Who’s Injuring and Killing Pedestrians in Forest Hills?
Forest Hills Bleeds: Speed Kills, Leaders Stall
Forest Hills: Jan 1, 2022 - Jun 4, 2025
The Numbers Don’t Lie
One death. Five serious injuries. 631 people hurt. That is the toll of traffic violence in Forest Hills since 2022. These are not just numbers—they are bodies broken, lives changed. In the last year alone, 212 people were injured here. Four suffered injuries so severe they may never walk the same again. No one died in the last twelve months, but luck will not hold.
Who Pays the Price
Pedestrians and cyclists take the brunt. An 18-year-old was killed by an SUV on the Long Island Expressway. A 16-year-old girl, crossing with the light, was struck by a bus on Yellowstone Boulevard. A cyclist’s face was torn open in a crash with a van on 108th Street. These are not rare events—they are the drumbeat of daily life in Forest Hills. See the data.
The Vehicles That Wound and Kill
SUVs, sedans, trucks, buses, bikes, mopeds. In Forest Hills, SUVs and cars caused the only death and most serious injuries. Trucks and buses left two people with life-altering wounds. Bikes and mopeds hurt others. The street does not forgive mistakes, and the biggest machines do the most harm.
What Has Been Done—And What Hasn’t
Local leaders talk of Vision Zero. The city touts new speed limits, more cameras, and intersection redesigns. But in Forest Hills, the carnage continues. The numbers do not move fast enough. The city has the power to lower speed limits to 20 mph. It has not used it here. Cameras catch speeders, but only where they are installed. The rest of the streets are left to chance.
The Call
This is not fate. Every injury, every death, is preventable. Demand more. Call your council member. Call the mayor. Tell them to lower the speed limit, build real protection for people on foot and bike, and keep the cameras running. Do not wait for another body in the road. Take action now.
Citations
Other Representatives
District 28
70-50 Austin St. Suite 114, Forest Hills, NY 11375
Room 626, Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY 12248
District 29
71-19 80th Street, Suite 8-303, Glendale, NY 11385
718-544-8800
250 Broadway, Suite 1840, New York, NY 10007
212-788-6981
District 15
66-85 73rd Place, Middle Village, NY 11379
Room 811, Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY 12247
▸ Other Geographies
Forest Hills Forest Hills sits in Queens, Precinct 112, District 29, AD 28, SD 15, Queens CB6.
▸ See also
Traffic Safety Timeline for Forest Hills
Pedestrian Injured in Left-Turn Pickup Crash▸A 28-year-old woman was hit at an intersection on Metropolitan Avenue. The pickup truck, making a left turn, struck her on the left rear bumper. She suffered bruises and injuries to her knee and lower leg. The driver failed to yield right-of-way.
According to the police report, a 28-year-old female pedestrian was injured at the intersection of Metropolitan Avenue and Union Turnpike. The driver of a 2021 Ford pickup truck, traveling south and making a left turn, struck her with the vehicle's left rear bumper. The pedestrian sustained contusions and injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as a contributing factor to the crash. The driver was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. No damage was reported to the vehicle. The pedestrian was conscious and suffered moderate injuries. No other contributing factors such as helmet use or signaling were noted.
Taxi Hits 12-Year-Old Crossing 70 Road▸A taxi struck a 12-year-old boy at 70 Road in Queens. The child, crossing against the signal, suffered facial abrasions. The taxi hit him head-on. He stayed conscious. No driver errors listed.
According to the police report, a 12-year-old boy was hit by a taxi while crossing 70 Road in Queens. The taxi, a 2017 Ford, was traveling west and struck the child with its center front end. The boy was crossing against the signal and suffered abrasions to his face but remained conscious. The report lists no contributing factors or errors for the driver. The driver was licensed and going straight. No other vehicles were involved.
Two Sedans Collide on Ingram Street▸Two sedans traveling north collided on Ingram Street. The right rear bumper of one struck the left front bumper of the other. A 30-year-old female front passenger suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Driver distraction caused the crash.
According to the police report, two sedans traveling north on Ingram Street collided. The impact occurred between the right rear bumper of one vehicle and the left front bumper of the other. A 30-year-old female front passenger was injured, suffering neck trauma and whiplash, and was not ejected from the vehicle. Both drivers were licensed men. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. The injured passenger was restrained with a lap belt and harness. No other contributing factors were noted.
Katz Supports Tougher Penalties Against Reckless Drivers▸Police arrested Ibrahim Chaaban in Bay Ridge after he did donuts on Shore Road. His car had racked up 12 school-zone speeding tickets since June. Council Member Brannan and DA Katz slammed weak penalties. Most reckless drivers still face little consequence. Streets remain dangerous.
On October 21, 2022, police in Bay Ridge arrested Ibrahim Chaaban for reckless driving after he performed donuts on Shore Road. The car had received at least 12 school-zone speeding tickets since June 21, but authorities failed to intervene until this incident. Council Member Justin Brannan reported the arrest, saying, "It seems the various systems currently in place to deter this type of behavior have failed here." Brannan and Queens DA Melinda Katz both criticized the current penalties, calling them too weak to deter dangerous drivers. Katz said, "There is a strong need for tougher penalties for those who choose to use our city streets as raceways." The article notes that only after 15 camera-issued speeding tickets in a year must drivers take a safety course, and few cars are seized under the Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program. Community complaints led to the arrest, but most reckless drivers still evade real consequences.
-
One Down, Thousands to Go: Cops Bust A Really Bad Driver For Doing Less-Dangerous Stupid Thing,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-10-21
3SUV Slams Into SUV on Expressway▸Rear SUV struck front SUV hard. Three inside front vehicle hurt with whiplash and body trauma. Police cite tailgating and distraction. All stayed conscious. All wore belts.
According to the police report, two SUVs collided on the Long Island Expressway when the rear vehicle hit the center back end of the front SUV. Three people in the front SUV, including the driver and two passengers, suffered whiplash and full-body injuries. All were conscious and wore lap belts and harnesses. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors for the rear driver's actions. No driver errors were noted for the front vehicle's driver or passengers. No one was ejected.
SUV Strikes Pedestrian Crossing With Signal▸A 41-year-old woman was hit by an SUV making a left turn on Metropolitan Avenue in Queens. She was crossing with the signal when the vehicle failed to yield. The impact caused head injuries and fractures. The driver’s error was clear.
According to the police report, a 41-year-old female pedestrian was injured at the intersection of Metropolitan Avenue and 71 Avenue in Queens. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal when a 2018 Honda SUV, driven by a licensed male driver from South Carolina, made a left turn and struck her with the center front end of the vehicle. The pedestrian suffered head injuries and fractures, leaving her semiconscious at the scene. The report lists the driver’s failure to yield right-of-way as the contributing factor. There is no mention of any contributing factors related to the pedestrian. The crash caused significant vehicle damage to the front center of the SUV.
Distracted Sedan Driver Strikes Cyclist in Queens▸A sedan hit a 52-year-old woman on a bike along Greenway South. She suffered broken bones and dislocations in her leg and foot. Police cite driver distraction. The cyclist stayed conscious. Metal met flesh. The street stayed silent.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Greenway South struck a 52-year-old female bicyclist riding southwest. The cyclist suffered fractures and dislocations to her knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. The sedan's right front quarter panel hit the bike's left front bumper. The bicyclist was conscious and not ejected. No other contributing factors or safety equipment details were noted. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash.
SUV Driver Injured in Yellowstone Boulevard Crash▸A 41-year-old male driver suffered chest injuries in a crash on Yellowstone Boulevard. The SUV struck an object with its left front bumper. The driver was incoherent but not ejected. Police cited driver inattention and improper lane usage as causes.
According to the police report, a 41-year-old male driver in a 2008 Nissan SUV traveling north on Yellowstone Boulevard was injured when his vehicle impacted an object with the left front bumper. The driver sustained chest injuries and was incoherent at the scene but remained inside the vehicle, secured by a lap belt. The report lists driver inattention and improper passing or lane usage as contributing factors. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved. The crash highlights the dangers of distracted driving and improper lane maneuvers in this area.
Unlicensed Driver Backs Into Sedan in Queens▸A sedan backing unsafely struck another sedan traveling south on Burns Street in Queens. The driver of the struck vehicle suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The backing driver was unlicensed. Both vehicles sustained damage to their right sides.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling south on Burns Street was hit on its right front bumper by another sedan backing east. The backing driver was unlicensed and caused the collision by backing unsafely. The driver of the struck vehicle, a 31-year-old man wearing a lap belt and harness, suffered neck injuries and complained of whiplash. The collision damaged the right front bumper of the struck vehicle and the right rear quarter panel of the backing vehicle. The report lists the contributing factor as "Backing Unsafely" and notes the backing driver was unlicensed. No other factors or victim errors were cited.
Sedan Rear-Ends Pickup Truck on Expressway▸A sedan slammed into the back of a pickup truck on the Long Island Expressway. The front passenger in the sedan, a 73-year-old man, suffered a back injury and shock. The crash was caused by following too closely.
According to the police report, a 2022 sedan traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a 2022 pickup truck going in the same direction. The front passenger in the sedan, a 73-year-old man, was injured with back trauma and experienced shock. The report lists "Following Too Closely" as the contributing factor to the collision. Both vehicles were moving straight ahead at the time of impact. The injured passenger was restrained by a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. The driver of the sedan was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
2SUVs Rear-End Crash on Long Island Expressway▸Two SUVs collided on the Long Island Expressway. Both drivers were traveling east. The impact caused neck injuries and whiplash to a driver and passenger. Police cited driver inattention and following too closely as causes.
According to the police report, two sport utility vehicles collided on the Long Island Expressway while traveling east. The crash involved rear-end impacts, with one SUV striking the center back end of another. Two occupants were injured: a 37-year-old male driver and a 36-year-old female passenger. Both suffered neck injuries and whiplash but were conscious and not ejected. The report lists multiple contributing factors, including 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' These driver errors led directly to the collision. Both occupants were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. No other factors or victim actions were noted in the report.
Pedestrian Hit Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 28-year-old woman was struck by a sedan making a right turn on Queens Boulevard. She was crossing with the signal when the driver failed to yield and was distracted. The pedestrian suffered abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis.
According to the police report, a 28-year-old female pedestrian was injured while crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection in Queens. The sedan, traveling east and making a right turn, struck her with its right front bumper. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal and was not ejected but sustained abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis. The report lists driver errors as Failure to Yield Right-of-Way and Driver Inattention/Distraction. No other contributing factors such as helmet use or signaling were noted. The driver’s failure to yield and distraction caused the collision, resulting in moderate injury to the pedestrian.
SUV Rear-Ends Sedan on Long Island Expressway▸A 59-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on the Long Island Expressway. The SUV struck the sedan from behind. The driver was conscious and restrained. The collision caused whiplash and front-end damage to the SUV.
According to the police report, a station wagon/SUV traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a sedan going in the same direction. The 59-year-old male driver of the SUV was injured, sustaining neck trauma and whiplash. The report lists driver inattention/distraction and following too closely as contributing factors. The driver was wearing a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. Both vehicles sustained center-end damage, with the SUV impacting the sedan's rear. No other injuries or pedestrians were involved.
Comrie Warns Against Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions▸Lawmakers spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want tight limits. Others push for taxi exemptions and tunnel credits. Advocates warn: too many carve-outs gut the plan. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, New York officials debated congestion pricing exemptions as the policy neared implementation. The discussion, covered by Streetsblog NYC, highlighted shifting positions. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once opposed to exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll said, "I think that there should be limited exemptions." State Senator Andrew Gounardes added, "Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible." Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine backed toll credits for tunnel users and taxi exemptions. Taxi and for-hire drivers lobbied for relief, citing existing surcharges. Advocacy groups warned against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide on further exemptions after federal review. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-08-26
Comrie Warns Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions Create Major Problems▸Council and state leaders spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want carve-outs. Others warn exemptions gut the plan. Vulnerable road users wait as drivers fight for special treatment. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, the council held a public debate on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, titled 'Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,' drew sharp lines. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once a hardliner against exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll backs limited carve-outs, saying, 'I think that there should be limited exemptions.' State Senator Andrew Gounardes stresses, 'Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible.' Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine pushes for toll credits and taxi exemptions. Advocacy groups warn against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide after federal review. The debate centers on who pays and who gets a pass, while the safety of people outside cars hangs in the balance.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2022-08-26
SUV Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist suffered facial bruises after a collision with a 2019 SUV on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV hit the bike’s center front while traveling west. Driver inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety gear.
According to the police report, a 27-year-old male bicyclist was injured when a 2019 Honda SUV struck him on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV was traveling west and impacted the bike’s center front end. The bicyclist, traveling north, suffered contusions and bruises to his face. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. It also notes some confusion or error on the part of the bicyclist but does not assign blame. The bicyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. The SUV sustained damage to its left rear quarter panel. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving in mixed traffic environments.
E-Scooter Rider Injured in Sedan Collision▸A 24-year-old male e-scooter rider was struck by a westbound sedan on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider suffered knee and lower leg injuries but remained conscious. Police cited driver distraction and rider confusion as contributing factors in the crash.
According to the police report, a 24-year-old male e-scooter driver was injured in a collision with a 2012 Nissan sedan traveling west on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider, wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his knee and lower leg but was conscious at the scene. The sedan struck the e-scooter with its right front bumper. Police identified driver inattention or distraction and pedestrian/bicyclist confusion as contributing factors. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The e-scooter rider was also moving straight ahead when the crash occurred. The report does not assign fault to the rider but highlights errors on both sides.
Two Sedans Collide on Olcott Street, Passenger Injured▸Two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The impact struck the left side doors of one vehicle. A 31-year-old female passenger suffered a back injury and shock. The crash involved failure to yield and driver distraction.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The point of impact was the left side doors of one vehicle and the center front end of the other. A 31-year-old female passenger in the right rear seat was injured, sustaining a back injury and shock. She was not ejected and was secured with a lap belt and harness. The report lists driver errors as failure to yield right-of-way and driver inattention or distraction. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash. The collision caused damage to the left side doors of one sedan and the front center of the other.
Comrie Supports Safety Boosting Penn Station Redevelopment Plan▸State authorities greenlit Governor Hochul’s Penn Station overhaul. The plan promises new towers, apartments, and a $7 billion station revamp. Senator Leroy Comrie backed the initial funding deal but demands federal support for future phases. Critics warn of secrecy and developer giveaways.
On July 27, 2022, the state’s Public Authorities Control Board approved Governor Kathy Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment plan. The project, described as a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity,' includes 18 million square feet of new office towers, 1,800 apartments, a $7 billion station upgrade, and promises of walkable streets and bike lanes. State Senator Leroy Comrie, representing District 14, voted for the initial PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement but pledged not to support future deals without federal funding and approvals. The plan faces criticism from watchdogs and officials like State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office, who called for a delay due to limited financial details. Reinvent Albany slammed the process for lacking transparency and questioned the reliance on developer tax breaks. The redevelopment’s impact on vulnerable road users remains unassessed.
-
State oversight body approves Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment,
amny.com,
Published 2022-07-27
Comrie Opposes Congestion Pricing Exemptions Safety Boosting▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie drew a hard line. No exemptions for Manhattan’s congestion tolls. He stood firm as others called for carve-outs. His stance means every car pays. No relief for drivers. The city’s most vulnerable stay in the crosshairs.
On June 29, 2022, State Senator Leroy Comrie made a public statement on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, covered by nypost.com, centers on calls from Mayor Eric Adams for more exemptions to the Manhattan congestion tolls. Adams argued, 'there should be a level of exemptions... so that we’re not overburdening New Yorkers.' But Comrie rejected this, stating, 'I don’t think there should be any exemptions, and I’m going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' The congestion pricing plan, passed in 2019, already exempts emergency vehicles, vehicles carrying disabled New Yorkers, and low-income residents inside the zone. Comrie’s stance keeps the system strict. No new carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board may still consider more, but Comrie’s position is clear: every driver pays the toll, no exceptions.
-
NYC Mayor Eric Adams calls for ‘exemptions’ to Manhattan congestion fees,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-06-29
A 28-year-old woman was hit at an intersection on Metropolitan Avenue. The pickup truck, making a left turn, struck her on the left rear bumper. She suffered bruises and injuries to her knee and lower leg. The driver failed to yield right-of-way.
According to the police report, a 28-year-old female pedestrian was injured at the intersection of Metropolitan Avenue and Union Turnpike. The driver of a 2021 Ford pickup truck, traveling south and making a left turn, struck her with the vehicle's left rear bumper. The pedestrian sustained contusions and injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as a contributing factor to the crash. The driver was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. No damage was reported to the vehicle. The pedestrian was conscious and suffered moderate injuries. No other contributing factors such as helmet use or signaling were noted.
Taxi Hits 12-Year-Old Crossing 70 Road▸A taxi struck a 12-year-old boy at 70 Road in Queens. The child, crossing against the signal, suffered facial abrasions. The taxi hit him head-on. He stayed conscious. No driver errors listed.
According to the police report, a 12-year-old boy was hit by a taxi while crossing 70 Road in Queens. The taxi, a 2017 Ford, was traveling west and struck the child with its center front end. The boy was crossing against the signal and suffered abrasions to his face but remained conscious. The report lists no contributing factors or errors for the driver. The driver was licensed and going straight. No other vehicles were involved.
Two Sedans Collide on Ingram Street▸Two sedans traveling north collided on Ingram Street. The right rear bumper of one struck the left front bumper of the other. A 30-year-old female front passenger suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Driver distraction caused the crash.
According to the police report, two sedans traveling north on Ingram Street collided. The impact occurred between the right rear bumper of one vehicle and the left front bumper of the other. A 30-year-old female front passenger was injured, suffering neck trauma and whiplash, and was not ejected from the vehicle. Both drivers were licensed men. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. The injured passenger was restrained with a lap belt and harness. No other contributing factors were noted.
Katz Supports Tougher Penalties Against Reckless Drivers▸Police arrested Ibrahim Chaaban in Bay Ridge after he did donuts on Shore Road. His car had racked up 12 school-zone speeding tickets since June. Council Member Brannan and DA Katz slammed weak penalties. Most reckless drivers still face little consequence. Streets remain dangerous.
On October 21, 2022, police in Bay Ridge arrested Ibrahim Chaaban for reckless driving after he performed donuts on Shore Road. The car had received at least 12 school-zone speeding tickets since June 21, but authorities failed to intervene until this incident. Council Member Justin Brannan reported the arrest, saying, "It seems the various systems currently in place to deter this type of behavior have failed here." Brannan and Queens DA Melinda Katz both criticized the current penalties, calling them too weak to deter dangerous drivers. Katz said, "There is a strong need for tougher penalties for those who choose to use our city streets as raceways." The article notes that only after 15 camera-issued speeding tickets in a year must drivers take a safety course, and few cars are seized under the Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program. Community complaints led to the arrest, but most reckless drivers still evade real consequences.
-
One Down, Thousands to Go: Cops Bust A Really Bad Driver For Doing Less-Dangerous Stupid Thing,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-10-21
3SUV Slams Into SUV on Expressway▸Rear SUV struck front SUV hard. Three inside front vehicle hurt with whiplash and body trauma. Police cite tailgating and distraction. All stayed conscious. All wore belts.
