. The report identifies 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to obey traffic signals or signs. The bicyclist’s injury severity was moderate, and no contributing factors were attributed to the bicyclist. The sedan driver was licensed and operating the vehicle straight ahead before the collision. This crash highlights the dangers posed by drivers disregarding traffic controls, placing vulnerable road users at risk.
Gianaris Supports Fare Free Buses Amid Safety Concerns▸Governor Hochul stalls congestion pricing, leaving MTA riders in limbo. The pause threatens subway and bus service. Advocates demand any replacement funds boost operations, not highways. Riders need frequent, affordable transit—not more gridlock and pollution.
This editorial, published October 1, 2024, addresses Governor Hochul’s decision to pause congestion pricing and seek alternative funding for the MTA’s $15-billion capital plan. The article states: “If the governor wants to do the MTA and riders a favor, she should use the money she finds to instead boost MTA operations.” Author Samuel Santaella criticizes Hochul’s move, arguing it jeopardizes service for working-class New Yorkers. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and State Senator Michael Gianaris are cited as proponents of fare-free buses, while Riders Alliance pushes for six-minute service. The piece urges Hochul to reject highway expansions and instead invest in frequent, affordable transit. The editorial frames this as a fight for clean air, equity, and safety for all New Yorkers who rely on public transportation.
-
OPINION: Any Money Hochul Finds to ‘Replace’ Congestion Pricing Should Fund Fares and Frequency,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-01
Int 0346-2024Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
Five days. Five attacks. Blood on the subway rails. Cops, National Guard, Guardian Angels—none stopped the violence. Council members blast failed safety plans. Riders pay the price. City Hall promises change. Riders wait. Danger rides the rails.
On January 2, 2025, Councilwoman Inna Vernikov (District 48) joined other city officials responding to a spike in subway violence. The event, covered by nypost.com, details five consecutive days of stabbings, slashings, and a fatal arson, despite increased NYPD, National Guard, and Guardian Angels patrols. The matter summary reads: 'NYC subways have experienced five consecutive days of violent attacks, including stabbings, slashings, and a fatal arson, despite increased patrols.' Council members Joann Ariola, Robert Holden, and Joe Borelli criticized current safety measures and leadership, calling for stronger action. Mayor Eric Adams backed more police and mental health interventions, while Governor Hochul's National Guard deployment drew fire. City Hall pledged to work with Albany on the Supportive Interventions Act. No direct safety analyst assessment was provided for vulnerable road users.
- NYC subways have seen attacks for 5 days in a row — despite cops, National Guard and even the Guardian Angels on patrol, nypost.com, Published 2025-01-02
Ariola Backs Misguided Bill Slowing Safer Street Changes▸Council bill Intro 103 forces DOT to notify members for every parking change. Critics say it slows life-saving street redesigns. Advocates warn it props up car culture and blocks safer bike lanes. The bill risks more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings.
Intro 103, now before the City Council, would require the Department of Transportation to notify Council members every time a single parking spot is repurposed—for car-share, bike corrals, or Citi Bike docks. The bill, sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, claims residents need notice before losing parking. But DOT and street safety advocates slam the measure as a bureaucratic drag on urgent safety fixes. Council Member Lincoln Restler calls it 'additional hoops and hurdles' for street safety. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso says, 'I don’t know why we entertain any effort to stop or slow-roll safe street design.' Open Plans and StreetsPAC argue the bill props up car dominance and blocks safer, more sustainable streets. The bill could make it harder to move bike infrastructure off sidewalks, risking more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings for pedestrians. Similar bills (Intro 606, Intro 104) face the same criticism.
-
Council Members Want To Be Notified When City Repurposes ‘Their’ Parking,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-18
Robert F Holden Supports Safety Boosting E Bike Registration Bill▸Council Member Holden’s e-bike registration bill faces fierce pushback. Advocates warn it targets immigrants and delivery workers. Business groups fear new costs. Supporters say it brings accountability. Streets remain deadly. Cars still kill most. Debate rages. No easy answers.
Intro. 606, known as Priscilla’s Law, was introduced by Council Member Robert F. Holden of District 30. The bill, debated on December 12, 2024, sits before the City Council. It would require all e-mobility devices not covered by the state DMV to register with the city’s Department of Transportation. The bill’s summary states it aims to increase accountability for e-bike riders after fatal crashes. Holden, the sponsor, cited dangers from unregulated e-vehicles and hit-and-runs. Advocacy groups, including Los Deliveristas Unidos and Open Plans, argue the bill would unfairly criminalize immigrants and delivery workers, and increase police stops for people of color. The NYC Hospitality Alliance warns of new financial and administrative burdens for small businesses. Both sides agree cars cause far more deaths, but the bill’s critics say better street design, not registration, would protect vulnerable road users.
-
Immigrant, hospitality advocacy groups push back on NYC e-bike licensing bill,
amny.com,
Published 2024-12-12
Holden Backs Misguided E-Bike Registration Hurting Safety▸Council Member Holden wants license plates on e-bikes. Lawyers say it’s illegal. The bill could block riders, clash with state law, and open doors to police stops. Critics warn it hurts city goals. The law department stays silent.
Intro 606, a City Council bill introduced by Council Member Bob Holden, would force the Department of Transportation to register e-bikes and issue license plates for a fee. The bill is named after Priscilla Loke, killed by an electric Citi Bike rider. Legal experts Daniel Flanzig, Peter Beadle, and Brandon Chamberlin argue the bill violates state law, which bars cities from imposing fees that restrict the 'free use' of bicycles. They warn it would create barriers to e-bike use and could lead to inconsistent rules across cities. Holden defends the bill as a push for 'accountability and safety.' Critics say it discourages e-bike use and risks police harassment, especially for immigrants. The city Law Department declined comment. The bill’s legal standing and impact on vulnerable road users remain sharply contested.
-
Intro 606 Alert: E-Bike Licensing Bill Is Not Even Legal, Lawyers Say,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-11
SUV Driver With Disability Injured in Queens Crash▸A 67-year-old male driver with a physical disability suffered head injuries and minor bleeding after his SUV struck an object with its left front bumper in Queens. The driver was wearing a lap belt and experienced shock at the scene.
According to the police report, a 67-year-old male driver operating a 2024 Nissan SUV in Queens was injured at 16:27. The vehicle was traveling north and impacted with its left front bumper. The report identifies the driver's physical disability as a contributing factor to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was restrained by a lap belt. Injuries included head trauma and minor bleeding, with the driver reported to be in shock. The report does not cite any failure to yield or other driver errors beyond the physical disability. No pedestrian or cyclist involvement was noted.
SUV Strikes Elderly Pedestrian on Queens Avenue▸A 74-year-old man crossing Metropolitan Avenue outside a crosswalk was struck by a westbound SUV. The impact hit the pedestrian’s head, leaving him semiconscious with minor bleeding. The driver proceeded straight, causing severe injury without yielding.
According to the police report, a 74-year-old male pedestrian was injured after being struck by a Ford SUV traveling westbound on Metropolitan Avenue in Queens around 12:03 AM. The pedestrian was crossing outside a crosswalk when the vehicle's center front end collided with his head, resulting in semiconsciousness and minor bleeding. The report notes the pedestrian’s location as 'Pedestrian Not at Intersection' and action as 'Crossing, No Signal, or Crosswalk.' No specific driver contributing factors were listed, but the collision occurred while the driver was going straight ahead, indicating a failure to yield to a pedestrian in the roadway. The driver was licensed and operating a 2003 SUV. The pedestrian’s injury severity was rated at level 3, highlighting the serious impact of the crash.
2Rear-End Collision in Queens Injures Two▸Two occupants suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on Cooper Avenue. Both drivers were traveling southeast when inattentive driving and following too closely caused impact. Whiplash complaints followed as vehicles collided center-to-center.
According to the police report, a rear-end collision occurred on Cooper Avenue in Queens at 10:13 a.m. Two sedans traveling southeast collided when the driver of the trailing vehicle failed to maintain proper distance and was distracted. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors. Both occupants in the rear vehicle, a 40-year-old male driver and a 40-year-old female passenger, sustained neck injuries described as whiplash. Both were conscious and restrained by lap belts and harnesses at the time of impact. The front vehicle, a 2019 Mercedes sedan, sustained center front end damage, while the rear 2013 Ford sedan was damaged at its center back end. The collision highlights the dangers of driver distraction and tailgating on city streets.
Distracted SUV Hits 10-Year-Old E-Scooter Rider▸A distracted SUV driver struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter on Metropolitan Ave in Queens. The child suffered abrasions and injuries to his lower leg and foot. The SUV showed no damage, while the e-scooter's left front bumper was damaged.
According to the police report, at 17:40 on Metropolitan Ave in Queens, a 2018 SUV traveling north struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter southbound. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor for the crash. The SUV's point of impact was the center front end, while the e-scooter sustained damage to its left front bumper. The boy, who was conscious and not ejected, suffered abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The SUV driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead with four occupants. The e-scooter rider was the sole occupant of his vehicle. No other contributing factors were listed. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving to vulnerable road users like child e-scooter riders.
Int 1105-2024Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
Elderly Pedestrian Hit by Westbound Bike in Queens▸An 84-year-old woman suffered a head contusion after a collision with a westbound bicyclist on 80th Street in Queens. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was confused, contributing to the crash. The bike showed no damage, striking center front.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:49 on 80th Street near 78th Avenue in Queens. An 84-year-old female pedestrian was injured, sustaining a head contusion and classified with injury severity 3. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was noted to have pedestrian error or confusion as a contributing factor. The vehicle involved was a westbound bicycle traveling straight ahead, which struck the pedestrian at the center front end. The bike sustained no damage. The report highlights pedestrian confusion as the contributing factor, with no driver errors cited. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision. This incident underscores the risks posed by pedestrian confusion even when not in the roadway.