According to the police report, two SUVs collided on the Long Island Expressway when the rear vehicle hit the center back end of the front SUV. Three people in the front SUV, including the driver and two passengers, suffered whiplash and full-body injuries. All were conscious and wore lap belts and harnesses. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors for the rear driver's actions. No driver errors were noted for the front vehicle's driver or passengers. No one was ejected.
SUV Strikes Pedestrian Crossing With Signal▸A 41-year-old woman was hit by an SUV making a left turn on Metropolitan Avenue in Queens. She was crossing with the signal when the vehicle failed to yield. The impact caused head injuries and fractures. The driver’s error was clear.
According to the police report, a 41-year-old female pedestrian was injured at the intersection of Metropolitan Avenue and 71 Avenue in Queens. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal when a 2018 Honda SUV, driven by a licensed male driver from South Carolina, made a left turn and struck her with the center front end of the vehicle. The pedestrian suffered head injuries and fractures, leaving her semiconscious at the scene. The report lists the driver’s failure to yield right-of-way as the contributing factor. There is no mention of any contributing factors related to the pedestrian. The crash caused significant vehicle damage to the front center of the SUV.
Distracted Sedan Driver Strikes Cyclist in Queens▸A sedan hit a 52-year-old woman on a bike along Greenway South. She suffered broken bones and dislocations in her leg and foot. Police cite driver distraction. The cyclist stayed conscious. Metal met flesh. The street stayed silent.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Greenway South struck a 52-year-old female bicyclist riding southwest. The cyclist suffered fractures and dislocations to her knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. The sedan's right front quarter panel hit the bike's left front bumper. The bicyclist was conscious and not ejected. No other contributing factors or safety equipment details were noted. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash.
SUV Driver Injured in Yellowstone Boulevard Crash▸A 41-year-old male driver suffered chest injuries in a crash on Yellowstone Boulevard. The SUV struck an object with its left front bumper. The driver was incoherent but not ejected. Police cited driver inattention and improper lane usage as causes.
According to the police report, a 41-year-old male driver in a 2008 Nissan SUV traveling north on Yellowstone Boulevard was injured when his vehicle impacted an object with the left front bumper. The driver sustained chest injuries and was incoherent at the scene but remained inside the vehicle, secured by a lap belt. The report lists driver inattention and improper passing or lane usage as contributing factors. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved. The crash highlights the dangers of distracted driving and improper lane maneuvers in this area.
Unlicensed Driver Backs Into Sedan in Queens▸A sedan backing unsafely struck another sedan traveling south on Burns Street in Queens. The driver of the struck vehicle suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The backing driver was unlicensed. Both vehicles sustained damage to their right sides.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling south on Burns Street was hit on its right front bumper by another sedan backing east. The backing driver was unlicensed and caused the collision by backing unsafely. The driver of the struck vehicle, a 31-year-old man wearing a lap belt and harness, suffered neck injuries and complained of whiplash. The collision damaged the right front bumper of the struck vehicle and the right rear quarter panel of the backing vehicle. The report lists the contributing factor as "Backing Unsafely" and notes the backing driver was unlicensed. No other factors or victim errors were cited.
Sedan Rear-Ends Pickup Truck on Expressway▸A sedan slammed into the back of a pickup truck on the Long Island Expressway. The front passenger in the sedan, a 73-year-old man, suffered a back injury and shock. The crash was caused by following too closely.
According to the police report, a 2022 sedan traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a 2022 pickup truck going in the same direction. The front passenger in the sedan, a 73-year-old man, was injured with back trauma and experienced shock. The report lists "Following Too Closely" as the contributing factor to the collision. Both vehicles were moving straight ahead at the time of impact. The injured passenger was restrained by a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. The driver of the sedan was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
2SUVs Rear-End Crash on Long Island Expressway▸Two SUVs collided on the Long Island Expressway. Both drivers were traveling east. The impact caused neck injuries and whiplash to a driver and passenger. Police cited driver inattention and following too closely as causes.
According to the police report, two sport utility vehicles collided on the Long Island Expressway while traveling east. The crash involved rear-end impacts, with one SUV striking the center back end of another. Two occupants were injured: a 37-year-old male driver and a 36-year-old female passenger. Both suffered neck injuries and whiplash but were conscious and not ejected. The report lists multiple contributing factors, including 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' These driver errors led directly to the collision. Both occupants were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. No other factors or victim actions were noted in the report.
Pedestrian Hit Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 28-year-old woman was struck by a sedan making a right turn on Queens Boulevard. She was crossing with the signal when the driver failed to yield and was distracted. The pedestrian suffered abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis.
According to the police report, a 28-year-old female pedestrian was injured while crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection in Queens. The sedan, traveling east and making a right turn, struck her with its right front bumper. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal and was not ejected but sustained abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis. The report lists driver errors as Failure to Yield Right-of-Way and Driver Inattention/Distraction. No other contributing factors such as helmet use or signaling were noted. The driver’s failure to yield and distraction caused the collision, resulting in moderate injury to the pedestrian.
SUV Rear-Ends Sedan on Long Island Expressway▸A 59-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on the Long Island Expressway. The SUV struck the sedan from behind. The driver was conscious and restrained. The collision caused whiplash and front-end damage to the SUV.
According to the police report, a station wagon/SUV traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a sedan going in the same direction. The 59-year-old male driver of the SUV was injured, sustaining neck trauma and whiplash. The report lists driver inattention/distraction and following too closely as contributing factors. The driver was wearing a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. Both vehicles sustained center-end damage, with the SUV impacting the sedan's rear. No other injuries or pedestrians were involved.
Comrie Warns Against Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions▸Lawmakers spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want tight limits. Others push for taxi exemptions and tunnel credits. Advocates warn: too many carve-outs gut the plan. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, New York officials debated congestion pricing exemptions as the policy neared implementation. The discussion, covered by Streetsblog NYC, highlighted shifting positions. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once opposed to exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll said, "I think that there should be limited exemptions." State Senator Andrew Gounardes added, "Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible." Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine backed toll credits for tunnel users and taxi exemptions. Taxi and for-hire drivers lobbied for relief, citing existing surcharges. Advocacy groups warned against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide on further exemptions after federal review. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-08-26
Comrie Warns Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions Create Major Problems▸Council and state leaders spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want carve-outs. Others warn exemptions gut the plan. Vulnerable road users wait as drivers fight for special treatment. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, the council held a public debate on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, titled 'Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,' drew sharp lines. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once a hardliner against exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll backs limited carve-outs, saying, 'I think that there should be limited exemptions.' State Senator Andrew Gounardes stresses, 'Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible.' Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine pushes for toll credits and taxi exemptions. Advocacy groups warn against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide after federal review. The debate centers on who pays and who gets a pass, while the safety of people outside cars hangs in the balance.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2022-08-26
SUV Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist suffered facial bruises after a collision with a 2019 SUV on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV hit the bike’s center front while traveling west. Driver inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety gear.
According to the police report, a 27-year-old male bicyclist was injured when a 2019 Honda SUV struck him on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV was traveling west and impacted the bike’s center front end. The bicyclist, traveling north, suffered contusions and bruises to his face. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. It also notes some confusion or error on the part of the bicyclist but does not assign blame. The bicyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. The SUV sustained damage to its left rear quarter panel. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving in mixed traffic environments.
E-Scooter Rider Injured in Sedan Collision▸A 24-year-old male e-scooter rider was struck by a westbound sedan on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider suffered knee and lower leg injuries but remained conscious. Police cited driver distraction and rider confusion as contributing factors in the crash.
According to the police report, a 24-year-old male e-scooter driver was injured in a collision with a 2012 Nissan sedan traveling west on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider, wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his knee and lower leg but was conscious at the scene. The sedan struck the e-scooter with its right front bumper. Police identified driver inattention or distraction and pedestrian/bicyclist confusion as contributing factors. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The e-scooter rider was also moving straight ahead when the crash occurred. The report does not assign fault to the rider but highlights errors on both sides.
Two Sedans Collide on Olcott Street, Passenger Injured▸Two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The impact struck the left side doors of one vehicle. A 31-year-old female passenger suffered a back injury and shock. The crash involved failure to yield and driver distraction.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The point of impact was the left side doors of one vehicle and the center front end of the other. A 31-year-old female passenger in the right rear seat was injured, sustaining a back injury and shock. She was not ejected and was secured with a lap belt and harness. The report lists driver errors as failure to yield right-of-way and driver inattention or distraction. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash. The collision caused damage to the left side doors of one sedan and the front center of the other.
Comrie Supports Safety Boosting Penn Station Redevelopment Plan▸State authorities greenlit Governor Hochul’s Penn Station overhaul. The plan promises new towers, apartments, and a $7 billion station revamp. Senator Leroy Comrie backed the initial funding deal but demands federal support for future phases. Critics warn of secrecy and developer giveaways.
On July 27, 2022, the state’s Public Authorities Control Board approved Governor Kathy Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment plan. The project, described as a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity,' includes 18 million square feet of new office towers, 1,800 apartments, a $7 billion station upgrade, and promises of walkable streets and bike lanes. State Senator Leroy Comrie, representing District 14, voted for the initial PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement but pledged not to support future deals without federal funding and approvals. The plan faces criticism from watchdogs and officials like State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office, who called for a delay due to limited financial details. Reinvent Albany slammed the process for lacking transparency and questioned the reliance on developer tax breaks. The redevelopment’s impact on vulnerable road users remains unassessed.
-
State oversight body approves Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment,
amny.com,
Published 2022-07-27
Comrie Opposes Congestion Pricing Exemptions Safety Boosting▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie drew a hard line. No exemptions for Manhattan’s congestion tolls. He stood firm as others called for carve-outs. His stance means every car pays. No relief for drivers. The city’s most vulnerable stay in the crosshairs.
On June 29, 2022, State Senator Leroy Comrie made a public statement on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, covered by nypost.com, centers on calls from Mayor Eric Adams for more exemptions to the Manhattan congestion tolls. Adams argued, 'there should be a level of exemptions... so that we’re not overburdening New Yorkers.' But Comrie rejected this, stating, 'I don’t think there should be any exemptions, and I’m going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' The congestion pricing plan, passed in 2019, already exempts emergency vehicles, vehicles carrying disabled New Yorkers, and low-income residents inside the zone. Comrie’s stance keeps the system strict. No new carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board may still consider more, but Comrie’s position is clear: every driver pays the toll, no exceptions.
-
NYC Mayor Eric Adams calls for ‘exemptions’ to Manhattan congestion fees,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-06-29
A taxi struck a 12-year-old boy at 70 Road in Queens. The child, crossing against the signal, suffered facial abrasions. The taxi hit him head-on. He stayed conscious. No driver errors listed.
According to the police report, a 12-year-old boy was hit by a taxi while crossing 70 Road in Queens. The taxi, a 2017 Ford, was traveling west and struck the child with its center front end. The boy was crossing against the signal and suffered abrasions to his face but remained conscious. The report lists no contributing factors or errors for the driver. The driver was licensed and going straight. No other vehicles were involved.
Two Sedans Collide on Ingram Street▸Two sedans traveling north collided on Ingram Street. The right rear bumper of one struck the left front bumper of the other. A 30-year-old female front passenger suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Driver distraction caused the crash.
According to the police report, two sedans traveling north on Ingram Street collided. The impact occurred between the right rear bumper of one vehicle and the left front bumper of the other. A 30-year-old female front passenger was injured, suffering neck trauma and whiplash, and was not ejected from the vehicle. Both drivers were licensed men. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. The injured passenger was restrained with a lap belt and harness. No other contributing factors were noted.
Katz Supports Tougher Penalties Against Reckless Drivers▸Police arrested Ibrahim Chaaban in Bay Ridge after he did donuts on Shore Road. His car had racked up 12 school-zone speeding tickets since June. Council Member Brannan and DA Katz slammed weak penalties. Most reckless drivers still face little consequence. Streets remain dangerous.
On October 21, 2022, police in Bay Ridge arrested Ibrahim Chaaban for reckless driving after he performed donuts on Shore Road. The car had received at least 12 school-zone speeding tickets since June 21, but authorities failed to intervene until this incident. Council Member Justin Brannan reported the arrest, saying, "It seems the various systems currently in place to deter this type of behavior have failed here." Brannan and Queens DA Melinda Katz both criticized the current penalties, calling them too weak to deter dangerous drivers. Katz said, "There is a strong need for tougher penalties for those who choose to use our city streets as raceways." The article notes that only after 15 camera-issued speeding tickets in a year must drivers take a safety course, and few cars are seized under the Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program. Community complaints led to the arrest, but most reckless drivers still evade real consequences.
-
One Down, Thousands to Go: Cops Bust A Really Bad Driver For Doing Less-Dangerous Stupid Thing,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-10-21
3SUV Slams Into SUV on Expressway▸Rear SUV struck front SUV hard. Three inside front vehicle hurt with whiplash and body trauma. Police cite tailgating and distraction. All stayed conscious. All wore belts.
According to the police report, two SUVs collided on the Long Island Expressway when the rear vehicle hit the center back end of the front SUV. Three people in the front SUV, including the driver and two passengers, suffered whiplash and full-body injuries. All were conscious and wore lap belts and harnesses. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors for the rear driver's actions. No driver errors were noted for the front vehicle's driver or passengers. No one was ejected.
SUV Strikes Pedestrian Crossing With Signal▸A 41-year-old woman was hit by an SUV making a left turn on Metropolitan Avenue in Queens. She was crossing with the signal when the vehicle failed to yield. The impact caused head injuries and fractures. The driver’s error was clear.
According to the police report, a 41-year-old female pedestrian was injured at the intersection of Metropolitan Avenue and 71 Avenue in Queens. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal when a 2018 Honda SUV, driven by a licensed male driver from South Carolina, made a left turn and struck her with the center front end of the vehicle. The pedestrian suffered head injuries and fractures, leaving her semiconscious at the scene. The report lists the driver’s failure to yield right-of-way as the contributing factor. There is no mention of any contributing factors related to the pedestrian. The crash caused significant vehicle damage to the front center of the SUV.
Distracted Sedan Driver Strikes Cyclist in Queens▸A sedan hit a 52-year-old woman on a bike along Greenway South. She suffered broken bones and dislocations in her leg and foot. Police cite driver distraction. The cyclist stayed conscious. Metal met flesh. The street stayed silent.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Greenway South struck a 52-year-old female bicyclist riding southwest. The cyclist suffered fractures and dislocations to her knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. The sedan's right front quarter panel hit the bike's left front bumper. The bicyclist was conscious and not ejected. No other contributing factors or safety equipment details were noted. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash.
SUV Driver Injured in Yellowstone Boulevard Crash▸A 41-year-old male driver suffered chest injuries in a crash on Yellowstone Boulevard. The SUV struck an object with its left front bumper. The driver was incoherent but not ejected. Police cited driver inattention and improper lane usage as causes.
According to the police report, a 41-year-old male driver in a 2008 Nissan SUV traveling north on Yellowstone Boulevard was injured when his vehicle impacted an object with the left front bumper. The driver sustained chest injuries and was incoherent at the scene but remained inside the vehicle, secured by a lap belt. The report lists driver inattention and improper passing or lane usage as contributing factors. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved. The crash highlights the dangers of distracted driving and improper lane maneuvers in this area.
Unlicensed Driver Backs Into Sedan in Queens▸A sedan backing unsafely struck another sedan traveling south on Burns Street in Queens. The driver of the struck vehicle suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The backing driver was unlicensed. Both vehicles sustained damage to their right sides.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling south on Burns Street was hit on its right front bumper by another sedan backing east. The backing driver was unlicensed and caused the collision by backing unsafely. The driver of the struck vehicle, a 31-year-old man wearing a lap belt and harness, suffered neck injuries and complained of whiplash. The collision damaged the right front bumper of the struck vehicle and the right rear quarter panel of the backing vehicle. The report lists the contributing factor as "Backing Unsafely" and notes the backing driver was unlicensed. No other factors or victim errors were cited.
Sedan Rear-Ends Pickup Truck on Expressway▸A sedan slammed into the back of a pickup truck on the Long Island Expressway. The front passenger in the sedan, a 73-year-old man, suffered a back injury and shock. The crash was caused by following too closely.
According to the police report, a 2022 sedan traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a 2022 pickup truck going in the same direction. The front passenger in the sedan, a 73-year-old man, was injured with back trauma and experienced shock. The report lists "Following Too Closely" as the contributing factor to the collision. Both vehicles were moving straight ahead at the time of impact. The injured passenger was restrained by a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. The driver of the sedan was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
2SUVs Rear-End Crash on Long Island Expressway▸Two SUVs collided on the Long Island Expressway. Both drivers were traveling east. The impact caused neck injuries and whiplash to a driver and passenger. Police cited driver inattention and following too closely as causes.
According to the police report, two sport utility vehicles collided on the Long Island Expressway while traveling east. The crash involved rear-end impacts, with one SUV striking the center back end of another. Two occupants were injured: a 37-year-old male driver and a 36-year-old female passenger. Both suffered neck injuries and whiplash but were conscious and not ejected. The report lists multiple contributing factors, including 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' These driver errors led directly to the collision. Both occupants were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. No other factors or victim actions were noted in the report.
Pedestrian Hit Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 28-year-old woman was struck by a sedan making a right turn on Queens Boulevard. She was crossing with the signal when the driver failed to yield and was distracted. The pedestrian suffered abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis.
According to the police report, a 28-year-old female pedestrian was injured while crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection in Queens. The sedan, traveling east and making a right turn, struck her with its right front bumper. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal and was not ejected but sustained abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis. The report lists driver errors as Failure to Yield Right-of-Way and Driver Inattention/Distraction. No other contributing factors such as helmet use or signaling were noted. The driver’s failure to yield and distraction caused the collision, resulting in moderate injury to the pedestrian.
SUV Rear-Ends Sedan on Long Island Expressway▸A 59-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on the Long Island Expressway. The SUV struck the sedan from behind. The driver was conscious and restrained. The collision caused whiplash and front-end damage to the SUV.
According to the police report, a station wagon/SUV traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a sedan going in the same direction. The 59-year-old male driver of the SUV was injured, sustaining neck trauma and whiplash. The report lists driver inattention/distraction and following too closely as contributing factors. The driver was wearing a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. Both vehicles sustained center-end damage, with the SUV impacting the sedan's rear. No other injuries or pedestrians were involved.
Comrie Warns Against Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions▸Lawmakers spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want tight limits. Others push for taxi exemptions and tunnel credits. Advocates warn: too many carve-outs gut the plan. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, New York officials debated congestion pricing exemptions as the policy neared implementation. The discussion, covered by Streetsblog NYC, highlighted shifting positions. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once opposed to exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll said, "I think that there should be limited exemptions." State Senator Andrew Gounardes added, "Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible." Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine backed toll credits for tunnel users and taxi exemptions. Taxi and for-hire drivers lobbied for relief, citing existing surcharges. Advocacy groups warned against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide on further exemptions after federal review. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-08-26
Comrie Warns Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions Create Major Problems▸Council and state leaders spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want carve-outs. Others warn exemptions gut the plan. Vulnerable road users wait as drivers fight for special treatment. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, the council held a public debate on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, titled 'Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,' drew sharp lines. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once a hardliner against exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll backs limited carve-outs, saying, 'I think that there should be limited exemptions.' State Senator Andrew Gounardes stresses, 'Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible.' Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine pushes for toll credits and taxi exemptions. Advocacy groups warn against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide after federal review. The debate centers on who pays and who gets a pass, while the safety of people outside cars hangs in the balance.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2022-08-26
SUV Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist suffered facial bruises after a collision with a 2019 SUV on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV hit the bike’s center front while traveling west. Driver inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety gear.
According to the police report, a 27-year-old male bicyclist was injured when a 2019 Honda SUV struck him on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV was traveling west and impacted the bike’s center front end. The bicyclist, traveling north, suffered contusions and bruises to his face. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. It also notes some confusion or error on the part of the bicyclist but does not assign blame. The bicyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. The SUV sustained damage to its left rear quarter panel. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving in mixed traffic environments.
E-Scooter Rider Injured in Sedan Collision▸A 24-year-old male e-scooter rider was struck by a westbound sedan on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider suffered knee and lower leg injuries but remained conscious. Police cited driver distraction and rider confusion as contributing factors in the crash.
According to the police report, a 24-year-old male e-scooter driver was injured in a collision with a 2012 Nissan sedan traveling west on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider, wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his knee and lower leg but was conscious at the scene. The sedan struck the e-scooter with its right front bumper. Police identified driver inattention or distraction and pedestrian/bicyclist confusion as contributing factors. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The e-scooter rider was also moving straight ahead when the crash occurred. The report does not assign fault to the rider but highlights errors on both sides.
Two Sedans Collide on Olcott Street, Passenger Injured▸Two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The impact struck the left side doors of one vehicle. A 31-year-old female passenger suffered a back injury and shock. The crash involved failure to yield and driver distraction.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The point of impact was the left side doors of one vehicle and the center front end of the other. A 31-year-old female passenger in the right rear seat was injured, sustaining a back injury and shock. She was not ejected and was secured with a lap belt and harness. The report lists driver errors as failure to yield right-of-way and driver inattention or distraction. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash. The collision caused damage to the left side doors of one sedan and the front center of the other.
Comrie Supports Safety Boosting Penn Station Redevelopment Plan▸State authorities greenlit Governor Hochul’s Penn Station overhaul. The plan promises new towers, apartments, and a $7 billion station revamp. Senator Leroy Comrie backed the initial funding deal but demands federal support for future phases. Critics warn of secrecy and developer giveaways.
On July 27, 2022, the state’s Public Authorities Control Board approved Governor Kathy Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment plan. The project, described as a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity,' includes 18 million square feet of new office towers, 1,800 apartments, a $7 billion station upgrade, and promises of walkable streets and bike lanes. State Senator Leroy Comrie, representing District 14, voted for the initial PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement but pledged not to support future deals without federal funding and approvals. The plan faces criticism from watchdogs and officials like State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office, who called for a delay due to limited financial details. Reinvent Albany slammed the process for lacking transparency and questioned the reliance on developer tax breaks. The redevelopment’s impact on vulnerable road users remains unassessed.
-
State oversight body approves Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment,
amny.com,
Published 2022-07-27
Comrie Opposes Congestion Pricing Exemptions Safety Boosting▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie drew a hard line. No exemptions for Manhattan’s congestion tolls. He stood firm as others called for carve-outs. His stance means every car pays. No relief for drivers. The city’s most vulnerable stay in the crosshairs.
On June 29, 2022, State Senator Leroy Comrie made a public statement on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, covered by nypost.com, centers on calls from Mayor Eric Adams for more exemptions to the Manhattan congestion tolls. Adams argued, 'there should be a level of exemptions... so that we’re not overburdening New Yorkers.' But Comrie rejected this, stating, 'I don’t think there should be any exemptions, and I’m going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' The congestion pricing plan, passed in 2019, already exempts emergency vehicles, vehicles carrying disabled New Yorkers, and low-income residents inside the zone. Comrie’s stance keeps the system strict. No new carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board may still consider more, but Comrie’s position is clear: every driver pays the toll, no exceptions.
-
NYC Mayor Eric Adams calls for ‘exemptions’ to Manhattan congestion fees,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-06-29
Two sedans traveling north collided on Ingram Street. The right rear bumper of one struck the left front bumper of the other. A 30-year-old female front passenger suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Driver distraction caused the crash.
According to the police report, two sedans traveling north on Ingram Street collided. The impact occurred between the right rear bumper of one vehicle and the left front bumper of the other. A 30-year-old female front passenger was injured, suffering neck trauma and whiplash, and was not ejected from the vehicle. Both drivers were licensed men. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. The injured passenger was restrained with a lap belt and harness. No other contributing factors were noted.
Katz Supports Tougher Penalties Against Reckless Drivers▸Police arrested Ibrahim Chaaban in Bay Ridge after he did donuts on Shore Road. His car had racked up 12 school-zone speeding tickets since June. Council Member Brannan and DA Katz slammed weak penalties. Most reckless drivers still face little consequence. Streets remain dangerous.
On October 21, 2022, police in Bay Ridge arrested Ibrahim Chaaban for reckless driving after he performed donuts on Shore Road. The car had received at least 12 school-zone speeding tickets since June 21, but authorities failed to intervene until this incident. Council Member Justin Brannan reported the arrest, saying, "It seems the various systems currently in place to deter this type of behavior have failed here." Brannan and Queens DA Melinda Katz both criticized the current penalties, calling them too weak to deter dangerous drivers. Katz said, "There is a strong need for tougher penalties for those who choose to use our city streets as raceways." The article notes that only after 15 camera-issued speeding tickets in a year must drivers take a safety course, and few cars are seized under the Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program. Community complaints led to the arrest, but most reckless drivers still evade real consequences.
-
One Down, Thousands to Go: Cops Bust A Really Bad Driver For Doing Less-Dangerous Stupid Thing,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-10-21
3SUV Slams Into SUV on Expressway▸Rear SUV struck front SUV hard. Three inside front vehicle hurt with whiplash and body trauma. Police cite tailgating and distraction. All stayed conscious. All wore belts.
According to the police report, two SUVs collided on the Long Island Expressway when the rear vehicle hit the center back end of the front SUV. Three people in the front SUV, including the driver and two passengers, suffered whiplash and full-body injuries. All were conscious and wore lap belts and harnesses. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors for the rear driver's actions. No driver errors were noted for the front vehicle's driver or passengers. No one was ejected.
SUV Strikes Pedestrian Crossing With Signal▸A 41-year-old woman was hit by an SUV making a left turn on Metropolitan Avenue in Queens. She was crossing with the signal when the vehicle failed to yield. The impact caused head injuries and fractures. The driver’s error was clear.
According to the police report, a 41-year-old female pedestrian was injured at the intersection of Metropolitan Avenue and 71 Avenue in Queens. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal when a 2018 Honda SUV, driven by a licensed male driver from South Carolina, made a left turn and struck her with the center front end of the vehicle. The pedestrian suffered head injuries and fractures, leaving her semiconscious at the scene. The report lists the driver’s failure to yield right-of-way as the contributing factor. There is no mention of any contributing factors related to the pedestrian. The crash caused significant vehicle damage to the front center of the SUV.
Distracted Sedan Driver Strikes Cyclist in Queens▸A sedan hit a 52-year-old woman on a bike along Greenway South. She suffered broken bones and dislocations in her leg and foot. Police cite driver distraction. The cyclist stayed conscious. Metal met flesh. The street stayed silent.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Greenway South struck a 52-year-old female bicyclist riding southwest. The cyclist suffered fractures and dislocations to her knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. The sedan's right front quarter panel hit the bike's left front bumper. The bicyclist was conscious and not ejected. No other contributing factors or safety equipment details were noted. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash.
SUV Driver Injured in Yellowstone Boulevard Crash▸A 41-year-old male driver suffered chest injuries in a crash on Yellowstone Boulevard. The SUV struck an object with its left front bumper. The driver was incoherent but not ejected. Police cited driver inattention and improper lane usage as causes.
According to the police report, a 41-year-old male driver in a 2008 Nissan SUV traveling north on Yellowstone Boulevard was injured when his vehicle impacted an object with the left front bumper. The driver sustained chest injuries and was incoherent at the scene but remained inside the vehicle, secured by a lap belt. The report lists driver inattention and improper passing or lane usage as contributing factors. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved. The crash highlights the dangers of distracted driving and improper lane maneuvers in this area.
Unlicensed Driver Backs Into Sedan in Queens▸A sedan backing unsafely struck another sedan traveling south on Burns Street in Queens. The driver of the struck vehicle suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The backing driver was unlicensed. Both vehicles sustained damage to their right sides.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling south on Burns Street was hit on its right front bumper by another sedan backing east. The backing driver was unlicensed and caused the collision by backing unsafely. The driver of the struck vehicle, a 31-year-old man wearing a lap belt and harness, suffered neck injuries and complained of whiplash. The collision damaged the right front bumper of the struck vehicle and the right rear quarter panel of the backing vehicle. The report lists the contributing factor as "Backing Unsafely" and notes the backing driver was unlicensed. No other factors or victim errors were cited.
Sedan Rear-Ends Pickup Truck on Expressway▸A sedan slammed into the back of a pickup truck on the Long Island Expressway. The front passenger in the sedan, a 73-year-old man, suffered a back injury and shock. The crash was caused by following too closely.
According to the police report, a 2022 sedan traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a 2022 pickup truck going in the same direction. The front passenger in the sedan, a 73-year-old man, was injured with back trauma and experienced shock. The report lists "Following Too Closely" as the contributing factor to the collision. Both vehicles were moving straight ahead at the time of impact. The injured passenger was restrained by a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. The driver of the sedan was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
2SUVs Rear-End Crash on Long Island Expressway▸Two SUVs collided on the Long Island Expressway. Both drivers were traveling east. The impact caused neck injuries and whiplash to a driver and passenger. Police cited driver inattention and following too closely as causes.
According to the police report, two sport utility vehicles collided on the Long Island Expressway while traveling east. The crash involved rear-end impacts, with one SUV striking the center back end of another. Two occupants were injured: a 37-year-old male driver and a 36-year-old female passenger. Both suffered neck injuries and whiplash but were conscious and not ejected. The report lists multiple contributing factors, including 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' These driver errors led directly to the collision. Both occupants were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. No other factors or victim actions were noted in the report.
Pedestrian Hit Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 28-year-old woman was struck by a sedan making a right turn on Queens Boulevard. She was crossing with the signal when the driver failed to yield and was distracted. The pedestrian suffered abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis.
According to the police report, a 28-year-old female pedestrian was injured while crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection in Queens. The sedan, traveling east and making a right turn, struck her with its right front bumper. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal and was not ejected but sustained abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis. The report lists driver errors as Failure to Yield Right-of-Way and Driver Inattention/Distraction. No other contributing factors such as helmet use or signaling were noted. The driver’s failure to yield and distraction caused the collision, resulting in moderate injury to the pedestrian.
SUV Rear-Ends Sedan on Long Island Expressway▸A 59-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on the Long Island Expressway. The SUV struck the sedan from behind. The driver was conscious and restrained. The collision caused whiplash and front-end damage to the SUV.
According to the police report, a station wagon/SUV traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a sedan going in the same direction. The 59-year-old male driver of the SUV was injured, sustaining neck trauma and whiplash. The report lists driver inattention/distraction and following too closely as contributing factors. The driver was wearing a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. Both vehicles sustained center-end damage, with the SUV impacting the sedan's rear. No other injuries or pedestrians were involved.
Comrie Warns Against Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions▸Lawmakers spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want tight limits. Others push for taxi exemptions and tunnel credits. Advocates warn: too many carve-outs gut the plan. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, New York officials debated congestion pricing exemptions as the policy neared implementation. The discussion, covered by Streetsblog NYC, highlighted shifting positions. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once opposed to exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll said, "I think that there should be limited exemptions." State Senator Andrew Gounardes added, "Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible." Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine backed toll credits for tunnel users and taxi exemptions. Taxi and for-hire drivers lobbied for relief, citing existing surcharges. Advocacy groups warned against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide on further exemptions after federal review. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-08-26
Comrie Warns Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions Create Major Problems▸Council and state leaders spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want carve-outs. Others warn exemptions gut the plan. Vulnerable road users wait as drivers fight for special treatment. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, the council held a public debate on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, titled 'Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,' drew sharp lines. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once a hardliner against exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll backs limited carve-outs, saying, 'I think that there should be limited exemptions.' State Senator Andrew Gounardes stresses, 'Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible.' Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine pushes for toll credits and taxi exemptions. Advocacy groups warn against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide after federal review. The debate centers on who pays and who gets a pass, while the safety of people outside cars hangs in the balance.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2022-08-26
SUV Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist suffered facial bruises after a collision with a 2019 SUV on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV hit the bike’s center front while traveling west. Driver inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety gear.
According to the police report, a 27-year-old male bicyclist was injured when a 2019 Honda SUV struck him on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV was traveling west and impacted the bike’s center front end. The bicyclist, traveling north, suffered contusions and bruises to his face. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. It also notes some confusion or error on the part of the bicyclist but does not assign blame. The bicyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. The SUV sustained damage to its left rear quarter panel. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving in mixed traffic environments.
E-Scooter Rider Injured in Sedan Collision▸A 24-year-old male e-scooter rider was struck by a westbound sedan on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider suffered knee and lower leg injuries but remained conscious. Police cited driver distraction and rider confusion as contributing factors in the crash.
According to the police report, a 24-year-old male e-scooter driver was injured in a collision with a 2012 Nissan sedan traveling west on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider, wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his knee and lower leg but was conscious at the scene. The sedan struck the e-scooter with its right front bumper. Police identified driver inattention or distraction and pedestrian/bicyclist confusion as contributing factors. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The e-scooter rider was also moving straight ahead when the crash occurred. The report does not assign fault to the rider but highlights errors on both sides.
Two Sedans Collide on Olcott Street, Passenger Injured▸Two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The impact struck the left side doors of one vehicle. A 31-year-old female passenger suffered a back injury and shock. The crash involved failure to yield and driver distraction.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The point of impact was the left side doors of one vehicle and the center front end of the other. A 31-year-old female passenger in the right rear seat was injured, sustaining a back injury and shock. She was not ejected and was secured with a lap belt and harness. The report lists driver errors as failure to yield right-of-way and driver inattention or distraction. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash. The collision caused damage to the left side doors of one sedan and the front center of the other.
Comrie Supports Safety Boosting Penn Station Redevelopment Plan▸State authorities greenlit Governor Hochul’s Penn Station overhaul. The plan promises new towers, apartments, and a $7 billion station revamp. Senator Leroy Comrie backed the initial funding deal but demands federal support for future phases. Critics warn of secrecy and developer giveaways.
On July 27, 2022, the state’s Public Authorities Control Board approved Governor Kathy Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment plan. The project, described as a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity,' includes 18 million square feet of new office towers, 1,800 apartments, a $7 billion station upgrade, and promises of walkable streets and bike lanes. State Senator Leroy Comrie, representing District 14, voted for the initial PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement but pledged not to support future deals without federal funding and approvals. The plan faces criticism from watchdogs and officials like State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office, who called for a delay due to limited financial details. Reinvent Albany slammed the process for lacking transparency and questioned the reliance on developer tax breaks. The redevelopment’s impact on vulnerable road users remains unassessed.
-
State oversight body approves Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment,
amny.com,
Published 2022-07-27
Comrie Opposes Congestion Pricing Exemptions Safety Boosting▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie drew a hard line. No exemptions for Manhattan’s congestion tolls. He stood firm as others called for carve-outs. His stance means every car pays. No relief for drivers. The city’s most vulnerable stay in the crosshairs.
On June 29, 2022, State Senator Leroy Comrie made a public statement on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, covered by nypost.com, centers on calls from Mayor Eric Adams for more exemptions to the Manhattan congestion tolls. Adams argued, 'there should be a level of exemptions... so that we’re not overburdening New Yorkers.' But Comrie rejected this, stating, 'I don’t think there should be any exemptions, and I’m going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' The congestion pricing plan, passed in 2019, already exempts emergency vehicles, vehicles carrying disabled New Yorkers, and low-income residents inside the zone. Comrie’s stance keeps the system strict. No new carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board may still consider more, but Comrie’s position is clear: every driver pays the toll, no exceptions.
-
NYC Mayor Eric Adams calls for ‘exemptions’ to Manhattan congestion fees,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-06-29
Police arrested Ibrahim Chaaban in Bay Ridge after he did donuts on Shore Road. His car had racked up 12 school-zone speeding tickets since June. Council Member Brannan and DA Katz slammed weak penalties. Most reckless drivers still face little consequence. Streets remain dangerous.
On October 21, 2022, police in Bay Ridge arrested Ibrahim Chaaban for reckless driving after he performed donuts on Shore Road. The car had received at least 12 school-zone speeding tickets since June 21, but authorities failed to intervene until this incident. Council Member Justin Brannan reported the arrest, saying, "It seems the various systems currently in place to deter this type of behavior have failed here." Brannan and Queens DA Melinda Katz both criticized the current penalties, calling them too weak to deter dangerous drivers. Katz said, "There is a strong need for tougher penalties for those who choose to use our city streets as raceways." The article notes that only after 15 camera-issued speeding tickets in a year must drivers take a safety course, and few cars are seized under the Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program. Community complaints led to the arrest, but most reckless drivers still evade real consequences.
- One Down, Thousands to Go: Cops Bust A Really Bad Driver For Doing Less-Dangerous Stupid Thing, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-10-21
3SUV Slams Into SUV on Expressway▸Rear SUV struck front SUV hard. Three inside front vehicle hurt with whiplash and body trauma. Police cite tailgating and distraction. All stayed conscious. All wore belts.
According to the police report, two SUVs collided on the Long Island Expressway when the rear vehicle hit the center back end of the front SUV. Three people in the front SUV, including the driver and two passengers, suffered whiplash and full-body injuries. All were conscious and wore lap belts and harnesses. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors for the rear driver's actions. No driver errors were noted for the front vehicle's driver or passengers. No one was ejected.
SUV Strikes Pedestrian Crossing With Signal▸A 41-year-old woman was hit by an SUV making a left turn on Metropolitan Avenue in Queens. She was crossing with the signal when the vehicle failed to yield. The impact caused head injuries and fractures. The driver’s error was clear.
According to the police report, a 41-year-old female pedestrian was injured at the intersection of Metropolitan Avenue and 71 Avenue in Queens. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal when a 2018 Honda SUV, driven by a licensed male driver from South Carolina, made a left turn and struck her with the center front end of the vehicle. The pedestrian suffered head injuries and fractures, leaving her semiconscious at the scene. The report lists the driver’s failure to yield right-of-way as the contributing factor. There is no mention of any contributing factors related to the pedestrian. The crash caused significant vehicle damage to the front center of the SUV.
Distracted Sedan Driver Strikes Cyclist in Queens▸A sedan hit a 52-year-old woman on a bike along Greenway South. She suffered broken bones and dislocations in her leg and foot. Police cite driver distraction. The cyclist stayed conscious. Metal met flesh. The street stayed silent.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Greenway South struck a 52-year-old female bicyclist riding southwest. The cyclist suffered fractures and dislocations to her knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. The sedan's right front quarter panel hit the bike's left front bumper. The bicyclist was conscious and not ejected. No other contributing factors or safety equipment details were noted. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash.
SUV Driver Injured in Yellowstone Boulevard Crash▸A 41-year-old male driver suffered chest injuries in a crash on Yellowstone Boulevard. The SUV struck an object with its left front bumper. The driver was incoherent but not ejected. Police cited driver inattention and improper lane usage as causes.