Gianaris Supports Safety‑Boosting Penalties for Repeat Reckless Drivers▸Police chases in Astoria’s 114 Precinct have surged. Cyclists and pedestrians pay the price. One cyclist is dead. NYPD ignores its own rules. Dangerous drivers face no real penalty. Officials and residents demand action. The city stalls. Streets stay deadly.
This report covers the sharp rise in high-speed police chases in the NYPD’s 114th Precinct, Astoria, Queens. The article, published October 28, 2024, details community outrage after a cyclist’s death and repeated injuries. NYPD policy says chases should end when risk outweighs reward, but enforcement fails. The Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program, which once forced repeat offenders into safety courses, has expired. Comptroller Brad Lander says, 'Drivers who are repeatedly caught by speed and red-light cameras currently face no consequences other than a fine in the mail. Repeat reckless drivers must be held to account.' State Senator Michael Gianaris calls for stronger penalties, including suspending registrations. The NYPD has not adopted reforms. Residents and advocates demand legislative action and transparency. Without it, vulnerable road users remain at risk.
-
Reckless: The 114 Precinct is an Island of High-Speed Chases In Queens,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-28
Sedan Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A sedan collided with a bicyclist traveling west on Myrtle Avenue near 69 Street in Queens. The bicyclist suffered contusions and bruises but remained conscious. Police cited the sedan driver’s disregard for traffic control as the cause of the crash.
According to the police report, at 8:05 AM in Queens, a 2023 sedan traveling south on 69 Street struck a bicyclist going west on Myrtle Avenue. The point of impact was the sedan's center front end and the bike's right rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 28-year-old male, was injured with contusions and bruises but was conscious and not ejected from the bike. The report identifies 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to obey traffic signals or signs. The bicyclist’s injury severity was moderate, and no contributing factors were attributed to the bicyclist. The sedan driver was licensed and operating the vehicle straight ahead before the collision. This crash highlights the dangers posed by drivers disregarding traffic controls, placing vulnerable road users at risk.
Gianaris Supports Fare Free Buses Amid Safety Concerns▸Governor Hochul stalls congestion pricing, leaving MTA riders in limbo. The pause threatens subway and bus service. Advocates demand any replacement funds boost operations, not highways. Riders need frequent, affordable transit—not more gridlock and pollution.
This editorial, published October 1, 2024, addresses Governor Hochul’s decision to pause congestion pricing and seek alternative funding for the MTA’s $15-billion capital plan. The article states: “If the governor wants to do the MTA and riders a favor, she should use the money she finds to instead boost MTA operations.” Author Samuel Santaella criticizes Hochul’s move, arguing it jeopardizes service for working-class New Yorkers. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and State Senator Michael Gianaris are cited as proponents of fare-free buses, while Riders Alliance pushes for six-minute service. The piece urges Hochul to reject highway expansions and instead invest in frequent, affordable transit. The editorial frames this as a fight for clean air, equity, and safety for all New Yorkers who rely on public transportation.
-
OPINION: Any Money Hochul Finds to ‘Replace’ Congestion Pricing Should Fund Fares and Frequency,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-01
Int 0346-2024Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
Council bill Intro 103 forces DOT to notify members for every parking change. Critics say it slows life-saving street redesigns. Advocates warn it props up car culture and blocks safer bike lanes. The bill risks more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings.
Intro 103, now before the City Council, would require the Department of Transportation to notify Council members every time a single parking spot is repurposed—for car-share, bike corrals, or Citi Bike docks. The bill, sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, claims residents need notice before losing parking. But DOT and street safety advocates slam the measure as a bureaucratic drag on urgent safety fixes. Council Member Lincoln Restler calls it 'additional hoops and hurdles' for street safety. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso says, 'I don’t know why we entertain any effort to stop or slow-roll safe street design.' Open Plans and StreetsPAC argue the bill props up car dominance and blocks safer, more sustainable streets. The bill could make it harder to move bike infrastructure off sidewalks, risking more sidewalk riding and fewer safe crossings for pedestrians. Similar bills (Intro 606, Intro 104) face the same criticism.
- Council Members Want To Be Notified When City Repurposes ‘Their’ Parking, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2024-12-18
Robert F Holden Supports Safety Boosting E Bike Registration Bill▸Council Member Holden’s e-bike registration bill faces fierce pushback. Advocates warn it targets immigrants and delivery workers. Business groups fear new costs. Supporters say it brings accountability. Streets remain deadly. Cars still kill most. Debate rages. No easy answers.
Intro. 606, known as Priscilla’s Law, was introduced by Council Member Robert F. Holden of District 30. The bill, debated on December 12, 2024, sits before the City Council. It would require all e-mobility devices not covered by the state DMV to register with the city’s Department of Transportation. The bill’s summary states it aims to increase accountability for e-bike riders after fatal crashes. Holden, the sponsor, cited dangers from unregulated e-vehicles and hit-and-runs. Advocacy groups, including Los Deliveristas Unidos and Open Plans, argue the bill would unfairly criminalize immigrants and delivery workers, and increase police stops for people of color. The NYC Hospitality Alliance warns of new financial and administrative burdens for small businesses. Both sides agree cars cause far more deaths, but the bill’s critics say better street design, not registration, would protect vulnerable road users.
-
Immigrant, hospitality advocacy groups push back on NYC e-bike licensing bill,
amny.com,
Published 2024-12-12
Holden Backs Misguided E-Bike Registration Hurting Safety▸Council Member Holden wants license plates on e-bikes. Lawyers say it’s illegal. The bill could block riders, clash with state law, and open doors to police stops. Critics warn it hurts city goals. The law department stays silent.
Intro 606, a City Council bill introduced by Council Member Bob Holden, would force the Department of Transportation to register e-bikes and issue license plates for a fee. The bill is named after Priscilla Loke, killed by an electric Citi Bike rider. Legal experts Daniel Flanzig, Peter Beadle, and Brandon Chamberlin argue the bill violates state law, which bars cities from imposing fees that restrict the 'free use' of bicycles. They warn it would create barriers to e-bike use and could lead to inconsistent rules across cities. Holden defends the bill as a push for 'accountability and safety.' Critics say it discourages e-bike use and risks police harassment, especially for immigrants. The city Law Department declined comment. The bill’s legal standing and impact on vulnerable road users remain sharply contested.
-
Intro 606 Alert: E-Bike Licensing Bill Is Not Even Legal, Lawyers Say,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-11
SUV Driver With Disability Injured in Queens Crash▸A 67-year-old male driver with a physical disability suffered head injuries and minor bleeding after his SUV struck an object with its left front bumper in Queens. The driver was wearing a lap belt and experienced shock at the scene.
According to the police report, a 67-year-old male driver operating a 2024 Nissan SUV in Queens was injured at 16:27. The vehicle was traveling north and impacted with its left front bumper. The report identifies the driver's physical disability as a contributing factor to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was restrained by a lap belt. Injuries included head trauma and minor bleeding, with the driver reported to be in shock. The report does not cite any failure to yield or other driver errors beyond the physical disability. No pedestrian or cyclist involvement was noted.
SUV Strikes Elderly Pedestrian on Queens Avenue▸A 74-year-old man crossing Metropolitan Avenue outside a crosswalk was struck by a westbound SUV. The impact hit the pedestrian’s head, leaving him semiconscious with minor bleeding. The driver proceeded straight, causing severe injury without yielding.
According to the police report, a 74-year-old male pedestrian was injured after being struck by a Ford SUV traveling westbound on Metropolitan Avenue in Queens around 12:03 AM. The pedestrian was crossing outside a crosswalk when the vehicle's center front end collided with his head, resulting in semiconsciousness and minor bleeding. The report notes the pedestrian’s location as 'Pedestrian Not at Intersection' and action as 'Crossing, No Signal, or Crosswalk.' No specific driver contributing factors were listed, but the collision occurred while the driver was going straight ahead, indicating a failure to yield to a pedestrian in the roadway. The driver was licensed and operating a 2003 SUV. The pedestrian’s injury severity was rated at level 3, highlighting the serious impact of the crash.
2Rear-End Collision in Queens Injures Two▸Two occupants suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on Cooper Avenue. Both drivers were traveling southeast when inattentive driving and following too closely caused impact. Whiplash complaints followed as vehicles collided center-to-center.
According to the police report, a rear-end collision occurred on Cooper Avenue in Queens at 10:13 a.m. Two sedans traveling southeast collided when the driver of the trailing vehicle failed to maintain proper distance and was distracted. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors. Both occupants in the rear vehicle, a 40-year-old male driver and a 40-year-old female passenger, sustained neck injuries described as whiplash. Both were conscious and restrained by lap belts and harnesses at the time of impact. The front vehicle, a 2019 Mercedes sedan, sustained center front end damage, while the rear 2013 Ford sedan was damaged at its center back end. The collision highlights the dangers of driver distraction and tailgating on city streets.
Distracted SUV Hits 10-Year-Old E-Scooter Rider▸A distracted SUV driver struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter on Metropolitan Ave in Queens. The child suffered abrasions and injuries to his lower leg and foot. The SUV showed no damage, while the e-scooter's left front bumper was damaged.
According to the police report, at 17:40 on Metropolitan Ave in Queens, a 2018 SUV traveling north struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter southbound. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor for the crash. The SUV's point of impact was the center front end, while the e-scooter sustained damage to its left front bumper. The boy, who was conscious and not ejected, suffered abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The SUV driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead with four occupants. The e-scooter rider was the sole occupant of his vehicle. No other contributing factors were listed. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving to vulnerable road users like child e-scooter riders.