According to the police report, a 41-year-old male driver in a 2008 Nissan SUV traveling north on Yellowstone Boulevard was injured when his vehicle impacted an object with the left front bumper. The driver sustained chest injuries and was incoherent at the scene but remained inside the vehicle, secured by a lap belt. The report lists driver inattention and improper passing or lane usage as contributing factors. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved. The crash highlights the dangers of distracted driving and improper lane maneuvers in this area.
Unlicensed Driver Backs Into Sedan in Queens▸A sedan backing unsafely struck another sedan traveling south on Burns Street in Queens. The driver of the struck vehicle suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The backing driver was unlicensed. Both vehicles sustained damage to their right sides.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling south on Burns Street was hit on its right front bumper by another sedan backing east. The backing driver was unlicensed and caused the collision by backing unsafely. The driver of the struck vehicle, a 31-year-old man wearing a lap belt and harness, suffered neck injuries and complained of whiplash. The collision damaged the right front bumper of the struck vehicle and the right rear quarter panel of the backing vehicle. The report lists the contributing factor as "Backing Unsafely" and notes the backing driver was unlicensed. No other factors or victim errors were cited.
Sedan Rear-Ends Pickup Truck on Expressway▸A sedan slammed into the back of a pickup truck on the Long Island Expressway. The front passenger in the sedan, a 73-year-old man, suffered a back injury and shock. The crash was caused by following too closely.
According to the police report, a 2022 sedan traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a 2022 pickup truck going in the same direction. The front passenger in the sedan, a 73-year-old man, was injured with back trauma and experienced shock. The report lists "Following Too Closely" as the contributing factor to the collision. Both vehicles were moving straight ahead at the time of impact. The injured passenger was restrained by a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. The driver of the sedan was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
2SUVs Rear-End Crash on Long Island Expressway▸Two SUVs collided on the Long Island Expressway. Both drivers were traveling east. The impact caused neck injuries and whiplash to a driver and passenger. Police cited driver inattention and following too closely as causes.
According to the police report, two sport utility vehicles collided on the Long Island Expressway while traveling east. The crash involved rear-end impacts, with one SUV striking the center back end of another. Two occupants were injured: a 37-year-old male driver and a 36-year-old female passenger. Both suffered neck injuries and whiplash but were conscious and not ejected. The report lists multiple contributing factors, including 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' These driver errors led directly to the collision. Both occupants were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. No other factors or victim actions were noted in the report.
Pedestrian Hit Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 28-year-old woman was struck by a sedan making a right turn on Queens Boulevard. She was crossing with the signal when the driver failed to yield and was distracted. The pedestrian suffered abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis.
According to the police report, a 28-year-old female pedestrian was injured while crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection in Queens. The sedan, traveling east and making a right turn, struck her with its right front bumper. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal and was not ejected but sustained abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis. The report lists driver errors as Failure to Yield Right-of-Way and Driver Inattention/Distraction. No other contributing factors such as helmet use or signaling were noted. The driver’s failure to yield and distraction caused the collision, resulting in moderate injury to the pedestrian.
SUV Rear-Ends Sedan on Long Island Expressway▸A 59-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on the Long Island Expressway. The SUV struck the sedan from behind. The driver was conscious and restrained. The collision caused whiplash and front-end damage to the SUV.
According to the police report, a station wagon/SUV traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a sedan going in the same direction. The 59-year-old male driver of the SUV was injured, sustaining neck trauma and whiplash. The report lists driver inattention/distraction and following too closely as contributing factors. The driver was wearing a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. Both vehicles sustained center-end damage, with the SUV impacting the sedan's rear. No other injuries or pedestrians were involved.
Comrie Warns Against Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions▸Lawmakers spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want tight limits. Others push for taxi exemptions and tunnel credits. Advocates warn: too many carve-outs gut the plan. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, New York officials debated congestion pricing exemptions as the policy neared implementation. The discussion, covered by Streetsblog NYC, highlighted shifting positions. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once opposed to exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll said, "I think that there should be limited exemptions." State Senator Andrew Gounardes added, "Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible." Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine backed toll credits for tunnel users and taxi exemptions. Taxi and for-hire drivers lobbied for relief, citing existing surcharges. Advocacy groups warned against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide on further exemptions after federal review. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-08-26
Comrie Warns Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions Create Major Problems▸Council and state leaders spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want carve-outs. Others warn exemptions gut the plan. Vulnerable road users wait as drivers fight for special treatment. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, the council held a public debate on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, titled 'Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,' drew sharp lines. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once a hardliner against exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll backs limited carve-outs, saying, 'I think that there should be limited exemptions.' State Senator Andrew Gounardes stresses, 'Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible.' Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine pushes for toll credits and taxi exemptions. Advocacy groups warn against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide after federal review. The debate centers on who pays and who gets a pass, while the safety of people outside cars hangs in the balance.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2022-08-26
SUV Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist suffered facial bruises after a collision with a 2019 SUV on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV hit the bike’s center front while traveling west. Driver inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety gear.
According to the police report, a 27-year-old male bicyclist was injured when a 2019 Honda SUV struck him on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV was traveling west and impacted the bike’s center front end. The bicyclist, traveling north, suffered contusions and bruises to his face. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. It also notes some confusion or error on the part of the bicyclist but does not assign blame. The bicyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. The SUV sustained damage to its left rear quarter panel. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving in mixed traffic environments.
E-Scooter Rider Injured in Sedan Collision▸A 24-year-old male e-scooter rider was struck by a westbound sedan on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider suffered knee and lower leg injuries but remained conscious. Police cited driver distraction and rider confusion as contributing factors in the crash.
According to the police report, a 24-year-old male e-scooter driver was injured in a collision with a 2012 Nissan sedan traveling west on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider, wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his knee and lower leg but was conscious at the scene. The sedan struck the e-scooter with its right front bumper. Police identified driver inattention or distraction and pedestrian/bicyclist confusion as contributing factors. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The e-scooter rider was also moving straight ahead when the crash occurred. The report does not assign fault to the rider but highlights errors on both sides.
Two Sedans Collide on Olcott Street, Passenger Injured▸Two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The impact struck the left side doors of one vehicle. A 31-year-old female passenger suffered a back injury and shock. The crash involved failure to yield and driver distraction.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The point of impact was the left side doors of one vehicle and the center front end of the other. A 31-year-old female passenger in the right rear seat was injured, sustaining a back injury and shock. She was not ejected and was secured with a lap belt and harness. The report lists driver errors as failure to yield right-of-way and driver inattention or distraction. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash. The collision caused damage to the left side doors of one sedan and the front center of the other.
Comrie Supports Safety Boosting Penn Station Redevelopment Plan▸State authorities greenlit Governor Hochul’s Penn Station overhaul. The plan promises new towers, apartments, and a $7 billion station revamp. Senator Leroy Comrie backed the initial funding deal but demands federal support for future phases. Critics warn of secrecy and developer giveaways.
On July 27, 2022, the state’s Public Authorities Control Board approved Governor Kathy Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment plan. The project, described as a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity,' includes 18 million square feet of new office towers, 1,800 apartments, a $7 billion station upgrade, and promises of walkable streets and bike lanes. State Senator Leroy Comrie, representing District 14, voted for the initial PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement but pledged not to support future deals without federal funding and approvals. The plan faces criticism from watchdogs and officials like State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office, who called for a delay due to limited financial details. Reinvent Albany slammed the process for lacking transparency and questioned the reliance on developer tax breaks. The redevelopment’s impact on vulnerable road users remains unassessed.
-
State oversight body approves Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment,
amny.com,
Published 2022-07-27
Comrie Opposes Congestion Pricing Exemptions Safety Boosting▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie drew a hard line. No exemptions for Manhattan’s congestion tolls. He stood firm as others called for carve-outs. His stance means every car pays. No relief for drivers. The city’s most vulnerable stay in the crosshairs.
On June 29, 2022, State Senator Leroy Comrie made a public statement on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, covered by nypost.com, centers on calls from Mayor Eric Adams for more exemptions to the Manhattan congestion tolls. Adams argued, 'there should be a level of exemptions... so that we’re not overburdening New Yorkers.' But Comrie rejected this, stating, 'I don’t think there should be any exemptions, and I’m going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' The congestion pricing plan, passed in 2019, already exempts emergency vehicles, vehicles carrying disabled New Yorkers, and low-income residents inside the zone. Comrie’s stance keeps the system strict. No new carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board may still consider more, but Comrie’s position is clear: every driver pays the toll, no exceptions.
-
NYC Mayor Eric Adams calls for ‘exemptions’ to Manhattan congestion fees,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-06-29
Rear SUV struck front SUV hard. Three inside front vehicle hurt with whiplash and body trauma. Police cite tailgating and distraction. All stayed conscious. All wore belts.
According to the police report, two SUVs collided on the Long Island Expressway when the rear vehicle hit the center back end of the front SUV. Three people in the front SUV, including the driver and two passengers, suffered whiplash and full-body injuries. All were conscious and wore lap belts and harnesses. The report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors for the rear driver's actions. No driver errors were noted for the front vehicle's driver or passengers. No one was ejected.
SUV Strikes Pedestrian Crossing With Signal▸A 41-year-old woman was hit by an SUV making a left turn on Metropolitan Avenue in Queens. She was crossing with the signal when the vehicle failed to yield. The impact caused head injuries and fractures. The driver’s error was clear.
According to the police report, a 41-year-old female pedestrian was injured at the intersection of Metropolitan Avenue and 71 Avenue in Queens. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal when a 2018 Honda SUV, driven by a licensed male driver from South Carolina, made a left turn and struck her with the center front end of the vehicle. The pedestrian suffered head injuries and fractures, leaving her semiconscious at the scene. The report lists the driver’s failure to yield right-of-way as the contributing factor. There is no mention of any contributing factors related to the pedestrian. The crash caused significant vehicle damage to the front center of the SUV.
Distracted Sedan Driver Strikes Cyclist in Queens▸A sedan hit a 52-year-old woman on a bike along Greenway South. She suffered broken bones and dislocations in her leg and foot. Police cite driver distraction. The cyclist stayed conscious. Metal met flesh. The street stayed silent.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Greenway South struck a 52-year-old female bicyclist riding southwest. The cyclist suffered fractures and dislocations to her knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. The sedan's right front quarter panel hit the bike's left front bumper. The bicyclist was conscious and not ejected. No other contributing factors or safety equipment details were noted. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash.
SUV Driver Injured in Yellowstone Boulevard Crash▸A 41-year-old male driver suffered chest injuries in a crash on Yellowstone Boulevard. The SUV struck an object with its left front bumper. The driver was incoherent but not ejected. Police cited driver inattention and improper lane usage as causes.
According to the police report, a 41-year-old male driver in a 2008 Nissan SUV traveling north on Yellowstone Boulevard was injured when his vehicle impacted an object with the left front bumper. The driver sustained chest injuries and was incoherent at the scene but remained inside the vehicle, secured by a lap belt. The report lists driver inattention and improper passing or lane usage as contributing factors. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved. The crash highlights the dangers of distracted driving and improper lane maneuvers in this area.
Unlicensed Driver Backs Into Sedan in Queens▸A sedan backing unsafely struck another sedan traveling south on Burns Street in Queens. The driver of the struck vehicle suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The backing driver was unlicensed. Both vehicles sustained damage to their right sides.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling south on Burns Street was hit on its right front bumper by another sedan backing east. The backing driver was unlicensed and caused the collision by backing unsafely. The driver of the struck vehicle, a 31-year-old man wearing a lap belt and harness, suffered neck injuries and complained of whiplash. The collision damaged the right front bumper of the struck vehicle and the right rear quarter panel of the backing vehicle. The report lists the contributing factor as "Backing Unsafely" and notes the backing driver was unlicensed. No other factors or victim errors were cited.
Sedan Rear-Ends Pickup Truck on Expressway▸A sedan slammed into the back of a pickup truck on the Long Island Expressway. The front passenger in the sedan, a 73-year-old man, suffered a back injury and shock. The crash was caused by following too closely.
According to the police report, a 2022 sedan traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a 2022 pickup truck going in the same direction. The front passenger in the sedan, a 73-year-old man, was injured with back trauma and experienced shock. The report lists "Following Too Closely" as the contributing factor to the collision. Both vehicles were moving straight ahead at the time of impact. The injured passenger was restrained by a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. The driver of the sedan was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
2SUVs Rear-End Crash on Long Island Expressway▸Two SUVs collided on the Long Island Expressway. Both drivers were traveling east. The impact caused neck injuries and whiplash to a driver and passenger. Police cited driver inattention and following too closely as causes.
According to the police report, two sport utility vehicles collided on the Long Island Expressway while traveling east. The crash involved rear-end impacts, with one SUV striking the center back end of another. Two occupants were injured: a 37-year-old male driver and a 36-year-old female passenger. Both suffered neck injuries and whiplash but were conscious and not ejected. The report lists multiple contributing factors, including 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' These driver errors led directly to the collision. Both occupants were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. No other factors or victim actions were noted in the report.
Pedestrian Hit Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 28-year-old woman was struck by a sedan making a right turn on Queens Boulevard. She was crossing with the signal when the driver failed to yield and was distracted. The pedestrian suffered abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis.
According to the police report, a 28-year-old female pedestrian was injured while crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection in Queens. The sedan, traveling east and making a right turn, struck her with its right front bumper. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal and was not ejected but sustained abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis. The report lists driver errors as Failure to Yield Right-of-Way and Driver Inattention/Distraction. No other contributing factors such as helmet use or signaling were noted. The driver’s failure to yield and distraction caused the collision, resulting in moderate injury to the pedestrian.
SUV Rear-Ends Sedan on Long Island Expressway▸A 59-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on the Long Island Expressway. The SUV struck the sedan from behind. The driver was conscious and restrained. The collision caused whiplash and front-end damage to the SUV.
According to the police report, a station wagon/SUV traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a sedan going in the same direction. The 59-year-old male driver of the SUV was injured, sustaining neck trauma and whiplash. The report lists driver inattention/distraction and following too closely as contributing factors. The driver was wearing a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. Both vehicles sustained center-end damage, with the SUV impacting the sedan's rear. No other injuries or pedestrians were involved.
Comrie Warns Against Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions▸Lawmakers spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want tight limits. Others push for taxi exemptions and tunnel credits. Advocates warn: too many carve-outs gut the plan. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, New York officials debated congestion pricing exemptions as the policy neared implementation. The discussion, covered by Streetsblog NYC, highlighted shifting positions. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once opposed to exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll said, "I think that there should be limited exemptions." State Senator Andrew Gounardes added, "Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible." Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine backed toll credits for tunnel users and taxi exemptions. Taxi and for-hire drivers lobbied for relief, citing existing surcharges. Advocacy groups warned against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide on further exemptions after federal review. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-08-26
Comrie Warns Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions Create Major Problems▸Council and state leaders spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want carve-outs. Others warn exemptions gut the plan. Vulnerable road users wait as drivers fight for special treatment. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, the council held a public debate on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, titled 'Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,' drew sharp lines. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once a hardliner against exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll backs limited carve-outs, saying, 'I think that there should be limited exemptions.' State Senator Andrew Gounardes stresses, 'Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible.' Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine pushes for toll credits and taxi exemptions. Advocacy groups warn against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide after federal review. The debate centers on who pays and who gets a pass, while the safety of people outside cars hangs in the balance.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2022-08-26
SUV Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist suffered facial bruises after a collision with a 2019 SUV on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV hit the bike’s center front while traveling west. Driver inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety gear.
According to the police report, a 27-year-old male bicyclist was injured when a 2019 Honda SUV struck him on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV was traveling west and impacted the bike’s center front end. The bicyclist, traveling north, suffered contusions and bruises to his face. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. It also notes some confusion or error on the part of the bicyclist but does not assign blame. The bicyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. The SUV sustained damage to its left rear quarter panel. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving in mixed traffic environments.
E-Scooter Rider Injured in Sedan Collision▸A 24-year-old male e-scooter rider was struck by a westbound sedan on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider suffered knee and lower leg injuries but remained conscious. Police cited driver distraction and rider confusion as contributing factors in the crash.
According to the police report, a 24-year-old male e-scooter driver was injured in a collision with a 2012 Nissan sedan traveling west on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider, wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his knee and lower leg but was conscious at the scene. The sedan struck the e-scooter with its right front bumper. Police identified driver inattention or distraction and pedestrian/bicyclist confusion as contributing factors. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The e-scooter rider was also moving straight ahead when the crash occurred. The report does not assign fault to the rider but highlights errors on both sides.
Two Sedans Collide on Olcott Street, Passenger Injured▸Two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The impact struck the left side doors of one vehicle. A 31-year-old female passenger suffered a back injury and shock. The crash involved failure to yield and driver distraction.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The point of impact was the left side doors of one vehicle and the center front end of the other. A 31-year-old female passenger in the right rear seat was injured, sustaining a back injury and shock. She was not ejected and was secured with a lap belt and harness. The report lists driver errors as failure to yield right-of-way and driver inattention or distraction. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash. The collision caused damage to the left side doors of one sedan and the front center of the other.
Comrie Supports Safety Boosting Penn Station Redevelopment Plan▸State authorities greenlit Governor Hochul’s Penn Station overhaul. The plan promises new towers, apartments, and a $7 billion station revamp. Senator Leroy Comrie backed the initial funding deal but demands federal support for future phases. Critics warn of secrecy and developer giveaways.
On July 27, 2022, the state’s Public Authorities Control Board approved Governor Kathy Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment plan. The project, described as a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity,' includes 18 million square feet of new office towers, 1,800 apartments, a $7 billion station upgrade, and promises of walkable streets and bike lanes. State Senator Leroy Comrie, representing District 14, voted for the initial PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement but pledged not to support future deals without federal funding and approvals. The plan faces criticism from watchdogs and officials like State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office, who called for a delay due to limited financial details. Reinvent Albany slammed the process for lacking transparency and questioned the reliance on developer tax breaks. The redevelopment’s impact on vulnerable road users remains unassessed.
-
State oversight body approves Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment,
amny.com,
Published 2022-07-27
Comrie Opposes Congestion Pricing Exemptions Safety Boosting▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie drew a hard line. No exemptions for Manhattan’s congestion tolls. He stood firm as others called for carve-outs. His stance means every car pays. No relief for drivers. The city’s most vulnerable stay in the crosshairs.
On June 29, 2022, State Senator Leroy Comrie made a public statement on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, covered by nypost.com, centers on calls from Mayor Eric Adams for more exemptions to the Manhattan congestion tolls. Adams argued, 'there should be a level of exemptions... so that we’re not overburdening New Yorkers.' But Comrie rejected this, stating, 'I don’t think there should be any exemptions, and I’m going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' The congestion pricing plan, passed in 2019, already exempts emergency vehicles, vehicles carrying disabled New Yorkers, and low-income residents inside the zone. Comrie’s stance keeps the system strict. No new carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board may still consider more, but Comrie’s position is clear: every driver pays the toll, no exceptions.
-
NYC Mayor Eric Adams calls for ‘exemptions’ to Manhattan congestion fees,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-06-29
A 41-year-old woman was hit by an SUV making a left turn on Metropolitan Avenue in Queens. She was crossing with the signal when the vehicle failed to yield. The impact caused head injuries and fractures. The driver’s error was clear.
According to the police report, a 41-year-old female pedestrian was injured at the intersection of Metropolitan Avenue and 71 Avenue in Queens. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal when a 2018 Honda SUV, driven by a licensed male driver from South Carolina, made a left turn and struck her with the center front end of the vehicle. The pedestrian suffered head injuries and fractures, leaving her semiconscious at the scene. The report lists the driver’s failure to yield right-of-way as the contributing factor. There is no mention of any contributing factors related to the pedestrian. The crash caused significant vehicle damage to the front center of the SUV.
Distracted Sedan Driver Strikes Cyclist in Queens▸A sedan hit a 52-year-old woman on a bike along Greenway South. She suffered broken bones and dislocations in her leg and foot. Police cite driver distraction. The cyclist stayed conscious. Metal met flesh. The street stayed silent.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Greenway South struck a 52-year-old female bicyclist riding southwest. The cyclist suffered fractures and dislocations to her knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. The sedan's right front quarter panel hit the bike's left front bumper. The bicyclist was conscious and not ejected. No other contributing factors or safety equipment details were noted. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash.
SUV Driver Injured in Yellowstone Boulevard Crash▸A 41-year-old male driver suffered chest injuries in a crash on Yellowstone Boulevard. The SUV struck an object with its left front bumper. The driver was incoherent but not ejected. Police cited driver inattention and improper lane usage as causes.
According to the police report, a 41-year-old male driver in a 2008 Nissan SUV traveling north on Yellowstone Boulevard was injured when his vehicle impacted an object with the left front bumper. The driver sustained chest injuries and was incoherent at the scene but remained inside the vehicle, secured by a lap belt. The report lists driver inattention and improper passing or lane usage as contributing factors. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved. The crash highlights the dangers of distracted driving and improper lane maneuvers in this area.
Unlicensed Driver Backs Into Sedan in Queens▸A sedan backing unsafely struck another sedan traveling south on Burns Street in Queens. The driver of the struck vehicle suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The backing driver was unlicensed. Both vehicles sustained damage to their right sides.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling south on Burns Street was hit on its right front bumper by another sedan backing east. The backing driver was unlicensed and caused the collision by backing unsafely. The driver of the struck vehicle, a 31-year-old man wearing a lap belt and harness, suffered neck injuries and complained of whiplash. The collision damaged the right front bumper of the struck vehicle and the right rear quarter panel of the backing vehicle. The report lists the contributing factor as "Backing Unsafely" and notes the backing driver was unlicensed. No other factors or victim errors were cited.
Sedan Rear-Ends Pickup Truck on Expressway▸A sedan slammed into the back of a pickup truck on the Long Island Expressway. The front passenger in the sedan, a 73-year-old man, suffered a back injury and shock. The crash was caused by following too closely.
According to the police report, a 2022 sedan traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a 2022 pickup truck going in the same direction. The front passenger in the sedan, a 73-year-old man, was injured with back trauma and experienced shock. The report lists "Following Too Closely" as the contributing factor to the collision. Both vehicles were moving straight ahead at the time of impact. The injured passenger was restrained by a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. The driver of the sedan was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
2SUVs Rear-End Crash on Long Island Expressway▸Two SUVs collided on the Long Island Expressway. Both drivers were traveling east. The impact caused neck injuries and whiplash to a driver and passenger. Police cited driver inattention and following too closely as causes.
According to the police report, two sport utility vehicles collided on the Long Island Expressway while traveling east. The crash involved rear-end impacts, with one SUV striking the center back end of another. Two occupants were injured: a 37-year-old male driver and a 36-year-old female passenger. Both suffered neck injuries and whiplash but were conscious and not ejected. The report lists multiple contributing factors, including 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' These driver errors led directly to the collision. Both occupants were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. No other factors or victim actions were noted in the report.
Pedestrian Hit Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 28-year-old woman was struck by a sedan making a right turn on Queens Boulevard. She was crossing with the signal when the driver failed to yield and was distracted. The pedestrian suffered abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis.
According to the police report, a 28-year-old female pedestrian was injured while crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection in Queens. The sedan, traveling east and making a right turn, struck her with its right front bumper. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal and was not ejected but sustained abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis. The report lists driver errors as Failure to Yield Right-of-Way and Driver Inattention/Distraction. No other contributing factors such as helmet use or signaling were noted. The driver’s failure to yield and distraction caused the collision, resulting in moderate injury to the pedestrian.
SUV Rear-Ends Sedan on Long Island Expressway▸A 59-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on the Long Island Expressway. The SUV struck the sedan from behind. The driver was conscious and restrained. The collision caused whiplash and front-end damage to the SUV.
According to the police report, a station wagon/SUV traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a sedan going in the same direction. The 59-year-old male driver of the SUV was injured, sustaining neck trauma and whiplash. The report lists driver inattention/distraction and following too closely as contributing factors. The driver was wearing a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. Both vehicles sustained center-end damage, with the SUV impacting the sedan's rear. No other injuries or pedestrians were involved.
Comrie Warns Against Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions▸Lawmakers spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want tight limits. Others push for taxi exemptions and tunnel credits. Advocates warn: too many carve-outs gut the plan. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, New York officials debated congestion pricing exemptions as the policy neared implementation. The discussion, covered by Streetsblog NYC, highlighted shifting positions. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once opposed to exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll said, "I think that there should be limited exemptions." State Senator Andrew Gounardes added, "Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible." Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine backed toll credits for tunnel users and taxi exemptions. Taxi and for-hire drivers lobbied for relief, citing existing surcharges. Advocacy groups warned against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide on further exemptions after federal review. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-08-26
Comrie Warns Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions Create Major Problems▸Council and state leaders spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want carve-outs. Others warn exemptions gut the plan. Vulnerable road users wait as drivers fight for special treatment. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, the council held a public debate on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, titled 'Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,' drew sharp lines. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once a hardliner against exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll backs limited carve-outs, saying, 'I think that there should be limited exemptions.' State Senator Andrew Gounardes stresses, 'Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible.' Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine pushes for toll credits and taxi exemptions. Advocacy groups warn against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide after federal review. The debate centers on who pays and who gets a pass, while the safety of people outside cars hangs in the balance.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2022-08-26
SUV Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist suffered facial bruises after a collision with a 2019 SUV on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV hit the bike’s center front while traveling west. Driver inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety gear.
According to the police report, a 27-year-old male bicyclist was injured when a 2019 Honda SUV struck him on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV was traveling west and impacted the bike’s center front end. The bicyclist, traveling north, suffered contusions and bruises to his face. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. It also notes some confusion or error on the part of the bicyclist but does not assign blame. The bicyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. The SUV sustained damage to its left rear quarter panel. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving in mixed traffic environments.
E-Scooter Rider Injured in Sedan Collision▸A 24-year-old male e-scooter rider was struck by a westbound sedan on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider suffered knee and lower leg injuries but remained conscious. Police cited driver distraction and rider confusion as contributing factors in the crash.
According to the police report, a 24-year-old male e-scooter driver was injured in a collision with a 2012 Nissan sedan traveling west on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider, wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his knee and lower leg but was conscious at the scene. The sedan struck the e-scooter with its right front bumper. Police identified driver inattention or distraction and pedestrian/bicyclist confusion as contributing factors. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The e-scooter rider was also moving straight ahead when the crash occurred. The report does not assign fault to the rider but highlights errors on both sides.
Two Sedans Collide on Olcott Street, Passenger Injured▸Two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The impact struck the left side doors of one vehicle. A 31-year-old female passenger suffered a back injury and shock. The crash involved failure to yield and driver distraction.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The point of impact was the left side doors of one vehicle and the center front end of the other. A 31-year-old female passenger in the right rear seat was injured, sustaining a back injury and shock. She was not ejected and was secured with a lap belt and harness. The report lists driver errors as failure to yield right-of-way and driver inattention or distraction. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash. The collision caused damage to the left side doors of one sedan and the front center of the other.
Comrie Supports Safety Boosting Penn Station Redevelopment Plan▸State authorities greenlit Governor Hochul’s Penn Station overhaul. The plan promises new towers, apartments, and a $7 billion station revamp. Senator Leroy Comrie backed the initial funding deal but demands federal support for future phases. Critics warn of secrecy and developer giveaways.
On July 27, 2022, the state’s Public Authorities Control Board approved Governor Kathy Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment plan. The project, described as a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity,' includes 18 million square feet of new office towers, 1,800 apartments, a $7 billion station upgrade, and promises of walkable streets and bike lanes. State Senator Leroy Comrie, representing District 14, voted for the initial PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement but pledged not to support future deals without federal funding and approvals. The plan faces criticism from watchdogs and officials like State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office, who called for a delay due to limited financial details. Reinvent Albany slammed the process for lacking transparency and questioned the reliance on developer tax breaks. The redevelopment’s impact on vulnerable road users remains unassessed.
-
State oversight body approves Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment,
amny.com,
Published 2022-07-27
Comrie Opposes Congestion Pricing Exemptions Safety Boosting▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie drew a hard line. No exemptions for Manhattan’s congestion tolls. He stood firm as others called for carve-outs. His stance means every car pays. No relief for drivers. The city’s most vulnerable stay in the crosshairs.
On June 29, 2022, State Senator Leroy Comrie made a public statement on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, covered by nypost.com, centers on calls from Mayor Eric Adams for more exemptions to the Manhattan congestion tolls. Adams argued, 'there should be a level of exemptions... so that we’re not overburdening New Yorkers.' But Comrie rejected this, stating, 'I don’t think there should be any exemptions, and I’m going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' The congestion pricing plan, passed in 2019, already exempts emergency vehicles, vehicles carrying disabled New Yorkers, and low-income residents inside the zone. Comrie’s stance keeps the system strict. No new carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board may still consider more, but Comrie’s position is clear: every driver pays the toll, no exceptions.
-
NYC Mayor Eric Adams calls for ‘exemptions’ to Manhattan congestion fees,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-06-29
A sedan hit a 52-year-old woman on a bike along Greenway South. She suffered broken bones and dislocations in her leg and foot. Police cite driver distraction. The cyclist stayed conscious. Metal met flesh. The street stayed silent.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Greenway South struck a 52-year-old female bicyclist riding southwest. The cyclist suffered fractures and dislocations to her knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. The sedan's right front quarter panel hit the bike's left front bumper. The bicyclist was conscious and not ejected. No other contributing factors or safety equipment details were noted. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash.
SUV Driver Injured in Yellowstone Boulevard Crash▸A 41-year-old male driver suffered chest injuries in a crash on Yellowstone Boulevard. The SUV struck an object with its left front bumper. The driver was incoherent but not ejected. Police cited driver inattention and improper lane usage as causes.
According to the police report, a 41-year-old male driver in a 2008 Nissan SUV traveling north on Yellowstone Boulevard was injured when his vehicle impacted an object with the left front bumper. The driver sustained chest injuries and was incoherent at the scene but remained inside the vehicle, secured by a lap belt. The report lists driver inattention and improper passing or lane usage as contributing factors. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved. The crash highlights the dangers of distracted driving and improper lane maneuvers in this area.
Unlicensed Driver Backs Into Sedan in Queens▸A sedan backing unsafely struck another sedan traveling south on Burns Street in Queens. The driver of the struck vehicle suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The backing driver was unlicensed. Both vehicles sustained damage to their right sides.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling south on Burns Street was hit on its right front bumper by another sedan backing east. The backing driver was unlicensed and caused the collision by backing unsafely. The driver of the struck vehicle, a 31-year-old man wearing a lap belt and harness, suffered neck injuries and complained of whiplash. The collision damaged the right front bumper of the struck vehicle and the right rear quarter panel of the backing vehicle. The report lists the contributing factor as "Backing Unsafely" and notes the backing driver was unlicensed. No other factors or victim errors were cited.
Sedan Rear-Ends Pickup Truck on Expressway▸A sedan slammed into the back of a pickup truck on the Long Island Expressway. The front passenger in the sedan, a 73-year-old man, suffered a back injury and shock. The crash was caused by following too closely.
According to the police report, a 2022 sedan traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a 2022 pickup truck going in the same direction. The front passenger in the sedan, a 73-year-old man, was injured with back trauma and experienced shock. The report lists "Following Too Closely" as the contributing factor to the collision. Both vehicles were moving straight ahead at the time of impact. The injured passenger was restrained by a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. The driver of the sedan was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
2SUVs Rear-End Crash on Long Island Expressway▸Two SUVs collided on the Long Island Expressway. Both drivers were traveling east. The impact caused neck injuries and whiplash to a driver and passenger. Police cited driver inattention and following too closely as causes.
According to the police report, two sport utility vehicles collided on the Long Island Expressway while traveling east. The crash involved rear-end impacts, with one SUV striking the center back end of another. Two occupants were injured: a 37-year-old male driver and a 36-year-old female passenger. Both suffered neck injuries and whiplash but were conscious and not ejected. The report lists multiple contributing factors, including 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' These driver errors led directly to the collision. Both occupants were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. No other factors or victim actions were noted in the report.
Pedestrian Hit Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 28-year-old woman was struck by a sedan making a right turn on Queens Boulevard. She was crossing with the signal when the driver failed to yield and was distracted. The pedestrian suffered abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis.
According to the police report, a 28-year-old female pedestrian was injured while crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection in Queens. The sedan, traveling east and making a right turn, struck her with its right front bumper. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal and was not ejected but sustained abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis. The report lists driver errors as Failure to Yield Right-of-Way and Driver Inattention/Distraction. No other contributing factors such as helmet use or signaling were noted. The driver’s failure to yield and distraction caused the collision, resulting in moderate injury to the pedestrian.
SUV Rear-Ends Sedan on Long Island Expressway▸A 59-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on the Long Island Expressway. The SUV struck the sedan from behind. The driver was conscious and restrained. The collision caused whiplash and front-end damage to the SUV.
According to the police report, a station wagon/SUV traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a sedan going in the same direction. The 59-year-old male driver of the SUV was injured, sustaining neck trauma and whiplash. The report lists driver inattention/distraction and following too closely as contributing factors. The driver was wearing a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. Both vehicles sustained center-end damage, with the SUV impacting the sedan's rear. No other injuries or pedestrians were involved.
Comrie Warns Against Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions▸Lawmakers spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want tight limits. Others push for taxi exemptions and tunnel credits. Advocates warn: too many carve-outs gut the plan. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, New York officials debated congestion pricing exemptions as the policy neared implementation. The discussion, covered by Streetsblog NYC, highlighted shifting positions. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once opposed to exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll said, "I think that there should be limited exemptions." State Senator Andrew Gounardes added, "Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible." Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine backed toll credits for tunnel users and taxi exemptions. Taxi and for-hire drivers lobbied for relief, citing existing surcharges. Advocacy groups warned against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide on further exemptions after federal review. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-08-26
Comrie Warns Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions Create Major Problems▸Council and state leaders spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want carve-outs. Others warn exemptions gut the plan. Vulnerable road users wait as drivers fight for special treatment. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, the council held a public debate on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, titled 'Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,' drew sharp lines. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once a hardliner against exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll backs limited carve-outs, saying, 'I think that there should be limited exemptions.' State Senator Andrew Gounardes stresses, 'Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible.' Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine pushes for toll credits and taxi exemptions. Advocacy groups warn against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide after federal review. The debate centers on who pays and who gets a pass, while the safety of people outside cars hangs in the balance.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2022-08-26
SUV Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist suffered facial bruises after a collision with a 2019 SUV on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV hit the bike’s center front while traveling west. Driver inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety gear.
According to the police report, a 27-year-old male bicyclist was injured when a 2019 Honda SUV struck him on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV was traveling west and impacted the bike’s center front end. The bicyclist, traveling north, suffered contusions and bruises to his face. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. It also notes some confusion or error on the part of the bicyclist but does not assign blame. The bicyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. The SUV sustained damage to its left rear quarter panel. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving in mixed traffic environments.
E-Scooter Rider Injured in Sedan Collision▸A 24-year-old male e-scooter rider was struck by a westbound sedan on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider suffered knee and lower leg injuries but remained conscious. Police cited driver distraction and rider confusion as contributing factors in the crash.
According to the police report, a 24-year-old male e-scooter driver was injured in a collision with a 2012 Nissan sedan traveling west on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider, wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his knee and lower leg but was conscious at the scene. The sedan struck the e-scooter with its right front bumper. Police identified driver inattention or distraction and pedestrian/bicyclist confusion as contributing factors. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The e-scooter rider was also moving straight ahead when the crash occurred. The report does not assign fault to the rider but highlights errors on both sides.
Two Sedans Collide on Olcott Street, Passenger Injured▸Two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The impact struck the left side doors of one vehicle. A 31-year-old female passenger suffered a back injury and shock. The crash involved failure to yield and driver distraction.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The point of impact was the left side doors of one vehicle and the center front end of the other. A 31-year-old female passenger in the right rear seat was injured, sustaining a back injury and shock. She was not ejected and was secured with a lap belt and harness. The report lists driver errors as failure to yield right-of-way and driver inattention or distraction. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash. The collision caused damage to the left side doors of one sedan and the front center of the other.
Comrie Supports Safety Boosting Penn Station Redevelopment Plan▸State authorities greenlit Governor Hochul’s Penn Station overhaul. The plan promises new towers, apartments, and a $7 billion station revamp. Senator Leroy Comrie backed the initial funding deal but demands federal support for future phases. Critics warn of secrecy and developer giveaways.
On July 27, 2022, the state’s Public Authorities Control Board approved Governor Kathy Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment plan. The project, described as a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity,' includes 18 million square feet of new office towers, 1,800 apartments, a $7 billion station upgrade, and promises of walkable streets and bike lanes. State Senator Leroy Comrie, representing District 14, voted for the initial PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement but pledged not to support future deals without federal funding and approvals. The plan faces criticism from watchdogs and officials like State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office, who called for a delay due to limited financial details. Reinvent Albany slammed the process for lacking transparency and questioned the reliance on developer tax breaks. The redevelopment’s impact on vulnerable road users remains unassessed.
-
State oversight body approves Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment,
amny.com,
Published 2022-07-27
Comrie Opposes Congestion Pricing Exemptions Safety Boosting▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie drew a hard line. No exemptions for Manhattan’s congestion tolls. He stood firm as others called for carve-outs. His stance means every car pays. No relief for drivers. The city’s most vulnerable stay in the crosshairs.
On June 29, 2022, State Senator Leroy Comrie made a public statement on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, covered by nypost.com, centers on calls from Mayor Eric Adams for more exemptions to the Manhattan congestion tolls. Adams argued, 'there should be a level of exemptions... so that we’re not overburdening New Yorkers.' But Comrie rejected this, stating, 'I don’t think there should be any exemptions, and I’m going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' The congestion pricing plan, passed in 2019, already exempts emergency vehicles, vehicles carrying disabled New Yorkers, and low-income residents inside the zone. Comrie’s stance keeps the system strict. No new carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board may still consider more, but Comrie’s position is clear: every driver pays the toll, no exceptions.
-
NYC Mayor Eric Adams calls for ‘exemptions’ to Manhattan congestion fees,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-06-29
A 41-year-old male driver suffered chest injuries in a crash on Yellowstone Boulevard. The SUV struck an object with its left front bumper. The driver was incoherent but not ejected. Police cited driver inattention and improper lane usage as causes.