Int 1105-2024Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
Elderly Pedestrian Hit by Westbound Bike in Queens▸An 84-year-old woman suffered a head contusion after a collision with a westbound bicyclist on 80th Street in Queens. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was confused, contributing to the crash. The bike showed no damage, striking center front.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:49 on 80th Street near 78th Avenue in Queens. An 84-year-old female pedestrian was injured, sustaining a head contusion and classified with injury severity 3. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was noted to have pedestrian error or confusion as a contributing factor. The vehicle involved was a westbound bicycle traveling straight ahead, which struck the pedestrian at the center front end. The bike sustained no damage. The report highlights pedestrian confusion as the contributing factor, with no driver errors cited. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision. This incident underscores the risks posed by pedestrian confusion even when not in the roadway.
Gianaris Supports Safety‑Boosting Penalties for Repeat Reckless Drivers▸Police chases in Astoria’s 114 Precinct have surged. Cyclists and pedestrians pay the price. One cyclist is dead. NYPD ignores its own rules. Dangerous drivers face no real penalty. Officials and residents demand action. The city stalls. Streets stay deadly.
This report covers the sharp rise in high-speed police chases in the NYPD’s 114th Precinct, Astoria, Queens. The article, published October 28, 2024, details community outrage after a cyclist’s death and repeated injuries. NYPD policy says chases should end when risk outweighs reward, but enforcement fails. The Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program, which once forced repeat offenders into safety courses, has expired. Comptroller Brad Lander says, 'Drivers who are repeatedly caught by speed and red-light cameras currently face no consequences other than a fine in the mail. Repeat reckless drivers must be held to account.' State Senator Michael Gianaris calls for stronger penalties, including suspending registrations. The NYPD has not adopted reforms. Residents and advocates demand legislative action and transparency. Without it, vulnerable road users remain at risk.
-
Reckless: The 114 Precinct is an Island of High-Speed Chases In Queens,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-28
Sedan Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A sedan collided with a bicyclist traveling west on Myrtle Avenue near 69 Street in Queens. The bicyclist suffered contusions and bruises but remained conscious. Police cited the sedan driver’s disregard for traffic control as the cause of the crash.
According to the police report, at 8:05 AM in Queens, a 2023 sedan traveling south on 69 Street struck a bicyclist going west on Myrtle Avenue. The point of impact was the sedan's center front end and the bike's right rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 28-year-old male, was injured with contusions and bruises but was conscious and not ejected from the bike. The report identifies 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to obey traffic signals or signs. The bicyclist’s injury severity was moderate, and no contributing factors were attributed to the bicyclist. The sedan driver was licensed and operating the vehicle straight ahead before the collision. This crash highlights the dangers posed by drivers disregarding traffic controls, placing vulnerable road users at risk.
Gianaris Supports Fare Free Buses Amid Safety Concerns▸Governor Hochul stalls congestion pricing, leaving MTA riders in limbo. The pause threatens subway and bus service. Advocates demand any replacement funds boost operations, not highways. Riders need frequent, affordable transit—not more gridlock and pollution.
This editorial, published October 1, 2024, addresses Governor Hochul’s decision to pause congestion pricing and seek alternative funding for the MTA’s $15-billion capital plan. The article states: “If the governor wants to do the MTA and riders a favor, she should use the money she finds to instead boost MTA operations.” Author Samuel Santaella criticizes Hochul’s move, arguing it jeopardizes service for working-class New Yorkers. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and State Senator Michael Gianaris are cited as proponents of fare-free buses, while Riders Alliance pushes for six-minute service. The piece urges Hochul to reject highway expansions and instead invest in frequent, affordable transit. The editorial frames this as a fight for clean air, equity, and safety for all New Yorkers who rely on public transportation.
-
OPINION: Any Money Hochul Finds to ‘Replace’ Congestion Pricing Should Fund Fares and Frequency,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-01
Int 0346-2024Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
Council Member Holden’s e-bike registration bill faces fierce pushback. Advocates warn it targets immigrants and delivery workers. Business groups fear new costs. Supporters say it brings accountability. Streets remain deadly. Cars still kill most. Debate rages. No easy answers.
Intro. 606, known as Priscilla’s Law, was introduced by Council Member Robert F. Holden of District 30. The bill, debated on December 12, 2024, sits before the City Council. It would require all e-mobility devices not covered by the state DMV to register with the city’s Department of Transportation. The bill’s summary states it aims to increase accountability for e-bike riders after fatal crashes. Holden, the sponsor, cited dangers from unregulated e-vehicles and hit-and-runs. Advocacy groups, including Los Deliveristas Unidos and Open Plans, argue the bill would unfairly criminalize immigrants and delivery workers, and increase police stops for people of color. The NYC Hospitality Alliance warns of new financial and administrative burdens for small businesses. Both sides agree cars cause far more deaths, but the bill’s critics say better street design, not registration, would protect vulnerable road users.
- Immigrant, hospitality advocacy groups push back on NYC e-bike licensing bill, amny.com, Published 2024-12-12
Holden Backs Misguided E-Bike Registration Hurting Safety▸Council Member Holden wants license plates on e-bikes. Lawyers say it’s illegal. The bill could block riders, clash with state law, and open doors to police stops. Critics warn it hurts city goals. The law department stays silent.
Intro 606, a City Council bill introduced by Council Member Bob Holden, would force the Department of Transportation to register e-bikes and issue license plates for a fee. The bill is named after Priscilla Loke, killed by an electric Citi Bike rider. Legal experts Daniel Flanzig, Peter Beadle, and Brandon Chamberlin argue the bill violates state law, which bars cities from imposing fees that restrict the 'free use' of bicycles. They warn it would create barriers to e-bike use and could lead to inconsistent rules across cities. Holden defends the bill as a push for 'accountability and safety.' Critics say it discourages e-bike use and risks police harassment, especially for immigrants. The city Law Department declined comment. The bill’s legal standing and impact on vulnerable road users remain sharply contested.
-
Intro 606 Alert: E-Bike Licensing Bill Is Not Even Legal, Lawyers Say,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-12-11
SUV Driver With Disability Injured in Queens Crash▸A 67-year-old male driver with a physical disability suffered head injuries and minor bleeding after his SUV struck an object with its left front bumper in Queens. The driver was wearing a lap belt and experienced shock at the scene.
According to the police report, a 67-year-old male driver operating a 2024 Nissan SUV in Queens was injured at 16:27. The vehicle was traveling north and impacted with its left front bumper. The report identifies the driver's physical disability as a contributing factor to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was restrained by a lap belt. Injuries included head trauma and minor bleeding, with the driver reported to be in shock. The report does not cite any failure to yield or other driver errors beyond the physical disability. No pedestrian or cyclist involvement was noted.
SUV Strikes Elderly Pedestrian on Queens Avenue▸A 74-year-old man crossing Metropolitan Avenue outside a crosswalk was struck by a westbound SUV. The impact hit the pedestrian’s head, leaving him semiconscious with minor bleeding. The driver proceeded straight, causing severe injury without yielding.
According to the police report, a 74-year-old male pedestrian was injured after being struck by a Ford SUV traveling westbound on Metropolitan Avenue in Queens around 12:03 AM. The pedestrian was crossing outside a crosswalk when the vehicle's center front end collided with his head, resulting in semiconsciousness and minor bleeding. The report notes the pedestrian’s location as 'Pedestrian Not at Intersection' and action as 'Crossing, No Signal, or Crosswalk.' No specific driver contributing factors were listed, but the collision occurred while the driver was going straight ahead, indicating a failure to yield to a pedestrian in the roadway. The driver was licensed and operating a 2003 SUV. The pedestrian’s injury severity was rated at level 3, highlighting the serious impact of the crash.
2Rear-End Collision in Queens Injures Two▸Two occupants suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on Cooper Avenue. Both drivers were traveling southeast when inattentive driving and following too closely caused impact. Whiplash complaints followed as vehicles collided center-to-center.
According to the police report, a rear-end collision occurred on Cooper Avenue in Queens at 10:13 a.m. Two sedans traveling southeast collided when the driver of the trailing vehicle failed to maintain proper distance and was distracted. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors. Both occupants in the rear vehicle, a 40-year-old male driver and a 40-year-old female passenger, sustained neck injuries described as whiplash. Both were conscious and restrained by lap belts and harnesses at the time of impact. The front vehicle, a 2019 Mercedes sedan, sustained center front end damage, while the rear 2013 Ford sedan was damaged at its center back end. The collision highlights the dangers of driver distraction and tailgating on city streets.
Distracted SUV Hits 10-Year-Old E-Scooter Rider▸A distracted SUV driver struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter on Metropolitan Ave in Queens. The child suffered abrasions and injuries to his lower leg and foot. The SUV showed no damage, while the e-scooter's left front bumper was damaged.
According to the police report, at 17:40 on Metropolitan Ave in Queens, a 2018 SUV traveling north struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter southbound. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor for the crash. The SUV's point of impact was the center front end, while the e-scooter sustained damage to its left front bumper. The boy, who was conscious and not ejected, suffered abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The SUV driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead with four occupants. The e-scooter rider was the sole occupant of his vehicle. No other contributing factors were listed. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving to vulnerable road users like child e-scooter riders.
Int 1105-2024Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
Elderly Pedestrian Hit by Westbound Bike in Queens▸An 84-year-old woman suffered a head contusion after a collision with a westbound bicyclist on 80th Street in Queens. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was confused, contributing to the crash. The bike showed no damage, striking center front.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:49 on 80th Street near 78th Avenue in Queens. An 84-year-old female pedestrian was injured, sustaining a head contusion and classified with injury severity 3. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was noted to have pedestrian error or confusion as a contributing factor. The vehicle involved was a westbound bicycle traveling straight ahead, which struck the pedestrian at the center front end. The bike sustained no damage. The report highlights pedestrian confusion as the contributing factor, with no driver errors cited. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision. This incident underscores the risks posed by pedestrian confusion even when not in the roadway.
Gianaris Supports Safety‑Boosting Penalties for Repeat Reckless Drivers▸Police chases in Astoria’s 114 Precinct have surged. Cyclists and pedestrians pay the price. One cyclist is dead. NYPD ignores its own rules. Dangerous drivers face no real penalty. Officials and residents demand action. The city stalls. Streets stay deadly.
This report covers the sharp rise in high-speed police chases in the NYPD’s 114th Precinct, Astoria, Queens. The article, published October 28, 2024, details community outrage after a cyclist’s death and repeated injuries. NYPD policy says chases should end when risk outweighs reward, but enforcement fails. The Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program, which once forced repeat offenders into safety courses, has expired. Comptroller Brad Lander says, 'Drivers who are repeatedly caught by speed and red-light cameras currently face no consequences other than a fine in the mail. Repeat reckless drivers must be held to account.' State Senator Michael Gianaris calls for stronger penalties, including suspending registrations. The NYPD has not adopted reforms. Residents and advocates demand legislative action and transparency. Without it, vulnerable road users remain at risk.
-
Reckless: The 114 Precinct is an Island of High-Speed Chases In Queens,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-28
Sedan Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A sedan collided with a bicyclist traveling west on Myrtle Avenue near 69 Street in Queens. The bicyclist suffered contusions and bruises but remained conscious. Police cited the sedan driver’s disregard for traffic control as the cause of the crash.
According to the police report, at 8:05 AM in Queens, a 2023 sedan traveling south on 69 Street struck a bicyclist going west on Myrtle Avenue. The point of impact was the sedan's center front end and the bike's right rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 28-year-old male, was injured with contusions and bruises but was conscious and not ejected from the bike. The report identifies 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to obey traffic signals or signs. The bicyclist’s injury severity was moderate, and no contributing factors were attributed to the bicyclist. The sedan driver was licensed and operating the vehicle straight ahead before the collision. This crash highlights the dangers posed by drivers disregarding traffic controls, placing vulnerable road users at risk.
Gianaris Supports Fare Free Buses Amid Safety Concerns▸Governor Hochul stalls congestion pricing, leaving MTA riders in limbo. The pause threatens subway and bus service. Advocates demand any replacement funds boost operations, not highways. Riders need frequent, affordable transit—not more gridlock and pollution.
This editorial, published October 1, 2024, addresses Governor Hochul’s decision to pause congestion pricing and seek alternative funding for the MTA’s $15-billion capital plan. The article states: “If the governor wants to do the MTA and riders a favor, she should use the money she finds to instead boost MTA operations.” Author Samuel Santaella criticizes Hochul’s move, arguing it jeopardizes service for working-class New Yorkers. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and State Senator Michael Gianaris are cited as proponents of fare-free buses, while Riders Alliance pushes for six-minute service. The piece urges Hochul to reject highway expansions and instead invest in frequent, affordable transit. The editorial frames this as a fight for clean air, equity, and safety for all New Yorkers who rely on public transportation.
-
OPINION: Any Money Hochul Finds to ‘Replace’ Congestion Pricing Should Fund Fares and Frequency,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-01
Int 0346-2024Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
Council Member Holden wants license plates on e-bikes. Lawyers say it’s illegal. The bill could block riders, clash with state law, and open doors to police stops. Critics warn it hurts city goals. The law department stays silent.
Intro 606, a City Council bill introduced by Council Member Bob Holden, would force the Department of Transportation to register e-bikes and issue license plates for a fee. The bill is named after Priscilla Loke, killed by an electric Citi Bike rider. Legal experts Daniel Flanzig, Peter Beadle, and Brandon Chamberlin argue the bill violates state law, which bars cities from imposing fees that restrict the 'free use' of bicycles. They warn it would create barriers to e-bike use and could lead to inconsistent rules across cities. Holden defends the bill as a push for 'accountability and safety.' Critics say it discourages e-bike use and risks police harassment, especially for immigrants. The city Law Department declined comment. The bill’s legal standing and impact on vulnerable road users remain sharply contested.
- Intro 606 Alert: E-Bike Licensing Bill Is Not Even Legal, Lawyers Say, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2024-12-11
SUV Driver With Disability Injured in Queens Crash▸A 67-year-old male driver with a physical disability suffered head injuries and minor bleeding after his SUV struck an object with its left front bumper in Queens. The driver was wearing a lap belt and experienced shock at the scene.
According to the police report, a 67-year-old male driver operating a 2024 Nissan SUV in Queens was injured at 16:27. The vehicle was traveling north and impacted with its left front bumper. The report identifies the driver's physical disability as a contributing factor to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was restrained by a lap belt. Injuries included head trauma and minor bleeding, with the driver reported to be in shock. The report does not cite any failure to yield or other driver errors beyond the physical disability. No pedestrian or cyclist involvement was noted.
SUV Strikes Elderly Pedestrian on Queens Avenue▸A 74-year-old man crossing Metropolitan Avenue outside a crosswalk was struck by a westbound SUV. The impact hit the pedestrian’s head, leaving him semiconscious with minor bleeding. The driver proceeded straight, causing severe injury without yielding.
According to the police report, a 74-year-old male pedestrian was injured after being struck by a Ford SUV traveling westbound on Metropolitan Avenue in Queens around 12:03 AM. The pedestrian was crossing outside a crosswalk when the vehicle's center front end collided with his head, resulting in semiconsciousness and minor bleeding. The report notes the pedestrian’s location as 'Pedestrian Not at Intersection' and action as 'Crossing, No Signal, or Crosswalk.' No specific driver contributing factors were listed, but the collision occurred while the driver was going straight ahead, indicating a failure to yield to a pedestrian in the roadway. The driver was licensed and operating a 2003 SUV. The pedestrian’s injury severity was rated at level 3, highlighting the serious impact of the crash.
2Rear-End Collision in Queens Injures Two▸Two occupants suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on Cooper Avenue. Both drivers were traveling southeast when inattentive driving and following too closely caused impact. Whiplash complaints followed as vehicles collided center-to-center.
According to the police report, a rear-end collision occurred on Cooper Avenue in Queens at 10:13 a.m. Two sedans traveling southeast collided when the driver of the trailing vehicle failed to maintain proper distance and was distracted. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors. Both occupants in the rear vehicle, a 40-year-old male driver and a 40-year-old female passenger, sustained neck injuries described as whiplash. Both were conscious and restrained by lap belts and harnesses at the time of impact. The front vehicle, a 2019 Mercedes sedan, sustained center front end damage, while the rear 2013 Ford sedan was damaged at its center back end. The collision highlights the dangers of driver distraction and tailgating on city streets.
Distracted SUV Hits 10-Year-Old E-Scooter Rider▸A distracted SUV driver struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter on Metropolitan Ave in Queens. The child suffered abrasions and injuries to his lower leg and foot. The SUV showed no damage, while the e-scooter's left front bumper was damaged.
According to the police report, at 17:40 on Metropolitan Ave in Queens, a 2018 SUV traveling north struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter southbound. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor for the crash. The SUV's point of impact was the center front end, while the e-scooter sustained damage to its left front bumper. The boy, who was conscious and not ejected, suffered abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The SUV driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead with four occupants. The e-scooter rider was the sole occupant of his vehicle. No other contributing factors were listed. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving to vulnerable road users like child e-scooter riders.
Int 1105-2024Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
Elderly Pedestrian Hit by Westbound Bike in Queens▸An 84-year-old woman suffered a head contusion after a collision with a westbound bicyclist on 80th Street in Queens. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was confused, contributing to the crash. The bike showed no damage, striking center front.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:49 on 80th Street near 78th Avenue in Queens. An 84-year-old female pedestrian was injured, sustaining a head contusion and classified with injury severity 3. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was noted to have pedestrian error or confusion as a contributing factor. The vehicle involved was a westbound bicycle traveling straight ahead, which struck the pedestrian at the center front end. The bike sustained no damage. The report highlights pedestrian confusion as the contributing factor, with no driver errors cited. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision. This incident underscores the risks posed by pedestrian confusion even when not in the roadway.
Gianaris Supports Safety‑Boosting Penalties for Repeat Reckless Drivers▸Police chases in Astoria’s 114 Precinct have surged. Cyclists and pedestrians pay the price. One cyclist is dead. NYPD ignores its own rules. Dangerous drivers face no real penalty. Officials and residents demand action. The city stalls. Streets stay deadly.
This report covers the sharp rise in high-speed police chases in the NYPD’s 114th Precinct, Astoria, Queens. The article, published October 28, 2024, details community outrage after a cyclist’s death and repeated injuries. NYPD policy says chases should end when risk outweighs reward, but enforcement fails. The Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program, which once forced repeat offenders into safety courses, has expired. Comptroller Brad Lander says, 'Drivers who are repeatedly caught by speed and red-light cameras currently face no consequences other than a fine in the mail. Repeat reckless drivers must be held to account.' State Senator Michael Gianaris calls for stronger penalties, including suspending registrations. The NYPD has not adopted reforms. Residents and advocates demand legislative action and transparency. Without it, vulnerable road users remain at risk.
-
Reckless: The 114 Precinct is an Island of High-Speed Chases In Queens,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-28
Sedan Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A sedan collided with a bicyclist traveling west on Myrtle Avenue near 69 Street in Queens. The bicyclist suffered contusions and bruises but remained conscious. Police cited the sedan driver’s disregard for traffic control as the cause of the crash.
According to the police report, at 8:05 AM in Queens, a 2023 sedan traveling south on 69 Street struck a bicyclist going west on Myrtle Avenue. The point of impact was the sedan's center front end and the bike's right rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 28-year-old male, was injured with contusions and bruises but was conscious and not ejected from the bike. The report identifies 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to obey traffic signals or signs. The bicyclist’s injury severity was moderate, and no contributing factors were attributed to the bicyclist. The sedan driver was licensed and operating the vehicle straight ahead before the collision. This crash highlights the dangers posed by drivers disregarding traffic controls, placing vulnerable road users at risk.