According to the police report, a 41-year-old male driver in a 2008 Nissan SUV traveling north on Yellowstone Boulevard was injured when his vehicle impacted an object with the left front bumper. The driver sustained chest injuries and was incoherent at the scene but remained inside the vehicle, secured by a lap belt. The report lists driver inattention and improper passing or lane usage as contributing factors. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved. The crash highlights the dangers of distracted driving and improper lane maneuvers in this area.
Unlicensed Driver Backs Into Sedan in Queens▸A sedan backing unsafely struck another sedan traveling south on Burns Street in Queens. The driver of the struck vehicle suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The backing driver was unlicensed. Both vehicles sustained damage to their right sides.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling south on Burns Street was hit on its right front bumper by another sedan backing east. The backing driver was unlicensed and caused the collision by backing unsafely. The driver of the struck vehicle, a 31-year-old man wearing a lap belt and harness, suffered neck injuries and complained of whiplash. The collision damaged the right front bumper of the struck vehicle and the right rear quarter panel of the backing vehicle. The report lists the contributing factor as "Backing Unsafely" and notes the backing driver was unlicensed. No other factors or victim errors were cited.
Sedan Rear-Ends Pickup Truck on Expressway▸A sedan slammed into the back of a pickup truck on the Long Island Expressway. The front passenger in the sedan, a 73-year-old man, suffered a back injury and shock. The crash was caused by following too closely.
According to the police report, a 2022 sedan traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a 2022 pickup truck going in the same direction. The front passenger in the sedan, a 73-year-old man, was injured with back trauma and experienced shock. The report lists "Following Too Closely" as the contributing factor to the collision. Both vehicles were moving straight ahead at the time of impact. The injured passenger was restrained by a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. The driver of the sedan was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
2SUVs Rear-End Crash on Long Island Expressway▸Two SUVs collided on the Long Island Expressway. Both drivers were traveling east. The impact caused neck injuries and whiplash to a driver and passenger. Police cited driver inattention and following too closely as causes.
According to the police report, two sport utility vehicles collided on the Long Island Expressway while traveling east. The crash involved rear-end impacts, with one SUV striking the center back end of another. Two occupants were injured: a 37-year-old male driver and a 36-year-old female passenger. Both suffered neck injuries and whiplash but were conscious and not ejected. The report lists multiple contributing factors, including 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' These driver errors led directly to the collision. Both occupants were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. No other factors or victim actions were noted in the report.
Pedestrian Hit Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 28-year-old woman was struck by a sedan making a right turn on Queens Boulevard. She was crossing with the signal when the driver failed to yield and was distracted. The pedestrian suffered abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis.
According to the police report, a 28-year-old female pedestrian was injured while crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection in Queens. The sedan, traveling east and making a right turn, struck her with its right front bumper. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal and was not ejected but sustained abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis. The report lists driver errors as Failure to Yield Right-of-Way and Driver Inattention/Distraction. No other contributing factors such as helmet use or signaling were noted. The driver’s failure to yield and distraction caused the collision, resulting in moderate injury to the pedestrian.
SUV Rear-Ends Sedan on Long Island Expressway▸A 59-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on the Long Island Expressway. The SUV struck the sedan from behind. The driver was conscious and restrained. The collision caused whiplash and front-end damage to the SUV.
According to the police report, a station wagon/SUV traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a sedan going in the same direction. The 59-year-old male driver of the SUV was injured, sustaining neck trauma and whiplash. The report lists driver inattention/distraction and following too closely as contributing factors. The driver was wearing a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. Both vehicles sustained center-end damage, with the SUV impacting the sedan's rear. No other injuries or pedestrians were involved.
Comrie Warns Against Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions▸Lawmakers spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want tight limits. Others push for taxi exemptions and tunnel credits. Advocates warn: too many carve-outs gut the plan. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, New York officials debated congestion pricing exemptions as the policy neared implementation. The discussion, covered by Streetsblog NYC, highlighted shifting positions. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once opposed to exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll said, "I think that there should be limited exemptions." State Senator Andrew Gounardes added, "Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible." Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine backed toll credits for tunnel users and taxi exemptions. Taxi and for-hire drivers lobbied for relief, citing existing surcharges. Advocacy groups warned against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide on further exemptions after federal review. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-08-26
Comrie Warns Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions Create Major Problems▸Council and state leaders spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want carve-outs. Others warn exemptions gut the plan. Vulnerable road users wait as drivers fight for special treatment. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, the council held a public debate on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, titled 'Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,' drew sharp lines. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once a hardliner against exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll backs limited carve-outs, saying, 'I think that there should be limited exemptions.' State Senator Andrew Gounardes stresses, 'Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible.' Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine pushes for toll credits and taxi exemptions. Advocacy groups warn against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide after federal review. The debate centers on who pays and who gets a pass, while the safety of people outside cars hangs in the balance.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2022-08-26
SUV Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist suffered facial bruises after a collision with a 2019 SUV on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV hit the bike’s center front while traveling west. Driver inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety gear.
According to the police report, a 27-year-old male bicyclist was injured when a 2019 Honda SUV struck him on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV was traveling west and impacted the bike’s center front end. The bicyclist, traveling north, suffered contusions and bruises to his face. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. It also notes some confusion or error on the part of the bicyclist but does not assign blame. The bicyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. The SUV sustained damage to its left rear quarter panel. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving in mixed traffic environments.
E-Scooter Rider Injured in Sedan Collision▸A 24-year-old male e-scooter rider was struck by a westbound sedan on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider suffered knee and lower leg injuries but remained conscious. Police cited driver distraction and rider confusion as contributing factors in the crash.
According to the police report, a 24-year-old male e-scooter driver was injured in a collision with a 2012 Nissan sedan traveling west on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider, wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his knee and lower leg but was conscious at the scene. The sedan struck the e-scooter with its right front bumper. Police identified driver inattention or distraction and pedestrian/bicyclist confusion as contributing factors. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The e-scooter rider was also moving straight ahead when the crash occurred. The report does not assign fault to the rider but highlights errors on both sides.
Two Sedans Collide on Olcott Street, Passenger Injured▸Two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The impact struck the left side doors of one vehicle. A 31-year-old female passenger suffered a back injury and shock. The crash involved failure to yield and driver distraction.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The point of impact was the left side doors of one vehicle and the center front end of the other. A 31-year-old female passenger in the right rear seat was injured, sustaining a back injury and shock. She was not ejected and was secured with a lap belt and harness. The report lists driver errors as failure to yield right-of-way and driver inattention or distraction. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash. The collision caused damage to the left side doors of one sedan and the front center of the other.
Comrie Supports Safety Boosting Penn Station Redevelopment Plan▸State authorities greenlit Governor Hochul’s Penn Station overhaul. The plan promises new towers, apartments, and a $7 billion station revamp. Senator Leroy Comrie backed the initial funding deal but demands federal support for future phases. Critics warn of secrecy and developer giveaways.
On July 27, 2022, the state’s Public Authorities Control Board approved Governor Kathy Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment plan. The project, described as a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity,' includes 18 million square feet of new office towers, 1,800 apartments, a $7 billion station upgrade, and promises of walkable streets and bike lanes. State Senator Leroy Comrie, representing District 14, voted for the initial PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement but pledged not to support future deals without federal funding and approvals. The plan faces criticism from watchdogs and officials like State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office, who called for a delay due to limited financial details. Reinvent Albany slammed the process for lacking transparency and questioned the reliance on developer tax breaks. The redevelopment’s impact on vulnerable road users remains unassessed.
-
State oversight body approves Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment,
amny.com,
Published 2022-07-27
Comrie Opposes Congestion Pricing Exemptions Safety Boosting▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie drew a hard line. No exemptions for Manhattan’s congestion tolls. He stood firm as others called for carve-outs. His stance means every car pays. No relief for drivers. The city’s most vulnerable stay in the crosshairs.
On June 29, 2022, State Senator Leroy Comrie made a public statement on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, covered by nypost.com, centers on calls from Mayor Eric Adams for more exemptions to the Manhattan congestion tolls. Adams argued, 'there should be a level of exemptions... so that we’re not overburdening New Yorkers.' But Comrie rejected this, stating, 'I don’t think there should be any exemptions, and I’m going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' The congestion pricing plan, passed in 2019, already exempts emergency vehicles, vehicles carrying disabled New Yorkers, and low-income residents inside the zone. Comrie’s stance keeps the system strict. No new carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board may still consider more, but Comrie’s position is clear: every driver pays the toll, no exceptions.
-
NYC Mayor Eric Adams calls for ‘exemptions’ to Manhattan congestion fees,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-06-29
A sedan backing unsafely struck another sedan traveling south on Burns Street in Queens. The driver of the struck vehicle suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The backing driver was unlicensed. Both vehicles sustained damage to their right sides.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling south on Burns Street was hit on its right front bumper by another sedan backing east. The backing driver was unlicensed and caused the collision by backing unsafely. The driver of the struck vehicle, a 31-year-old man wearing a lap belt and harness, suffered neck injuries and complained of whiplash. The collision damaged the right front bumper of the struck vehicle and the right rear quarter panel of the backing vehicle. The report lists the contributing factor as "Backing Unsafely" and notes the backing driver was unlicensed. No other factors or victim errors were cited.
Sedan Rear-Ends Pickup Truck on Expressway▸A sedan slammed into the back of a pickup truck on the Long Island Expressway. The front passenger in the sedan, a 73-year-old man, suffered a back injury and shock. The crash was caused by following too closely.
According to the police report, a 2022 sedan traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a 2022 pickup truck going in the same direction. The front passenger in the sedan, a 73-year-old man, was injured with back trauma and experienced shock. The report lists "Following Too Closely" as the contributing factor to the collision. Both vehicles were moving straight ahead at the time of impact. The injured passenger was restrained by a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. The driver of the sedan was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
2SUVs Rear-End Crash on Long Island Expressway▸Two SUVs collided on the Long Island Expressway. Both drivers were traveling east. The impact caused neck injuries and whiplash to a driver and passenger. Police cited driver inattention and following too closely as causes.
According to the police report, two sport utility vehicles collided on the Long Island Expressway while traveling east. The crash involved rear-end impacts, with one SUV striking the center back end of another. Two occupants were injured: a 37-year-old male driver and a 36-year-old female passenger. Both suffered neck injuries and whiplash but were conscious and not ejected. The report lists multiple contributing factors, including 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' These driver errors led directly to the collision. Both occupants were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. No other factors or victim actions were noted in the report.
Pedestrian Hit Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 28-year-old woman was struck by a sedan making a right turn on Queens Boulevard. She was crossing with the signal when the driver failed to yield and was distracted. The pedestrian suffered abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis.
According to the police report, a 28-year-old female pedestrian was injured while crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection in Queens. The sedan, traveling east and making a right turn, struck her with its right front bumper. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal and was not ejected but sustained abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis. The report lists driver errors as Failure to Yield Right-of-Way and Driver Inattention/Distraction. No other contributing factors such as helmet use or signaling were noted. The driver’s failure to yield and distraction caused the collision, resulting in moderate injury to the pedestrian.
SUV Rear-Ends Sedan on Long Island Expressway▸A 59-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on the Long Island Expressway. The SUV struck the sedan from behind. The driver was conscious and restrained. The collision caused whiplash and front-end damage to the SUV.
According to the police report, a station wagon/SUV traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a sedan going in the same direction. The 59-year-old male driver of the SUV was injured, sustaining neck trauma and whiplash. The report lists driver inattention/distraction and following too closely as contributing factors. The driver was wearing a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. Both vehicles sustained center-end damage, with the SUV impacting the sedan's rear. No other injuries or pedestrians were involved.
Comrie Warns Against Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions▸Lawmakers spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want tight limits. Others push for taxi exemptions and tunnel credits. Advocates warn: too many carve-outs gut the plan. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, New York officials debated congestion pricing exemptions as the policy neared implementation. The discussion, covered by Streetsblog NYC, highlighted shifting positions. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once opposed to exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll said, "I think that there should be limited exemptions." State Senator Andrew Gounardes added, "Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible." Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine backed toll credits for tunnel users and taxi exemptions. Taxi and for-hire drivers lobbied for relief, citing existing surcharges. Advocacy groups warned against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide on further exemptions after federal review. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-08-26
Comrie Warns Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions Create Major Problems▸Council and state leaders spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want carve-outs. Others warn exemptions gut the plan. Vulnerable road users wait as drivers fight for special treatment. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, the council held a public debate on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, titled 'Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,' drew sharp lines. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once a hardliner against exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll backs limited carve-outs, saying, 'I think that there should be limited exemptions.' State Senator Andrew Gounardes stresses, 'Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible.' Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine pushes for toll credits and taxi exemptions. Advocacy groups warn against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide after federal review. The debate centers on who pays and who gets a pass, while the safety of people outside cars hangs in the balance.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2022-08-26
SUV Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist suffered facial bruises after a collision with a 2019 SUV on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV hit the bike’s center front while traveling west. Driver inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety gear.
According to the police report, a 27-year-old male bicyclist was injured when a 2019 Honda SUV struck him on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV was traveling west and impacted the bike’s center front end. The bicyclist, traveling north, suffered contusions and bruises to his face. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. It also notes some confusion or error on the part of the bicyclist but does not assign blame. The bicyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. The SUV sustained damage to its left rear quarter panel. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving in mixed traffic environments.
E-Scooter Rider Injured in Sedan Collision▸A 24-year-old male e-scooter rider was struck by a westbound sedan on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider suffered knee and lower leg injuries but remained conscious. Police cited driver distraction and rider confusion as contributing factors in the crash.
According to the police report, a 24-year-old male e-scooter driver was injured in a collision with a 2012 Nissan sedan traveling west on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider, wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his knee and lower leg but was conscious at the scene. The sedan struck the e-scooter with its right front bumper. Police identified driver inattention or distraction and pedestrian/bicyclist confusion as contributing factors. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The e-scooter rider was also moving straight ahead when the crash occurred. The report does not assign fault to the rider but highlights errors on both sides.
Two Sedans Collide on Olcott Street, Passenger Injured▸Two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The impact struck the left side doors of one vehicle. A 31-year-old female passenger suffered a back injury and shock. The crash involved failure to yield and driver distraction.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The point of impact was the left side doors of one vehicle and the center front end of the other. A 31-year-old female passenger in the right rear seat was injured, sustaining a back injury and shock. She was not ejected and was secured with a lap belt and harness. The report lists driver errors as failure to yield right-of-way and driver inattention or distraction. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash. The collision caused damage to the left side doors of one sedan and the front center of the other.
Comrie Supports Safety Boosting Penn Station Redevelopment Plan▸State authorities greenlit Governor Hochul’s Penn Station overhaul. The plan promises new towers, apartments, and a $7 billion station revamp. Senator Leroy Comrie backed the initial funding deal but demands federal support for future phases. Critics warn of secrecy and developer giveaways.
On July 27, 2022, the state’s Public Authorities Control Board approved Governor Kathy Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment plan. The project, described as a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity,' includes 18 million square feet of new office towers, 1,800 apartments, a $7 billion station upgrade, and promises of walkable streets and bike lanes. State Senator Leroy Comrie, representing District 14, voted for the initial PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement but pledged not to support future deals without federal funding and approvals. The plan faces criticism from watchdogs and officials like State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office, who called for a delay due to limited financial details. Reinvent Albany slammed the process for lacking transparency and questioned the reliance on developer tax breaks. The redevelopment’s impact on vulnerable road users remains unassessed.
-
State oversight body approves Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment,
amny.com,
Published 2022-07-27
Comrie Opposes Congestion Pricing Exemptions Safety Boosting▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie drew a hard line. No exemptions for Manhattan’s congestion tolls. He stood firm as others called for carve-outs. His stance means every car pays. No relief for drivers. The city’s most vulnerable stay in the crosshairs.
On June 29, 2022, State Senator Leroy Comrie made a public statement on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, covered by nypost.com, centers on calls from Mayor Eric Adams for more exemptions to the Manhattan congestion tolls. Adams argued, 'there should be a level of exemptions... so that we’re not overburdening New Yorkers.' But Comrie rejected this, stating, 'I don’t think there should be any exemptions, and I’m going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' The congestion pricing plan, passed in 2019, already exempts emergency vehicles, vehicles carrying disabled New Yorkers, and low-income residents inside the zone. Comrie’s stance keeps the system strict. No new carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board may still consider more, but Comrie’s position is clear: every driver pays the toll, no exceptions.
-
NYC Mayor Eric Adams calls for ‘exemptions’ to Manhattan congestion fees,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-06-29
A sedan slammed into the back of a pickup truck on the Long Island Expressway. The front passenger in the sedan, a 73-year-old man, suffered a back injury and shock. The crash was caused by following too closely.
According to the police report, a 2022 sedan traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a 2022 pickup truck going in the same direction. The front passenger in the sedan, a 73-year-old man, was injured with back trauma and experienced shock. The report lists "Following Too Closely" as the contributing factor to the collision. Both vehicles were moving straight ahead at the time of impact. The injured passenger was restrained by a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. The driver of the sedan was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
2SUVs Rear-End Crash on Long Island Expressway▸Two SUVs collided on the Long Island Expressway. Both drivers were traveling east. The impact caused neck injuries and whiplash to a driver and passenger. Police cited driver inattention and following too closely as causes.
According to the police report, two sport utility vehicles collided on the Long Island Expressway while traveling east. The crash involved rear-end impacts, with one SUV striking the center back end of another. Two occupants were injured: a 37-year-old male driver and a 36-year-old female passenger. Both suffered neck injuries and whiplash but were conscious and not ejected. The report lists multiple contributing factors, including 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' These driver errors led directly to the collision. Both occupants were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. No other factors or victim actions were noted in the report.
Pedestrian Hit Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 28-year-old woman was struck by a sedan making a right turn on Queens Boulevard. She was crossing with the signal when the driver failed to yield and was distracted. The pedestrian suffered abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis.
According to the police report, a 28-year-old female pedestrian was injured while crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection in Queens. The sedan, traveling east and making a right turn, struck her with its right front bumper. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal and was not ejected but sustained abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis. The report lists driver errors as Failure to Yield Right-of-Way and Driver Inattention/Distraction. No other contributing factors such as helmet use or signaling were noted. The driver’s failure to yield and distraction caused the collision, resulting in moderate injury to the pedestrian.
SUV Rear-Ends Sedan on Long Island Expressway▸A 59-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on the Long Island Expressway. The SUV struck the sedan from behind. The driver was conscious and restrained. The collision caused whiplash and front-end damage to the SUV.
According to the police report, a station wagon/SUV traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a sedan going in the same direction. The 59-year-old male driver of the SUV was injured, sustaining neck trauma and whiplash. The report lists driver inattention/distraction and following too closely as contributing factors. The driver was wearing a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. Both vehicles sustained center-end damage, with the SUV impacting the sedan's rear. No other injuries or pedestrians were involved.