Gianaris Supports Fare Free Buses Amid Safety Concerns▸Governor Hochul stalls congestion pricing, leaving MTA riders in limbo. The pause threatens subway and bus service. Advocates demand any replacement funds boost operations, not highways. Riders need frequent, affordable transit—not more gridlock and pollution.
This editorial, published October 1, 2024, addresses Governor Hochul’s decision to pause congestion pricing and seek alternative funding for the MTA’s $15-billion capital plan. The article states: “If the governor wants to do the MTA and riders a favor, she should use the money she finds to instead boost MTA operations.” Author Samuel Santaella criticizes Hochul’s move, arguing it jeopardizes service for working-class New Yorkers. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and State Senator Michael Gianaris are cited as proponents of fare-free buses, while Riders Alliance pushes for six-minute service. The piece urges Hochul to reject highway expansions and instead invest in frequent, affordable transit. The editorial frames this as a fight for clean air, equity, and safety for all New Yorkers who rely on public transportation.
-
OPINION: Any Money Hochul Finds to ‘Replace’ Congestion Pricing Should Fund Fares and Frequency,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-01
Int 0346-2024Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
A 67-year-old male driver with a physical disability suffered head injuries and minor bleeding after his SUV struck an object with its left front bumper in Queens. The driver was wearing a lap belt and experienced shock at the scene.
According to the police report, a 67-year-old male driver operating a 2024 Nissan SUV in Queens was injured at 16:27. The vehicle was traveling north and impacted with its left front bumper. The report identifies the driver's physical disability as a contributing factor to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was restrained by a lap belt. Injuries included head trauma and minor bleeding, with the driver reported to be in shock. The report does not cite any failure to yield or other driver errors beyond the physical disability. No pedestrian or cyclist involvement was noted.
SUV Strikes Elderly Pedestrian on Queens Avenue▸A 74-year-old man crossing Metropolitan Avenue outside a crosswalk was struck by a westbound SUV. The impact hit the pedestrian’s head, leaving him semiconscious with minor bleeding. The driver proceeded straight, causing severe injury without yielding.
According to the police report, a 74-year-old male pedestrian was injured after being struck by a Ford SUV traveling westbound on Metropolitan Avenue in Queens around 12:03 AM. The pedestrian was crossing outside a crosswalk when the vehicle's center front end collided with his head, resulting in semiconsciousness and minor bleeding. The report notes the pedestrian’s location as 'Pedestrian Not at Intersection' and action as 'Crossing, No Signal, or Crosswalk.' No specific driver contributing factors were listed, but the collision occurred while the driver was going straight ahead, indicating a failure to yield to a pedestrian in the roadway. The driver was licensed and operating a 2003 SUV. The pedestrian’s injury severity was rated at level 3, highlighting the serious impact of the crash.
2Rear-End Collision in Queens Injures Two▸Two occupants suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on Cooper Avenue. Both drivers were traveling southeast when inattentive driving and following too closely caused impact. Whiplash complaints followed as vehicles collided center-to-center.
According to the police report, a rear-end collision occurred on Cooper Avenue in Queens at 10:13 a.m. Two sedans traveling southeast collided when the driver of the trailing vehicle failed to maintain proper distance and was distracted. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors. Both occupants in the rear vehicle, a 40-year-old male driver and a 40-year-old female passenger, sustained neck injuries described as whiplash. Both were conscious and restrained by lap belts and harnesses at the time of impact. The front vehicle, a 2019 Mercedes sedan, sustained center front end damage, while the rear 2013 Ford sedan was damaged at its center back end. The collision highlights the dangers of driver distraction and tailgating on city streets.
Distracted SUV Hits 10-Year-Old E-Scooter Rider▸A distracted SUV driver struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter on Metropolitan Ave in Queens. The child suffered abrasions and injuries to his lower leg and foot. The SUV showed no damage, while the e-scooter's left front bumper was damaged.
According to the police report, at 17:40 on Metropolitan Ave in Queens, a 2018 SUV traveling north struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter southbound. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor for the crash. The SUV's point of impact was the center front end, while the e-scooter sustained damage to its left front bumper. The boy, who was conscious and not ejected, suffered abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The SUV driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead with four occupants. The e-scooter rider was the sole occupant of his vehicle. No other contributing factors were listed. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving to vulnerable road users like child e-scooter riders.
Int 1105-2024Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
Elderly Pedestrian Hit by Westbound Bike in Queens▸An 84-year-old woman suffered a head contusion after a collision with a westbound bicyclist on 80th Street in Queens. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was confused, contributing to the crash. The bike showed no damage, striking center front.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:49 on 80th Street near 78th Avenue in Queens. An 84-year-old female pedestrian was injured, sustaining a head contusion and classified with injury severity 3. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was noted to have pedestrian error or confusion as a contributing factor. The vehicle involved was a westbound bicycle traveling straight ahead, which struck the pedestrian at the center front end. The bike sustained no damage. The report highlights pedestrian confusion as the contributing factor, with no driver errors cited. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision. This incident underscores the risks posed by pedestrian confusion even when not in the roadway.
Gianaris Supports Safety‑Boosting Penalties for Repeat Reckless Drivers▸Police chases in Astoria’s 114 Precinct have surged. Cyclists and pedestrians pay the price. One cyclist is dead. NYPD ignores its own rules. Dangerous drivers face no real penalty. Officials and residents demand action. The city stalls. Streets stay deadly.
This report covers the sharp rise in high-speed police chases in the NYPD’s 114th Precinct, Astoria, Queens. The article, published October 28, 2024, details community outrage after a cyclist’s death and repeated injuries. NYPD policy says chases should end when risk outweighs reward, but enforcement fails. The Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program, which once forced repeat offenders into safety courses, has expired. Comptroller Brad Lander says, 'Drivers who are repeatedly caught by speed and red-light cameras currently face no consequences other than a fine in the mail. Repeat reckless drivers must be held to account.' State Senator Michael Gianaris calls for stronger penalties, including suspending registrations. The NYPD has not adopted reforms. Residents and advocates demand legislative action and transparency. Without it, vulnerable road users remain at risk.
-
Reckless: The 114 Precinct is an Island of High-Speed Chases In Queens,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-28
Sedan Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A sedan collided with a bicyclist traveling west on Myrtle Avenue near 69 Street in Queens. The bicyclist suffered contusions and bruises but remained conscious. Police cited the sedan driver’s disregard for traffic control as the cause of the crash.
According to the police report, at 8:05 AM in Queens, a 2023 sedan traveling south on 69 Street struck a bicyclist going west on Myrtle Avenue. The point of impact was the sedan's center front end and the bike's right rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 28-year-old male, was injured with contusions and bruises but was conscious and not ejected from the bike. The report identifies 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to obey traffic signals or signs. The bicyclist’s injury severity was moderate, and no contributing factors were attributed to the bicyclist. The sedan driver was licensed and operating the vehicle straight ahead before the collision. This crash highlights the dangers posed by drivers disregarding traffic controls, placing vulnerable road users at risk.
Gianaris Supports Fare Free Buses Amid Safety Concerns▸Governor Hochul stalls congestion pricing, leaving MTA riders in limbo. The pause threatens subway and bus service. Advocates demand any replacement funds boost operations, not highways. Riders need frequent, affordable transit—not more gridlock and pollution.
This editorial, published October 1, 2024, addresses Governor Hochul’s decision to pause congestion pricing and seek alternative funding for the MTA’s $15-billion capital plan. The article states: “If the governor wants to do the MTA and riders a favor, she should use the money she finds to instead boost MTA operations.” Author Samuel Santaella criticizes Hochul’s move, arguing it jeopardizes service for working-class New Yorkers. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and State Senator Michael Gianaris are cited as proponents of fare-free buses, while Riders Alliance pushes for six-minute service. The piece urges Hochul to reject highway expansions and instead invest in frequent, affordable transit. The editorial frames this as a fight for clean air, equity, and safety for all New Yorkers who rely on public transportation.
-
OPINION: Any Money Hochul Finds to ‘Replace’ Congestion Pricing Should Fund Fares and Frequency,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-01
Int 0346-2024Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
A 74-year-old man crossing Metropolitan Avenue outside a crosswalk was struck by a westbound SUV. The impact hit the pedestrian’s head, leaving him semiconscious with minor bleeding. The driver proceeded straight, causing severe injury without yielding.
According to the police report, a 74-year-old male pedestrian was injured after being struck by a Ford SUV traveling westbound on Metropolitan Avenue in Queens around 12:03 AM. The pedestrian was crossing outside a crosswalk when the vehicle's center front end collided with his head, resulting in semiconsciousness and minor bleeding. The report notes the pedestrian’s location as 'Pedestrian Not at Intersection' and action as 'Crossing, No Signal, or Crosswalk.' No specific driver contributing factors were listed, but the collision occurred while the driver was going straight ahead, indicating a failure to yield to a pedestrian in the roadway. The driver was licensed and operating a 2003 SUV. The pedestrian’s injury severity was rated at level 3, highlighting the serious impact of the crash.
2Rear-End Collision in Queens Injures Two▸Two occupants suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on Cooper Avenue. Both drivers were traveling southeast when inattentive driving and following too closely caused impact. Whiplash complaints followed as vehicles collided center-to-center.
According to the police report, a rear-end collision occurred on Cooper Avenue in Queens at 10:13 a.m. Two sedans traveling southeast collided when the driver of the trailing vehicle failed to maintain proper distance and was distracted. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors. Both occupants in the rear vehicle, a 40-year-old male driver and a 40-year-old female passenger, sustained neck injuries described as whiplash. Both were conscious and restrained by lap belts and harnesses at the time of impact. The front vehicle, a 2019 Mercedes sedan, sustained center front end damage, while the rear 2013 Ford sedan was damaged at its center back end. The collision highlights the dangers of driver distraction and tailgating on city streets.
Distracted SUV Hits 10-Year-Old E-Scooter Rider▸A distracted SUV driver struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter on Metropolitan Ave in Queens. The child suffered abrasions and injuries to his lower leg and foot. The SUV showed no damage, while the e-scooter's left front bumper was damaged.
According to the police report, at 17:40 on Metropolitan Ave in Queens, a 2018 SUV traveling north struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter southbound. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor for the crash. The SUV's point of impact was the center front end, while the e-scooter sustained damage to its left front bumper. The boy, who was conscious and not ejected, suffered abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The SUV driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead with four occupants. The e-scooter rider was the sole occupant of his vehicle. No other contributing factors were listed. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving to vulnerable road users like child e-scooter riders.
Int 1105-2024Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
Elderly Pedestrian Hit by Westbound Bike in Queens▸An 84-year-old woman suffered a head contusion after a collision with a westbound bicyclist on 80th Street in Queens. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was confused, contributing to the crash. The bike showed no damage, striking center front.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:49 on 80th Street near 78th Avenue in Queens. An 84-year-old female pedestrian was injured, sustaining a head contusion and classified with injury severity 3. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was noted to have pedestrian error or confusion as a contributing factor. The vehicle involved was a westbound bicycle traveling straight ahead, which struck the pedestrian at the center front end. The bike sustained no damage. The report highlights pedestrian confusion as the contributing factor, with no driver errors cited. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision. This incident underscores the risks posed by pedestrian confusion even when not in the roadway.
Gianaris Supports Safety‑Boosting Penalties for Repeat Reckless Drivers▸Police chases in Astoria’s 114 Precinct have surged. Cyclists and pedestrians pay the price. One cyclist is dead. NYPD ignores its own rules. Dangerous drivers face no real penalty. Officials and residents demand action. The city stalls. Streets stay deadly.
This report covers the sharp rise in high-speed police chases in the NYPD’s 114th Precinct, Astoria, Queens. The article, published October 28, 2024, details community outrage after a cyclist’s death and repeated injuries. NYPD policy says chases should end when risk outweighs reward, but enforcement fails. The Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program, which once forced repeat offenders into safety courses, has expired. Comptroller Brad Lander says, 'Drivers who are repeatedly caught by speed and red-light cameras currently face no consequences other than a fine in the mail. Repeat reckless drivers must be held to account.' State Senator Michael Gianaris calls for stronger penalties, including suspending registrations. The NYPD has not adopted reforms. Residents and advocates demand legislative action and transparency. Without it, vulnerable road users remain at risk.
-
Reckless: The 114 Precinct is an Island of High-Speed Chases In Queens,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-28
Sedan Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A sedan collided with a bicyclist traveling west on Myrtle Avenue near 69 Street in Queens. The bicyclist suffered contusions and bruises but remained conscious. Police cited the sedan driver’s disregard for traffic control as the cause of the crash.
According to the police report, at 8:05 AM in Queens, a 2023 sedan traveling south on 69 Street struck a bicyclist going west on Myrtle Avenue. The point of impact was the sedan's center front end and the bike's right rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 28-year-old male, was injured with contusions and bruises but was conscious and not ejected from the bike. The report identifies 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to obey traffic signals or signs. The bicyclist’s injury severity was moderate, and no contributing factors were attributed to the bicyclist. The sedan driver was licensed and operating the vehicle straight ahead before the collision. This crash highlights the dangers posed by drivers disregarding traffic controls, placing vulnerable road users at risk.
Gianaris Supports Fare Free Buses Amid Safety Concerns▸Governor Hochul stalls congestion pricing, leaving MTA riders in limbo. The pause threatens subway and bus service. Advocates demand any replacement funds boost operations, not highways. Riders need frequent, affordable transit—not more gridlock and pollution.
This editorial, published October 1, 2024, addresses Governor Hochul’s decision to pause congestion pricing and seek alternative funding for the MTA’s $15-billion capital plan. The article states: “If the governor wants to do the MTA and riders a favor, she should use the money she finds to instead boost MTA operations.” Author Samuel Santaella criticizes Hochul’s move, arguing it jeopardizes service for working-class New Yorkers. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and State Senator Michael Gianaris are cited as proponents of fare-free buses, while Riders Alliance pushes for six-minute service. The piece urges Hochul to reject highway expansions and instead invest in frequent, affordable transit. The editorial frames this as a fight for clean air, equity, and safety for all New Yorkers who rely on public transportation.
-
OPINION: Any Money Hochul Finds to ‘Replace’ Congestion Pricing Should Fund Fares and Frequency,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-01
Int 0346-2024Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
Two occupants suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on Cooper Avenue. Both drivers were traveling southeast when inattentive driving and following too closely caused impact. Whiplash complaints followed as vehicles collided center-to-center.
According to the police report, a rear-end collision occurred on Cooper Avenue in Queens at 10:13 a.m. Two sedans traveling southeast collided when the driver of the trailing vehicle failed to maintain proper distance and was distracted. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Following Too Closely' as contributing factors. Both occupants in the rear vehicle, a 40-year-old male driver and a 40-year-old female passenger, sustained neck injuries described as whiplash. Both were conscious and restrained by lap belts and harnesses at the time of impact. The front vehicle, a 2019 Mercedes sedan, sustained center front end damage, while the rear 2013 Ford sedan was damaged at its center back end. The collision highlights the dangers of driver distraction and tailgating on city streets.
Distracted SUV Hits 10-Year-Old E-Scooter Rider▸A distracted SUV driver struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter on Metropolitan Ave in Queens. The child suffered abrasions and injuries to his lower leg and foot. The SUV showed no damage, while the e-scooter's left front bumper was damaged.
According to the police report, at 17:40 on Metropolitan Ave in Queens, a 2018 SUV traveling north struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter southbound. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor for the crash. The SUV's point of impact was the center front end, while the e-scooter sustained damage to its left front bumper. The boy, who was conscious and not ejected, suffered abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The SUV driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead with four occupants. The e-scooter rider was the sole occupant of his vehicle. No other contributing factors were listed. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving to vulnerable road users like child e-scooter riders.
Int 1105-2024Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
Elderly Pedestrian Hit by Westbound Bike in Queens▸An 84-year-old woman suffered a head contusion after a collision with a westbound bicyclist on 80th Street in Queens. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was confused, contributing to the crash. The bike showed no damage, striking center front.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:49 on 80th Street near 78th Avenue in Queens. An 84-year-old female pedestrian was injured, sustaining a head contusion and classified with injury severity 3. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was noted to have pedestrian error or confusion as a contributing factor. The vehicle involved was a westbound bicycle traveling straight ahead, which struck the pedestrian at the center front end. The bike sustained no damage. The report highlights pedestrian confusion as the contributing factor, with no driver errors cited. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision. This incident underscores the risks posed by pedestrian confusion even when not in the roadway.
Gianaris Supports Safety‑Boosting Penalties for Repeat Reckless Drivers▸Police chases in Astoria’s 114 Precinct have surged. Cyclists and pedestrians pay the price. One cyclist is dead. NYPD ignores its own rules. Dangerous drivers face no real penalty. Officials and residents demand action. The city stalls. Streets stay deadly.
This report covers the sharp rise in high-speed police chases in the NYPD’s 114th Precinct, Astoria, Queens. The article, published October 28, 2024, details community outrage after a cyclist’s death and repeated injuries. NYPD policy says chases should end when risk outweighs reward, but enforcement fails. The Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program, which once forced repeat offenders into safety courses, has expired. Comptroller Brad Lander says, 'Drivers who are repeatedly caught by speed and red-light cameras currently face no consequences other than a fine in the mail. Repeat reckless drivers must be held to account.' State Senator Michael Gianaris calls for stronger penalties, including suspending registrations. The NYPD has not adopted reforms. Residents and advocates demand legislative action and transparency. Without it, vulnerable road users remain at risk.
-
Reckless: The 114 Precinct is an Island of High-Speed Chases In Queens,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-28
Sedan Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A sedan collided with a bicyclist traveling west on Myrtle Avenue near 69 Street in Queens. The bicyclist suffered contusions and bruises but remained conscious. Police cited the sedan driver’s disregard for traffic control as the cause of the crash.
According to the police report, at 8:05 AM in Queens, a 2023 sedan traveling south on 69 Street struck a bicyclist going west on Myrtle Avenue. The point of impact was the sedan's center front end and the bike's right rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 28-year-old male, was injured with contusions and bruises but was conscious and not ejected from the bike. The report identifies 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to obey traffic signals or signs. The bicyclist’s injury severity was moderate, and no contributing factors were attributed to the bicyclist. The sedan driver was licensed and operating the vehicle straight ahead before the collision. This crash highlights the dangers posed by drivers disregarding traffic controls, placing vulnerable road users at risk.
Gianaris Supports Fare Free Buses Amid Safety Concerns▸Governor Hochul stalls congestion pricing, leaving MTA riders in limbo. The pause threatens subway and bus service. Advocates demand any replacement funds boost operations, not highways. Riders need frequent, affordable transit—not more gridlock and pollution.
This editorial, published October 1, 2024, addresses Governor Hochul’s decision to pause congestion pricing and seek alternative funding for the MTA’s $15-billion capital plan. The article states: “If the governor wants to do the MTA and riders a favor, she should use the money she finds to instead boost MTA operations.” Author Samuel Santaella criticizes Hochul’s move, arguing it jeopardizes service for working-class New Yorkers. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and State Senator Michael Gianaris are cited as proponents of fare-free buses, while Riders Alliance pushes for six-minute service. The piece urges Hochul to reject highway expansions and instead invest in frequent, affordable transit. The editorial frames this as a fight for clean air, equity, and safety for all New Yorkers who rely on public transportation.
-
OPINION: Any Money Hochul Finds to ‘Replace’ Congestion Pricing Should Fund Fares and Frequency,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-01
Int 0346-2024Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
A distracted SUV driver struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter on Metropolitan Ave in Queens. The child suffered abrasions and injuries to his lower leg and foot. The SUV showed no damage, while the e-scooter's left front bumper was damaged.