Comrie Warns Against Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions▸Lawmakers spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want tight limits. Others push for taxi exemptions and tunnel credits. Advocates warn: too many carve-outs gut the plan. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, New York officials debated congestion pricing exemptions as the policy neared implementation. The discussion, covered by Streetsblog NYC, highlighted shifting positions. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once opposed to exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll said, "I think that there should be limited exemptions." State Senator Andrew Gounardes added, "Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible." Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine backed toll credits for tunnel users and taxi exemptions. Taxi and for-hire drivers lobbied for relief, citing existing surcharges. Advocacy groups warned against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide on further exemptions after federal review. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-08-26
Comrie Warns Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions Create Major Problems▸Council and state leaders spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want carve-outs. Others warn exemptions gut the plan. Vulnerable road users wait as drivers fight for special treatment. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, the council held a public debate on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, titled 'Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,' drew sharp lines. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once a hardliner against exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll backs limited carve-outs, saying, 'I think that there should be limited exemptions.' State Senator Andrew Gounardes stresses, 'Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible.' Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine pushes for toll credits and taxi exemptions. Advocacy groups warn against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide after federal review. The debate centers on who pays and who gets a pass, while the safety of people outside cars hangs in the balance.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2022-08-26
SUV Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist suffered facial bruises after a collision with a 2019 SUV on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV hit the bike’s center front while traveling west. Driver inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety gear.
According to the police report, a 27-year-old male bicyclist was injured when a 2019 Honda SUV struck him on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV was traveling west and impacted the bike’s center front end. The bicyclist, traveling north, suffered contusions and bruises to his face. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. It also notes some confusion or error on the part of the bicyclist but does not assign blame. The bicyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. The SUV sustained damage to its left rear quarter panel. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving in mixed traffic environments.
E-Scooter Rider Injured in Sedan Collision▸A 24-year-old male e-scooter rider was struck by a westbound sedan on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider suffered knee and lower leg injuries but remained conscious. Police cited driver distraction and rider confusion as contributing factors in the crash.
According to the police report, a 24-year-old male e-scooter driver was injured in a collision with a 2012 Nissan sedan traveling west on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider, wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his knee and lower leg but was conscious at the scene. The sedan struck the e-scooter with its right front bumper. Police identified driver inattention or distraction and pedestrian/bicyclist confusion as contributing factors. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The e-scooter rider was also moving straight ahead when the crash occurred. The report does not assign fault to the rider but highlights errors on both sides.
Two Sedans Collide on Olcott Street, Passenger Injured▸Two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The impact struck the left side doors of one vehicle. A 31-year-old female passenger suffered a back injury and shock. The crash involved failure to yield and driver distraction.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The point of impact was the left side doors of one vehicle and the center front end of the other. A 31-year-old female passenger in the right rear seat was injured, sustaining a back injury and shock. She was not ejected and was secured with a lap belt and harness. The report lists driver errors as failure to yield right-of-way and driver inattention or distraction. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash. The collision caused damage to the left side doors of one sedan and the front center of the other.
Comrie Supports Safety Boosting Penn Station Redevelopment Plan▸State authorities greenlit Governor Hochul’s Penn Station overhaul. The plan promises new towers, apartments, and a $7 billion station revamp. Senator Leroy Comrie backed the initial funding deal but demands federal support for future phases. Critics warn of secrecy and developer giveaways.
On July 27, 2022, the state’s Public Authorities Control Board approved Governor Kathy Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment plan. The project, described as a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity,' includes 18 million square feet of new office towers, 1,800 apartments, a $7 billion station upgrade, and promises of walkable streets and bike lanes. State Senator Leroy Comrie, representing District 14, voted for the initial PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement but pledged not to support future deals without federal funding and approvals. The plan faces criticism from watchdogs and officials like State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office, who called for a delay due to limited financial details. Reinvent Albany slammed the process for lacking transparency and questioned the reliance on developer tax breaks. The redevelopment’s impact on vulnerable road users remains unassessed.
-
State oversight body approves Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment,
amny.com,
Published 2022-07-27
Comrie Opposes Congestion Pricing Exemptions Safety Boosting▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie drew a hard line. No exemptions for Manhattan’s congestion tolls. He stood firm as others called for carve-outs. His stance means every car pays. No relief for drivers. The city’s most vulnerable stay in the crosshairs.
On June 29, 2022, State Senator Leroy Comrie made a public statement on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, covered by nypost.com, centers on calls from Mayor Eric Adams for more exemptions to the Manhattan congestion tolls. Adams argued, 'there should be a level of exemptions... so that we’re not overburdening New Yorkers.' But Comrie rejected this, stating, 'I don’t think there should be any exemptions, and I’m going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' The congestion pricing plan, passed in 2019, already exempts emergency vehicles, vehicles carrying disabled New Yorkers, and low-income residents inside the zone. Comrie’s stance keeps the system strict. No new carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board may still consider more, but Comrie’s position is clear: every driver pays the toll, no exceptions.
-
NYC Mayor Eric Adams calls for ‘exemptions’ to Manhattan congestion fees,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-06-29
Two SUVs collided on the Long Island Expressway. Both drivers were traveling east. The impact caused neck injuries and whiplash to a driver and passenger. Police cited driver inattention and following too closely as causes.
According to the police report, two sport utility vehicles collided on the Long Island Expressway while traveling east. The crash involved rear-end impacts, with one SUV striking the center back end of another. Two occupants were injured: a 37-year-old male driver and a 36-year-old female passenger. Both suffered neck injuries and whiplash but were conscious and not ejected. The report lists multiple contributing factors, including 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' These driver errors led directly to the collision. Both occupants were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. No other factors or victim actions were noted in the report.
Pedestrian Hit Crossing Queens Boulevard▸A 28-year-old woman was struck by a sedan making a right turn on Queens Boulevard. She was crossing with the signal when the driver failed to yield and was distracted. The pedestrian suffered abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis.
According to the police report, a 28-year-old female pedestrian was injured while crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection in Queens. The sedan, traveling east and making a right turn, struck her with its right front bumper. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal and was not ejected but sustained abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis. The report lists driver errors as Failure to Yield Right-of-Way and Driver Inattention/Distraction. No other contributing factors such as helmet use or signaling were noted. The driver’s failure to yield and distraction caused the collision, resulting in moderate injury to the pedestrian.
SUV Rear-Ends Sedan on Long Island Expressway▸A 59-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on the Long Island Expressway. The SUV struck the sedan from behind. The driver was conscious and restrained. The collision caused whiplash and front-end damage to the SUV.
According to the police report, a station wagon/SUV traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a sedan going in the same direction. The 59-year-old male driver of the SUV was injured, sustaining neck trauma and whiplash. The report lists driver inattention/distraction and following too closely as contributing factors. The driver was wearing a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. Both vehicles sustained center-end damage, with the SUV impacting the sedan's rear. No other injuries or pedestrians were involved.
Comrie Warns Against Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions▸Lawmakers spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want tight limits. Others push for taxi exemptions and tunnel credits. Advocates warn: too many carve-outs gut the plan. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, New York officials debated congestion pricing exemptions as the policy neared implementation. The discussion, covered by Streetsblog NYC, highlighted shifting positions. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once opposed to exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll said, "I think that there should be limited exemptions." State Senator Andrew Gounardes added, "Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible." Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine backed toll credits for tunnel users and taxi exemptions. Taxi and for-hire drivers lobbied for relief, citing existing surcharges. Advocacy groups warned against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide on further exemptions after federal review. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-08-26
Comrie Warns Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions Create Major Problems▸Council and state leaders spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want carve-outs. Others warn exemptions gut the plan. Vulnerable road users wait as drivers fight for special treatment. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, the council held a public debate on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, titled 'Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,' drew sharp lines. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once a hardliner against exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll backs limited carve-outs, saying, 'I think that there should be limited exemptions.' State Senator Andrew Gounardes stresses, 'Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible.' Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine pushes for toll credits and taxi exemptions. Advocacy groups warn against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide after federal review. The debate centers on who pays and who gets a pass, while the safety of people outside cars hangs in the balance.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2022-08-26
SUV Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist suffered facial bruises after a collision with a 2019 SUV on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV hit the bike’s center front while traveling west. Driver inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety gear.
According to the police report, a 27-year-old male bicyclist was injured when a 2019 Honda SUV struck him on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV was traveling west and impacted the bike’s center front end. The bicyclist, traveling north, suffered contusions and bruises to his face. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. It also notes some confusion or error on the part of the bicyclist but does not assign blame. The bicyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. The SUV sustained damage to its left rear quarter panel. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving in mixed traffic environments.
E-Scooter Rider Injured in Sedan Collision▸A 24-year-old male e-scooter rider was struck by a westbound sedan on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider suffered knee and lower leg injuries but remained conscious. Police cited driver distraction and rider confusion as contributing factors in the crash.
According to the police report, a 24-year-old male e-scooter driver was injured in a collision with a 2012 Nissan sedan traveling west on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider, wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his knee and lower leg but was conscious at the scene. The sedan struck the e-scooter with its right front bumper. Police identified driver inattention or distraction and pedestrian/bicyclist confusion as contributing factors. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The e-scooter rider was also moving straight ahead when the crash occurred. The report does not assign fault to the rider but highlights errors on both sides.
Two Sedans Collide on Olcott Street, Passenger Injured▸Two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The impact struck the left side doors of one vehicle. A 31-year-old female passenger suffered a back injury and shock. The crash involved failure to yield and driver distraction.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The point of impact was the left side doors of one vehicle and the center front end of the other. A 31-year-old female passenger in the right rear seat was injured, sustaining a back injury and shock. She was not ejected and was secured with a lap belt and harness. The report lists driver errors as failure to yield right-of-way and driver inattention or distraction. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash. The collision caused damage to the left side doors of one sedan and the front center of the other.
Comrie Supports Safety Boosting Penn Station Redevelopment Plan▸State authorities greenlit Governor Hochul’s Penn Station overhaul. The plan promises new towers, apartments, and a $7 billion station revamp. Senator Leroy Comrie backed the initial funding deal but demands federal support for future phases. Critics warn of secrecy and developer giveaways.
On July 27, 2022, the state’s Public Authorities Control Board approved Governor Kathy Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment plan. The project, described as a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity,' includes 18 million square feet of new office towers, 1,800 apartments, a $7 billion station upgrade, and promises of walkable streets and bike lanes. State Senator Leroy Comrie, representing District 14, voted for the initial PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement but pledged not to support future deals without federal funding and approvals. The plan faces criticism from watchdogs and officials like State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office, who called for a delay due to limited financial details. Reinvent Albany slammed the process for lacking transparency and questioned the reliance on developer tax breaks. The redevelopment’s impact on vulnerable road users remains unassessed.
-
State oversight body approves Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment,
amny.com,
Published 2022-07-27
Comrie Opposes Congestion Pricing Exemptions Safety Boosting▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie drew a hard line. No exemptions for Manhattan’s congestion tolls. He stood firm as others called for carve-outs. His stance means every car pays. No relief for drivers. The city’s most vulnerable stay in the crosshairs.
On June 29, 2022, State Senator Leroy Comrie made a public statement on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, covered by nypost.com, centers on calls from Mayor Eric Adams for more exemptions to the Manhattan congestion tolls. Adams argued, 'there should be a level of exemptions... so that we’re not overburdening New Yorkers.' But Comrie rejected this, stating, 'I don’t think there should be any exemptions, and I’m going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' The congestion pricing plan, passed in 2019, already exempts emergency vehicles, vehicles carrying disabled New Yorkers, and low-income residents inside the zone. Comrie’s stance keeps the system strict. No new carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board may still consider more, but Comrie’s position is clear: every driver pays the toll, no exceptions.
-
NYC Mayor Eric Adams calls for ‘exemptions’ to Manhattan congestion fees,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-06-29
A 28-year-old woman was struck by a sedan making a right turn on Queens Boulevard. She was crossing with the signal when the driver failed to yield and was distracted. The pedestrian suffered abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis.
According to the police report, a 28-year-old female pedestrian was injured while crossing Queens Boulevard at an intersection in Queens. The sedan, traveling east and making a right turn, struck her with its right front bumper. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal and was not ejected but sustained abrasions to her abdomen and pelvis. The report lists driver errors as Failure to Yield Right-of-Way and Driver Inattention/Distraction. No other contributing factors such as helmet use or signaling were noted. The driver’s failure to yield and distraction caused the collision, resulting in moderate injury to the pedestrian.
SUV Rear-Ends Sedan on Long Island Expressway▸A 59-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on the Long Island Expressway. The SUV struck the sedan from behind. The driver was conscious and restrained. The collision caused whiplash and front-end damage to the SUV.
According to the police report, a station wagon/SUV traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a sedan going in the same direction. The 59-year-old male driver of the SUV was injured, sustaining neck trauma and whiplash. The report lists driver inattention/distraction and following too closely as contributing factors. The driver was wearing a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. Both vehicles sustained center-end damage, with the SUV impacting the sedan's rear. No other injuries or pedestrians were involved.
Comrie Warns Against Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions▸Lawmakers spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want tight limits. Others push for taxi exemptions and tunnel credits. Advocates warn: too many carve-outs gut the plan. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, New York officials debated congestion pricing exemptions as the policy neared implementation. The discussion, covered by Streetsblog NYC, highlighted shifting positions. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once opposed to exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll said, "I think that there should be limited exemptions." State Senator Andrew Gounardes added, "Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible." Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine backed toll credits for tunnel users and taxi exemptions. Taxi and for-hire drivers lobbied for relief, citing existing surcharges. Advocacy groups warned against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide on further exemptions after federal review. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-08-26
Comrie Warns Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions Create Major Problems▸Council and state leaders spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want carve-outs. Others warn exemptions gut the plan. Vulnerable road users wait as drivers fight for special treatment. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, the council held a public debate on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, titled 'Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,' drew sharp lines. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once a hardliner against exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll backs limited carve-outs, saying, 'I think that there should be limited exemptions.' State Senator Andrew Gounardes stresses, 'Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible.' Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine pushes for toll credits and taxi exemptions. Advocacy groups warn against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide after federal review. The debate centers on who pays and who gets a pass, while the safety of people outside cars hangs in the balance.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2022-08-26
SUV Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist suffered facial bruises after a collision with a 2019 SUV on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV hit the bike’s center front while traveling west. Driver inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety gear.
According to the police report, a 27-year-old male bicyclist was injured when a 2019 Honda SUV struck him on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV was traveling west and impacted the bike’s center front end. The bicyclist, traveling north, suffered contusions and bruises to his face. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. It also notes some confusion or error on the part of the bicyclist but does not assign blame. The bicyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. The SUV sustained damage to its left rear quarter panel. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving in mixed traffic environments.
E-Scooter Rider Injured in Sedan Collision▸A 24-year-old male e-scooter rider was struck by a westbound sedan on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider suffered knee and lower leg injuries but remained conscious. Police cited driver distraction and rider confusion as contributing factors in the crash.
According to the police report, a 24-year-old male e-scooter driver was injured in a collision with a 2012 Nissan sedan traveling west on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider, wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his knee and lower leg but was conscious at the scene. The sedan struck the e-scooter with its right front bumper. Police identified driver inattention or distraction and pedestrian/bicyclist confusion as contributing factors. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The e-scooter rider was also moving straight ahead when the crash occurred. The report does not assign fault to the rider but highlights errors on both sides.
Two Sedans Collide on Olcott Street, Passenger Injured▸Two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The impact struck the left side doors of one vehicle. A 31-year-old female passenger suffered a back injury and shock. The crash involved failure to yield and driver distraction.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The point of impact was the left side doors of one vehicle and the center front end of the other. A 31-year-old female passenger in the right rear seat was injured, sustaining a back injury and shock. She was not ejected and was secured with a lap belt and harness. The report lists driver errors as failure to yield right-of-way and driver inattention or distraction. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash. The collision caused damage to the left side doors of one sedan and the front center of the other.
Comrie Supports Safety Boosting Penn Station Redevelopment Plan▸State authorities greenlit Governor Hochul’s Penn Station overhaul. The plan promises new towers, apartments, and a $7 billion station revamp. Senator Leroy Comrie backed the initial funding deal but demands federal support for future phases. Critics warn of secrecy and developer giveaways.
On July 27, 2022, the state’s Public Authorities Control Board approved Governor Kathy Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment plan. The project, described as a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity,' includes 18 million square feet of new office towers, 1,800 apartments, a $7 billion station upgrade, and promises of walkable streets and bike lanes. State Senator Leroy Comrie, representing District 14, voted for the initial PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement but pledged not to support future deals without federal funding and approvals. The plan faces criticism from watchdogs and officials like State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office, who called for a delay due to limited financial details. Reinvent Albany slammed the process for lacking transparency and questioned the reliance on developer tax breaks. The redevelopment’s impact on vulnerable road users remains unassessed.
-
State oversight body approves Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment,
amny.com,
Published 2022-07-27
Comrie Opposes Congestion Pricing Exemptions Safety Boosting▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie drew a hard line. No exemptions for Manhattan’s congestion tolls. He stood firm as others called for carve-outs. His stance means every car pays. No relief for drivers. The city’s most vulnerable stay in the crosshairs.
On June 29, 2022, State Senator Leroy Comrie made a public statement on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, covered by nypost.com, centers on calls from Mayor Eric Adams for more exemptions to the Manhattan congestion tolls. Adams argued, 'there should be a level of exemptions... so that we’re not overburdening New Yorkers.' But Comrie rejected this, stating, 'I don’t think there should be any exemptions, and I’m going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' The congestion pricing plan, passed in 2019, already exempts emergency vehicles, vehicles carrying disabled New Yorkers, and low-income residents inside the zone. Comrie’s stance keeps the system strict. No new carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board may still consider more, but Comrie’s position is clear: every driver pays the toll, no exceptions.
-
NYC Mayor Eric Adams calls for ‘exemptions’ to Manhattan congestion fees,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-06-29
A 59-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries in a rear-end crash on the Long Island Expressway. The SUV struck the sedan from behind. The driver was conscious and restrained. The collision caused whiplash and front-end damage to the SUV.
According to the police report, a station wagon/SUV traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a sedan going in the same direction. The 59-year-old male driver of the SUV was injured, sustaining neck trauma and whiplash. The report lists driver inattention/distraction and following too closely as contributing factors. The driver was wearing a lap belt and harness and was not ejected. Both vehicles sustained center-end damage, with the SUV impacting the sedan's rear. No other injuries or pedestrians were involved.
Comrie Warns Against Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions▸Lawmakers spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want tight limits. Others push for taxi exemptions and tunnel credits. Advocates warn: too many carve-outs gut the plan. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, New York officials debated congestion pricing exemptions as the policy neared implementation. The discussion, covered by Streetsblog NYC, highlighted shifting positions. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once opposed to exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll said, "I think that there should be limited exemptions." State Senator Andrew Gounardes added, "Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible." Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine backed toll credits for tunnel users and taxi exemptions. Taxi and for-hire drivers lobbied for relief, citing existing surcharges. Advocacy groups warned against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide on further exemptions after federal review. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-08-26
Comrie Warns Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions Create Major Problems▸Council and state leaders spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want carve-outs. Others warn exemptions gut the plan. Vulnerable road users wait as drivers fight for special treatment. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, the council held a public debate on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, titled 'Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,' drew sharp lines. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once a hardliner against exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll backs limited carve-outs, saying, 'I think that there should be limited exemptions.' State Senator Andrew Gounardes stresses, 'Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible.' Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine pushes for toll credits and taxi exemptions. Advocacy groups warn against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide after federal review. The debate centers on who pays and who gets a pass, while the safety of people outside cars hangs in the balance.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2022-08-26
SUV Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist suffered facial bruises after a collision with a 2019 SUV on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV hit the bike’s center front while traveling west. Driver inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety gear.