According to the police report, at 17:40 on Metropolitan Ave in Queens, a 2018 SUV traveling north struck a 10-year-old boy riding an e-scooter southbound. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor for the crash. The SUV's point of impact was the center front end, while the e-scooter sustained damage to its left front bumper. The boy, who was conscious and not ejected, suffered abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The SUV driver was licensed and traveling straight ahead with four occupants. The e-scooter rider was the sole occupant of his vehicle. No other contributing factors were listed. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving to vulnerable road users like child e-scooter riders.
Int 1105-2024Ariola co-sponsors bill boosting street safety transparency and project accountability.▸Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
-
File Int 1105-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-11-13
Elderly Pedestrian Hit by Westbound Bike in Queens▸An 84-year-old woman suffered a head contusion after a collision with a westbound bicyclist on 80th Street in Queens. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was confused, contributing to the crash. The bike showed no damage, striking center front.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:49 on 80th Street near 78th Avenue in Queens. An 84-year-old female pedestrian was injured, sustaining a head contusion and classified with injury severity 3. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was noted to have pedestrian error or confusion as a contributing factor. The vehicle involved was a westbound bicycle traveling straight ahead, which struck the pedestrian at the center front end. The bike sustained no damage. The report highlights pedestrian confusion as the contributing factor, with no driver errors cited. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision. This incident underscores the risks posed by pedestrian confusion even when not in the roadway.
Gianaris Supports Safety‑Boosting Penalties for Repeat Reckless Drivers▸Police chases in Astoria’s 114 Precinct have surged. Cyclists and pedestrians pay the price. One cyclist is dead. NYPD ignores its own rules. Dangerous drivers face no real penalty. Officials and residents demand action. The city stalls. Streets stay deadly.
This report covers the sharp rise in high-speed police chases in the NYPD’s 114th Precinct, Astoria, Queens. The article, published October 28, 2024, details community outrage after a cyclist’s death and repeated injuries. NYPD policy says chases should end when risk outweighs reward, but enforcement fails. The Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program, which once forced repeat offenders into safety courses, has expired. Comptroller Brad Lander says, 'Drivers who are repeatedly caught by speed and red-light cameras currently face no consequences other than a fine in the mail. Repeat reckless drivers must be held to account.' State Senator Michael Gianaris calls for stronger penalties, including suspending registrations. The NYPD has not adopted reforms. Residents and advocates demand legislative action and transparency. Without it, vulnerable road users remain at risk.
-
Reckless: The 114 Precinct is an Island of High-Speed Chases In Queens,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-28
Sedan Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A sedan collided with a bicyclist traveling west on Myrtle Avenue near 69 Street in Queens. The bicyclist suffered contusions and bruises but remained conscious. Police cited the sedan driver’s disregard for traffic control as the cause of the crash.
According to the police report, at 8:05 AM in Queens, a 2023 sedan traveling south on 69 Street struck a bicyclist going west on Myrtle Avenue. The point of impact was the sedan's center front end and the bike's right rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 28-year-old male, was injured with contusions and bruises but was conscious and not ejected from the bike. The report identifies 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to obey traffic signals or signs. The bicyclist’s injury severity was moderate, and no contributing factors were attributed to the bicyclist. The sedan driver was licensed and operating the vehicle straight ahead before the collision. This crash highlights the dangers posed by drivers disregarding traffic controls, placing vulnerable road users at risk.
Gianaris Supports Fare Free Buses Amid Safety Concerns▸Governor Hochul stalls congestion pricing, leaving MTA riders in limbo. The pause threatens subway and bus service. Advocates demand any replacement funds boost operations, not highways. Riders need frequent, affordable transit—not more gridlock and pollution.
This editorial, published October 1, 2024, addresses Governor Hochul’s decision to pause congestion pricing and seek alternative funding for the MTA’s $15-billion capital plan. The article states: “If the governor wants to do the MTA and riders a favor, she should use the money she finds to instead boost MTA operations.” Author Samuel Santaella criticizes Hochul’s move, arguing it jeopardizes service for working-class New Yorkers. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and State Senator Michael Gianaris are cited as proponents of fare-free buses, while Riders Alliance pushes for six-minute service. The piece urges Hochul to reject highway expansions and instead invest in frequent, affordable transit. The editorial frames this as a fight for clean air, equity, and safety for all New Yorkers who rely on public transportation.
-
OPINION: Any Money Hochul Finds to ‘Replace’ Congestion Pricing Should Fund Fares and Frequency,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-01
Int 0346-2024Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
Council demands DOT show its work. The law forces public updates on every street safety project. No more hiding delays. No more silent cost overruns. Progress for bus riders, cyclists, and walkers must be tracked and posted.
Int 1105-2024 became law on May 10, 2025, after action by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill, sponsored by Julie Won and co-sponsored by Brooks-Powers, Hanif, Ayala, and others, amends the city code to require the Department of Transportation to post annual and monthly updates on all projects tied to the streets master plan. The law’s title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to tracking progress made towards the requirements of the streets master plan.' It forces transparency on protected bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian signals, and upgrades. The public will see delays, costs, and status. No more secrets. The mayor returned it unsigned, but the law stands.
- File Int 1105-2024, NYC Council – Legistar, Published 2024-11-13
Elderly Pedestrian Hit by Westbound Bike in Queens▸An 84-year-old woman suffered a head contusion after a collision with a westbound bicyclist on 80th Street in Queens. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was confused, contributing to the crash. The bike showed no damage, striking center front.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:49 on 80th Street near 78th Avenue in Queens. An 84-year-old female pedestrian was injured, sustaining a head contusion and classified with injury severity 3. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was noted to have pedestrian error or confusion as a contributing factor. The vehicle involved was a westbound bicycle traveling straight ahead, which struck the pedestrian at the center front end. The bike sustained no damage. The report highlights pedestrian confusion as the contributing factor, with no driver errors cited. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision. This incident underscores the risks posed by pedestrian confusion even when not in the roadway.
Gianaris Supports Safety‑Boosting Penalties for Repeat Reckless Drivers▸Police chases in Astoria’s 114 Precinct have surged. Cyclists and pedestrians pay the price. One cyclist is dead. NYPD ignores its own rules. Dangerous drivers face no real penalty. Officials and residents demand action. The city stalls. Streets stay deadly.
This report covers the sharp rise in high-speed police chases in the NYPD’s 114th Precinct, Astoria, Queens. The article, published October 28, 2024, details community outrage after a cyclist’s death and repeated injuries. NYPD policy says chases should end when risk outweighs reward, but enforcement fails. The Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program, which once forced repeat offenders into safety courses, has expired. Comptroller Brad Lander says, 'Drivers who are repeatedly caught by speed and red-light cameras currently face no consequences other than a fine in the mail. Repeat reckless drivers must be held to account.' State Senator Michael Gianaris calls for stronger penalties, including suspending registrations. The NYPD has not adopted reforms. Residents and advocates demand legislative action and transparency. Without it, vulnerable road users remain at risk.
-
Reckless: The 114 Precinct is an Island of High-Speed Chases In Queens,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-28
Sedan Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A sedan collided with a bicyclist traveling west on Myrtle Avenue near 69 Street in Queens. The bicyclist suffered contusions and bruises but remained conscious. Police cited the sedan driver’s disregard for traffic control as the cause of the crash.
According to the police report, at 8:05 AM in Queens, a 2023 sedan traveling south on 69 Street struck a bicyclist going west on Myrtle Avenue. The point of impact was the sedan's center front end and the bike's right rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 28-year-old male, was injured with contusions and bruises but was conscious and not ejected from the bike. The report identifies 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to obey traffic signals or signs. The bicyclist’s injury severity was moderate, and no contributing factors were attributed to the bicyclist. The sedan driver was licensed and operating the vehicle straight ahead before the collision. This crash highlights the dangers posed by drivers disregarding traffic controls, placing vulnerable road users at risk.
Gianaris Supports Fare Free Buses Amid Safety Concerns▸Governor Hochul stalls congestion pricing, leaving MTA riders in limbo. The pause threatens subway and bus service. Advocates demand any replacement funds boost operations, not highways. Riders need frequent, affordable transit—not more gridlock and pollution.
This editorial, published October 1, 2024, addresses Governor Hochul’s decision to pause congestion pricing and seek alternative funding for the MTA’s $15-billion capital plan. The article states: “If the governor wants to do the MTA and riders a favor, she should use the money she finds to instead boost MTA operations.” Author Samuel Santaella criticizes Hochul’s move, arguing it jeopardizes service for working-class New Yorkers. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and State Senator Michael Gianaris are cited as proponents of fare-free buses, while Riders Alliance pushes for six-minute service. The piece urges Hochul to reject highway expansions and instead invest in frequent, affordable transit. The editorial frames this as a fight for clean air, equity, and safety for all New Yorkers who rely on public transportation.
-
OPINION: Any Money Hochul Finds to ‘Replace’ Congestion Pricing Should Fund Fares and Frequency,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-01
Int 0346-2024Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
An 84-year-old woman suffered a head contusion after a collision with a westbound bicyclist on 80th Street in Queens. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was confused, contributing to the crash. The bike showed no damage, striking center front.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:49 on 80th Street near 78th Avenue in Queens. An 84-year-old female pedestrian was injured, sustaining a head contusion and classified with injury severity 3. The pedestrian was not in the roadway but was noted to have pedestrian error or confusion as a contributing factor. The vehicle involved was a westbound bicycle traveling straight ahead, which struck the pedestrian at the center front end. The bike sustained no damage. The report highlights pedestrian confusion as the contributing factor, with no driver errors cited. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision. This incident underscores the risks posed by pedestrian confusion even when not in the roadway.
Gianaris Supports Safety‑Boosting Penalties for Repeat Reckless Drivers▸Police chases in Astoria’s 114 Precinct have surged. Cyclists and pedestrians pay the price. One cyclist is dead. NYPD ignores its own rules. Dangerous drivers face no real penalty. Officials and residents demand action. The city stalls. Streets stay deadly.
This report covers the sharp rise in high-speed police chases in the NYPD’s 114th Precinct, Astoria, Queens. The article, published October 28, 2024, details community outrage after a cyclist’s death and repeated injuries. NYPD policy says chases should end when risk outweighs reward, but enforcement fails. The Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program, which once forced repeat offenders into safety courses, has expired. Comptroller Brad Lander says, 'Drivers who are repeatedly caught by speed and red-light cameras currently face no consequences other than a fine in the mail. Repeat reckless drivers must be held to account.' State Senator Michael Gianaris calls for stronger penalties, including suspending registrations. The NYPD has not adopted reforms. Residents and advocates demand legislative action and transparency. Without it, vulnerable road users remain at risk.
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Reckless: The 114 Precinct is an Island of High-Speed Chases In Queens,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-28
Sedan Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A sedan collided with a bicyclist traveling west on Myrtle Avenue near 69 Street in Queens. The bicyclist suffered contusions and bruises but remained conscious. Police cited the sedan driver’s disregard for traffic control as the cause of the crash.
According to the police report, at 8:05 AM in Queens, a 2023 sedan traveling south on 69 Street struck a bicyclist going west on Myrtle Avenue. The point of impact was the sedan's center front end and the bike's right rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 28-year-old male, was injured with contusions and bruises but was conscious and not ejected from the bike. The report identifies 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to obey traffic signals or signs. The bicyclist’s injury severity was moderate, and no contributing factors were attributed to the bicyclist. The sedan driver was licensed and operating the vehicle straight ahead before the collision. This crash highlights the dangers posed by drivers disregarding traffic controls, placing vulnerable road users at risk.
Gianaris Supports Fare Free Buses Amid Safety Concerns▸Governor Hochul stalls congestion pricing, leaving MTA riders in limbo. The pause threatens subway and bus service. Advocates demand any replacement funds boost operations, not highways. Riders need frequent, affordable transit—not more gridlock and pollution.
This editorial, published October 1, 2024, addresses Governor Hochul’s decision to pause congestion pricing and seek alternative funding for the MTA’s $15-billion capital plan. The article states: “If the governor wants to do the MTA and riders a favor, she should use the money she finds to instead boost MTA operations.” Author Samuel Santaella criticizes Hochul’s move, arguing it jeopardizes service for working-class New Yorkers. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and State Senator Michael Gianaris are cited as proponents of fare-free buses, while Riders Alliance pushes for six-minute service. The piece urges Hochul to reject highway expansions and instead invest in frequent, affordable transit. The editorial frames this as a fight for clean air, equity, and safety for all New Yorkers who rely on public transportation.
-
OPINION: Any Money Hochul Finds to ‘Replace’ Congestion Pricing Should Fund Fares and Frequency,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-01
Int 0346-2024Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
Police chases in Astoria’s 114 Precinct have surged. Cyclists and pedestrians pay the price. One cyclist is dead. NYPD ignores its own rules. Dangerous drivers face no real penalty. Officials and residents demand action. The city stalls. Streets stay deadly.
This report covers the sharp rise in high-speed police chases in the NYPD’s 114th Precinct, Astoria, Queens. The article, published October 28, 2024, details community outrage after a cyclist’s death and repeated injuries. NYPD policy says chases should end when risk outweighs reward, but enforcement fails. The Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program, which once forced repeat offenders into safety courses, has expired. Comptroller Brad Lander says, 'Drivers who are repeatedly caught by speed and red-light cameras currently face no consequences other than a fine in the mail. Repeat reckless drivers must be held to account.' State Senator Michael Gianaris calls for stronger penalties, including suspending registrations. The NYPD has not adopted reforms. Residents and advocates demand legislative action and transparency. Without it, vulnerable road users remain at risk.
- Reckless: The 114 Precinct is an Island of High-Speed Chases In Queens, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2024-10-28
Sedan Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A sedan collided with a bicyclist traveling west on Myrtle Avenue near 69 Street in Queens. The bicyclist suffered contusions and bruises but remained conscious. Police cited the sedan driver’s disregard for traffic control as the cause of the crash.
According to the police report, at 8:05 AM in Queens, a 2023 sedan traveling south on 69 Street struck a bicyclist going west on Myrtle Avenue. The point of impact was the sedan's center front end and the bike's right rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 28-year-old male, was injured with contusions and bruises but was conscious and not ejected from the bike. The report identifies 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to obey traffic signals or signs. The bicyclist’s injury severity was moderate, and no contributing factors were attributed to the bicyclist. The sedan driver was licensed and operating the vehicle straight ahead before the collision. This crash highlights the dangers posed by drivers disregarding traffic controls, placing vulnerable road users at risk.
Gianaris Supports Fare Free Buses Amid Safety Concerns▸Governor Hochul stalls congestion pricing, leaving MTA riders in limbo. The pause threatens subway and bus service. Advocates demand any replacement funds boost operations, not highways. Riders need frequent, affordable transit—not more gridlock and pollution.
This editorial, published October 1, 2024, addresses Governor Hochul’s decision to pause congestion pricing and seek alternative funding for the MTA’s $15-billion capital plan. The article states: “If the governor wants to do the MTA and riders a favor, she should use the money she finds to instead boost MTA operations.” Author Samuel Santaella criticizes Hochul’s move, arguing it jeopardizes service for working-class New Yorkers. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and State Senator Michael Gianaris are cited as proponents of fare-free buses, while Riders Alliance pushes for six-minute service. The piece urges Hochul to reject highway expansions and instead invest in frequent, affordable transit. The editorial frames this as a fight for clean air, equity, and safety for all New Yorkers who rely on public transportation.
-
OPINION: Any Money Hochul Finds to ‘Replace’ Congestion Pricing Should Fund Fares and Frequency,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-01
Int 0346-2024Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
A sedan collided with a bicyclist traveling west on Myrtle Avenue near 69 Street in Queens. The bicyclist suffered contusions and bruises but remained conscious. Police cited the sedan driver’s disregard for traffic control as the cause of the crash.
According to the police report, at 8:05 AM in Queens, a 2023 sedan traveling south on 69 Street struck a bicyclist going west on Myrtle Avenue. The point of impact was the sedan's center front end and the bike's right rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 28-year-old male, was injured with contusions and bruises but was conscious and not ejected from the bike. The report identifies 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to obey traffic signals or signs. The bicyclist’s injury severity was moderate, and no contributing factors were attributed to the bicyclist. The sedan driver was licensed and operating the vehicle straight ahead before the collision. This crash highlights the dangers posed by drivers disregarding traffic controls, placing vulnerable road users at risk.
Gianaris Supports Fare Free Buses Amid Safety Concerns▸Governor Hochul stalls congestion pricing, leaving MTA riders in limbo. The pause threatens subway and bus service. Advocates demand any replacement funds boost operations, not highways. Riders need frequent, affordable transit—not more gridlock and pollution.
This editorial, published October 1, 2024, addresses Governor Hochul’s decision to pause congestion pricing and seek alternative funding for the MTA’s $15-billion capital plan. The article states: “If the governor wants to do the MTA and riders a favor, she should use the money she finds to instead boost MTA operations.” Author Samuel Santaella criticizes Hochul’s move, arguing it jeopardizes service for working-class New Yorkers. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and State Senator Michael Gianaris are cited as proponents of fare-free buses, while Riders Alliance pushes for six-minute service. The piece urges Hochul to reject highway expansions and instead invest in frequent, affordable transit. The editorial frames this as a fight for clean air, equity, and safety for all New Yorkers who rely on public transportation.
-
OPINION: Any Money Hochul Finds to ‘Replace’ Congestion Pricing Should Fund Fares and Frequency,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-10-01
Int 0346-2024Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
Governor Hochul stalls congestion pricing, leaving MTA riders in limbo. The pause threatens subway and bus service. Advocates demand any replacement funds boost operations, not highways. Riders need frequent, affordable transit—not more gridlock and pollution.
This editorial, published October 1, 2024, addresses Governor Hochul’s decision to pause congestion pricing and seek alternative funding for the MTA’s $15-billion capital plan. The article states: “If the governor wants to do the MTA and riders a favor, she should use the money she finds to instead boost MTA operations.” Author Samuel Santaella criticizes Hochul’s move, arguing it jeopardizes service for working-class New Yorkers. Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani and State Senator Michael Gianaris are cited as proponents of fare-free buses, while Riders Alliance pushes for six-minute service. The piece urges Hochul to reject highway expansions and instead invest in frequent, affordable transit. The editorial frames this as a fight for clean air, equity, and safety for all New Yorkers who rely on public transportation.
- OPINION: Any Money Hochul Finds to ‘Replace’ Congestion Pricing Should Fund Fares and Frequency, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2024-10-01
Int 0346-2024Ariola votes no on jaywalking bill, opposing improved pedestrian safety.▸Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
-
File Int 0346-2024,
NYC Council – Legistar,
Published 2024-09-26
Council ends jaywalking penalties. Pedestrians now cross anywhere, any time. No summons. Law strips drivers of excuses. Streets shift. Power tilts to people on foot.
Int 0346-2024, now enacted, rewrites New York’s pedestrian rules. The bill, heard by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, passed on September 26, 2024, and became law on October 26, 2024. Its title: “A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to pedestrian crossing guidelines and right of way.” Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and co-sponsored by Narcisse, Won, Hanif, Hudson, and Restler, the law lets pedestrians cross streets anywhere, even against signals. No more tickets for crossing outside crosswalks. The Department of Transportation must educate all street users on new rights and responsibilities. The law removes a tool police used to target walkers. It shifts blame from people on foot to the system and those behind the wheel.
- File Int 0346-2024, NYC Council – Legistar, Published 2024-09-26