According to the police report, a 27-year-old male bicyclist was injured when a 2019 Honda SUV struck him on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV was traveling west and impacted the bike’s center front end. The bicyclist, traveling north, suffered contusions and bruises to his face. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. It also notes some confusion or error on the part of the bicyclist but does not assign blame. The bicyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. The SUV sustained damage to its left rear quarter panel. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving in mixed traffic environments.
E-Scooter Rider Injured in Sedan Collision▸A 24-year-old male e-scooter rider was struck by a westbound sedan on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider suffered knee and lower leg injuries but remained conscious. Police cited driver distraction and rider confusion as contributing factors in the crash.
According to the police report, a 24-year-old male e-scooter driver was injured in a collision with a 2012 Nissan sedan traveling west on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider, wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his knee and lower leg but was conscious at the scene. The sedan struck the e-scooter with its right front bumper. Police identified driver inattention or distraction and pedestrian/bicyclist confusion as contributing factors. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The e-scooter rider was also moving straight ahead when the crash occurred. The report does not assign fault to the rider but highlights errors on both sides.
Two Sedans Collide on Olcott Street, Passenger Injured▸Two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The impact struck the left side doors of one vehicle. A 31-year-old female passenger suffered a back injury and shock. The crash involved failure to yield and driver distraction.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The point of impact was the left side doors of one vehicle and the center front end of the other. A 31-year-old female passenger in the right rear seat was injured, sustaining a back injury and shock. She was not ejected and was secured with a lap belt and harness. The report lists driver errors as failure to yield right-of-way and driver inattention or distraction. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash. The collision caused damage to the left side doors of one sedan and the front center of the other.
Comrie Supports Safety Boosting Penn Station Redevelopment Plan▸State authorities greenlit Governor Hochul’s Penn Station overhaul. The plan promises new towers, apartments, and a $7 billion station revamp. Senator Leroy Comrie backed the initial funding deal but demands federal support for future phases. Critics warn of secrecy and developer giveaways.
On July 27, 2022, the state’s Public Authorities Control Board approved Governor Kathy Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment plan. The project, described as a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity,' includes 18 million square feet of new office towers, 1,800 apartments, a $7 billion station upgrade, and promises of walkable streets and bike lanes. State Senator Leroy Comrie, representing District 14, voted for the initial PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement but pledged not to support future deals without federal funding and approvals. The plan faces criticism from watchdogs and officials like State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office, who called for a delay due to limited financial details. Reinvent Albany slammed the process for lacking transparency and questioned the reliance on developer tax breaks. The redevelopment’s impact on vulnerable road users remains unassessed.
-
State oversight body approves Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment,
amny.com,
Published 2022-07-27
Comrie Opposes Congestion Pricing Exemptions Safety Boosting▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie drew a hard line. No exemptions for Manhattan’s congestion tolls. He stood firm as others called for carve-outs. His stance means every car pays. No relief for drivers. The city’s most vulnerable stay in the crosshairs.
On June 29, 2022, State Senator Leroy Comrie made a public statement on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, covered by nypost.com, centers on calls from Mayor Eric Adams for more exemptions to the Manhattan congestion tolls. Adams argued, 'there should be a level of exemptions... so that we’re not overburdening New Yorkers.' But Comrie rejected this, stating, 'I don’t think there should be any exemptions, and I’m going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' The congestion pricing plan, passed in 2019, already exempts emergency vehicles, vehicles carrying disabled New Yorkers, and low-income residents inside the zone. Comrie’s stance keeps the system strict. No new carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board may still consider more, but Comrie’s position is clear: every driver pays the toll, no exceptions.
-
NYC Mayor Eric Adams calls for ‘exemptions’ to Manhattan congestion fees,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-06-29
Lawmakers spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want tight limits. Others push for taxi exemptions and tunnel credits. Advocates warn: too many carve-outs gut the plan. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, New York officials debated congestion pricing exemptions as the policy neared implementation. The discussion, covered by Streetsblog NYC, highlighted shifting positions. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once opposed to exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll said, "I think that there should be limited exemptions." State Senator Andrew Gounardes added, "Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible." Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine backed toll credits for tunnel users and taxi exemptions. Taxi and for-hire drivers lobbied for relief, citing existing surcharges. Advocacy groups warned against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide on further exemptions after federal review. No direct safety impact for vulnerable road users was assessed.
- Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-08-26
Comrie Warns Broad Congestion Pricing Exemptions Create Major Problems▸Council and state leaders spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want carve-outs. Others warn exemptions gut the plan. Vulnerable road users wait as drivers fight for special treatment. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, the council held a public debate on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, titled 'Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,' drew sharp lines. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once a hardliner against exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll backs limited carve-outs, saying, 'I think that there should be limited exemptions.' State Senator Andrew Gounardes stresses, 'Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible.' Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine pushes for toll credits and taxi exemptions. Advocacy groups warn against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide after federal review. The debate centers on who pays and who gets a pass, while the safety of people outside cars hangs in the balance.
-
Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2022-08-26
SUV Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist suffered facial bruises after a collision with a 2019 SUV on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV hit the bike’s center front while traveling west. Driver inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety gear.
According to the police report, a 27-year-old male bicyclist was injured when a 2019 Honda SUV struck him on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV was traveling west and impacted the bike’s center front end. The bicyclist, traveling north, suffered contusions and bruises to his face. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. It also notes some confusion or error on the part of the bicyclist but does not assign blame. The bicyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. The SUV sustained damage to its left rear quarter panel. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving in mixed traffic environments.
E-Scooter Rider Injured in Sedan Collision▸A 24-year-old male e-scooter rider was struck by a westbound sedan on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider suffered knee and lower leg injuries but remained conscious. Police cited driver distraction and rider confusion as contributing factors in the crash.
According to the police report, a 24-year-old male e-scooter driver was injured in a collision with a 2012 Nissan sedan traveling west on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider, wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his knee and lower leg but was conscious at the scene. The sedan struck the e-scooter with its right front bumper. Police identified driver inattention or distraction and pedestrian/bicyclist confusion as contributing factors. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The e-scooter rider was also moving straight ahead when the crash occurred. The report does not assign fault to the rider but highlights errors on both sides.
Two Sedans Collide on Olcott Street, Passenger Injured▸Two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The impact struck the left side doors of one vehicle. A 31-year-old female passenger suffered a back injury and shock. The crash involved failure to yield and driver distraction.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The point of impact was the left side doors of one vehicle and the center front end of the other. A 31-year-old female passenger in the right rear seat was injured, sustaining a back injury and shock. She was not ejected and was secured with a lap belt and harness. The report lists driver errors as failure to yield right-of-way and driver inattention or distraction. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash. The collision caused damage to the left side doors of one sedan and the front center of the other.
Comrie Supports Safety Boosting Penn Station Redevelopment Plan▸State authorities greenlit Governor Hochul’s Penn Station overhaul. The plan promises new towers, apartments, and a $7 billion station revamp. Senator Leroy Comrie backed the initial funding deal but demands federal support for future phases. Critics warn of secrecy and developer giveaways.
On July 27, 2022, the state’s Public Authorities Control Board approved Governor Kathy Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment plan. The project, described as a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity,' includes 18 million square feet of new office towers, 1,800 apartments, a $7 billion station upgrade, and promises of walkable streets and bike lanes. State Senator Leroy Comrie, representing District 14, voted for the initial PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement but pledged not to support future deals without federal funding and approvals. The plan faces criticism from watchdogs and officials like State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office, who called for a delay due to limited financial details. Reinvent Albany slammed the process for lacking transparency and questioned the reliance on developer tax breaks. The redevelopment’s impact on vulnerable road users remains unassessed.
-
State oversight body approves Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment,
amny.com,
Published 2022-07-27
Comrie Opposes Congestion Pricing Exemptions Safety Boosting▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie drew a hard line. No exemptions for Manhattan’s congestion tolls. He stood firm as others called for carve-outs. His stance means every car pays. No relief for drivers. The city’s most vulnerable stay in the crosshairs.
On June 29, 2022, State Senator Leroy Comrie made a public statement on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, covered by nypost.com, centers on calls from Mayor Eric Adams for more exemptions to the Manhattan congestion tolls. Adams argued, 'there should be a level of exemptions... so that we’re not overburdening New Yorkers.' But Comrie rejected this, stating, 'I don’t think there should be any exemptions, and I’m going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' The congestion pricing plan, passed in 2019, already exempts emergency vehicles, vehicles carrying disabled New Yorkers, and low-income residents inside the zone. Comrie’s stance keeps the system strict. No new carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board may still consider more, but Comrie’s position is clear: every driver pays the toll, no exceptions.
-
NYC Mayor Eric Adams calls for ‘exemptions’ to Manhattan congestion fees,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-06-29
Council and state leaders spar over who gets a break from congestion pricing. Some want carve-outs. Others warn exemptions gut the plan. Vulnerable road users wait as drivers fight for special treatment. The final call lands with the Traffic Mobility Review Board.
On August 26, 2022, the council held a public debate on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, titled 'Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions,' drew sharp lines. State Senator Leroy Comrie, once a hardliner against exemptions, now listens to public input. Assembly Member Robert Carroll backs limited carve-outs, saying, 'I think that there should be limited exemptions.' State Senator Andrew Gounardes stresses, 'Obviously we want them to be as limited as possible.' Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine pushes for toll credits and taxi exemptions. Advocacy groups warn against broad carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board will decide after federal review. The debate centers on who pays and who gets a pass, while the safety of people outside cars hangs in the balance.
- Everyone’s Suddenly Open To Some Congestion Pricing Exemptions, streetsblog.org, Published 2022-08-26
SUV Strikes Bicyclist on Queens Street▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist suffered facial bruises after a collision with a 2019 SUV on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV hit the bike’s center front while traveling west. Driver inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety gear.
According to the police report, a 27-year-old male bicyclist was injured when a 2019 Honda SUV struck him on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV was traveling west and impacted the bike’s center front end. The bicyclist, traveling north, suffered contusions and bruises to his face. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. It also notes some confusion or error on the part of the bicyclist but does not assign blame. The bicyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. The SUV sustained damage to its left rear quarter panel. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving in mixed traffic environments.
E-Scooter Rider Injured in Sedan Collision▸A 24-year-old male e-scooter rider was struck by a westbound sedan on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider suffered knee and lower leg injuries but remained conscious. Police cited driver distraction and rider confusion as contributing factors in the crash.
According to the police report, a 24-year-old male e-scooter driver was injured in a collision with a 2012 Nissan sedan traveling west on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider, wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his knee and lower leg but was conscious at the scene. The sedan struck the e-scooter with its right front bumper. Police identified driver inattention or distraction and pedestrian/bicyclist confusion as contributing factors. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The e-scooter rider was also moving straight ahead when the crash occurred. The report does not assign fault to the rider but highlights errors on both sides.
Two Sedans Collide on Olcott Street, Passenger Injured▸Two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The impact struck the left side doors of one vehicle. A 31-year-old female passenger suffered a back injury and shock. The crash involved failure to yield and driver distraction.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The point of impact was the left side doors of one vehicle and the center front end of the other. A 31-year-old female passenger in the right rear seat was injured, sustaining a back injury and shock. She was not ejected and was secured with a lap belt and harness. The report lists driver errors as failure to yield right-of-way and driver inattention or distraction. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash. The collision caused damage to the left side doors of one sedan and the front center of the other.
Comrie Supports Safety Boosting Penn Station Redevelopment Plan▸State authorities greenlit Governor Hochul’s Penn Station overhaul. The plan promises new towers, apartments, and a $7 billion station revamp. Senator Leroy Comrie backed the initial funding deal but demands federal support for future phases. Critics warn of secrecy and developer giveaways.
On July 27, 2022, the state’s Public Authorities Control Board approved Governor Kathy Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment plan. The project, described as a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity,' includes 18 million square feet of new office towers, 1,800 apartments, a $7 billion station upgrade, and promises of walkable streets and bike lanes. State Senator Leroy Comrie, representing District 14, voted for the initial PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement but pledged not to support future deals without federal funding and approvals. The plan faces criticism from watchdogs and officials like State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office, who called for a delay due to limited financial details. Reinvent Albany slammed the process for lacking transparency and questioned the reliance on developer tax breaks. The redevelopment’s impact on vulnerable road users remains unassessed.
-
State oversight body approves Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment,
amny.com,
Published 2022-07-27
Comrie Opposes Congestion Pricing Exemptions Safety Boosting▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie drew a hard line. No exemptions for Manhattan’s congestion tolls. He stood firm as others called for carve-outs. His stance means every car pays. No relief for drivers. The city’s most vulnerable stay in the crosshairs.
On June 29, 2022, State Senator Leroy Comrie made a public statement on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, covered by nypost.com, centers on calls from Mayor Eric Adams for more exemptions to the Manhattan congestion tolls. Adams argued, 'there should be a level of exemptions... so that we’re not overburdening New Yorkers.' But Comrie rejected this, stating, 'I don’t think there should be any exemptions, and I’m going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' The congestion pricing plan, passed in 2019, already exempts emergency vehicles, vehicles carrying disabled New Yorkers, and low-income residents inside the zone. Comrie’s stance keeps the system strict. No new carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board may still consider more, but Comrie’s position is clear: every driver pays the toll, no exceptions.
-
NYC Mayor Eric Adams calls for ‘exemptions’ to Manhattan congestion fees,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-06-29
A 27-year-old male bicyclist suffered facial bruises after a collision with a 2019 SUV on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV hit the bike’s center front while traveling west. Driver inattention caused the crash. The cyclist was not wearing safety gear.
According to the police report, a 27-year-old male bicyclist was injured when a 2019 Honda SUV struck him on 108 Street in Queens. The SUV was traveling west and impacted the bike’s center front end. The bicyclist, traveling north, suffered contusions and bruises to his face. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors. It also notes some confusion or error on the part of the bicyclist but does not assign blame. The bicyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. The SUV sustained damage to its left rear quarter panel. The crash highlights the dangers posed by distracted driving in mixed traffic environments.
E-Scooter Rider Injured in Sedan Collision▸A 24-year-old male e-scooter rider was struck by a westbound sedan on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider suffered knee and lower leg injuries but remained conscious. Police cited driver distraction and rider confusion as contributing factors in the crash.
According to the police report, a 24-year-old male e-scooter driver was injured in a collision with a 2012 Nissan sedan traveling west on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider, wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his knee and lower leg but was conscious at the scene. The sedan struck the e-scooter with its right front bumper. Police identified driver inattention or distraction and pedestrian/bicyclist confusion as contributing factors. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The e-scooter rider was also moving straight ahead when the crash occurred. The report does not assign fault to the rider but highlights errors on both sides.
Two Sedans Collide on Olcott Street, Passenger Injured▸Two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The impact struck the left side doors of one vehicle. A 31-year-old female passenger suffered a back injury and shock. The crash involved failure to yield and driver distraction.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The point of impact was the left side doors of one vehicle and the center front end of the other. A 31-year-old female passenger in the right rear seat was injured, sustaining a back injury and shock. She was not ejected and was secured with a lap belt and harness. The report lists driver errors as failure to yield right-of-way and driver inattention or distraction. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash. The collision caused damage to the left side doors of one sedan and the front center of the other.
Comrie Supports Safety Boosting Penn Station Redevelopment Plan▸State authorities greenlit Governor Hochul’s Penn Station overhaul. The plan promises new towers, apartments, and a $7 billion station revamp. Senator Leroy Comrie backed the initial funding deal but demands federal support for future phases. Critics warn of secrecy and developer giveaways.
On July 27, 2022, the state’s Public Authorities Control Board approved Governor Kathy Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment plan. The project, described as a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity,' includes 18 million square feet of new office towers, 1,800 apartments, a $7 billion station upgrade, and promises of walkable streets and bike lanes. State Senator Leroy Comrie, representing District 14, voted for the initial PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement but pledged not to support future deals without federal funding and approvals. The plan faces criticism from watchdogs and officials like State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office, who called for a delay due to limited financial details. Reinvent Albany slammed the process for lacking transparency and questioned the reliance on developer tax breaks. The redevelopment’s impact on vulnerable road users remains unassessed.
-
State oversight body approves Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment,
amny.com,
Published 2022-07-27
Comrie Opposes Congestion Pricing Exemptions Safety Boosting▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie drew a hard line. No exemptions for Manhattan’s congestion tolls. He stood firm as others called for carve-outs. His stance means every car pays. No relief for drivers. The city’s most vulnerable stay in the crosshairs.
On June 29, 2022, State Senator Leroy Comrie made a public statement on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, covered by nypost.com, centers on calls from Mayor Eric Adams for more exemptions to the Manhattan congestion tolls. Adams argued, 'there should be a level of exemptions... so that we’re not overburdening New Yorkers.' But Comrie rejected this, stating, 'I don’t think there should be any exemptions, and I’m going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' The congestion pricing plan, passed in 2019, already exempts emergency vehicles, vehicles carrying disabled New Yorkers, and low-income residents inside the zone. Comrie’s stance keeps the system strict. No new carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board may still consider more, but Comrie’s position is clear: every driver pays the toll, no exceptions.
-
NYC Mayor Eric Adams calls for ‘exemptions’ to Manhattan congestion fees,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-06-29
A 24-year-old male e-scooter rider was struck by a westbound sedan on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider suffered knee and lower leg injuries but remained conscious. Police cited driver distraction and rider confusion as contributing factors in the crash.
According to the police report, a 24-year-old male e-scooter driver was injured in a collision with a 2012 Nissan sedan traveling west on Yellowstone Boulevard. The rider, wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his knee and lower leg but was conscious at the scene. The sedan struck the e-scooter with its right front bumper. Police identified driver inattention or distraction and pedestrian/bicyclist confusion as contributing factors. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The e-scooter rider was also moving straight ahead when the crash occurred. The report does not assign fault to the rider but highlights errors on both sides.
Two Sedans Collide on Olcott Street, Passenger Injured▸Two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The impact struck the left side doors of one vehicle. A 31-year-old female passenger suffered a back injury and shock. The crash involved failure to yield and driver distraction.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The point of impact was the left side doors of one vehicle and the center front end of the other. A 31-year-old female passenger in the right rear seat was injured, sustaining a back injury and shock. She was not ejected and was secured with a lap belt and harness. The report lists driver errors as failure to yield right-of-way and driver inattention or distraction. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash. The collision caused damage to the left side doors of one sedan and the front center of the other.
Comrie Supports Safety Boosting Penn Station Redevelopment Plan▸State authorities greenlit Governor Hochul’s Penn Station overhaul. The plan promises new towers, apartments, and a $7 billion station revamp. Senator Leroy Comrie backed the initial funding deal but demands federal support for future phases. Critics warn of secrecy and developer giveaways.
On July 27, 2022, the state’s Public Authorities Control Board approved Governor Kathy Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment plan. The project, described as a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity,' includes 18 million square feet of new office towers, 1,800 apartments, a $7 billion station upgrade, and promises of walkable streets and bike lanes. State Senator Leroy Comrie, representing District 14, voted for the initial PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement but pledged not to support future deals without federal funding and approvals. The plan faces criticism from watchdogs and officials like State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office, who called for a delay due to limited financial details. Reinvent Albany slammed the process for lacking transparency and questioned the reliance on developer tax breaks. The redevelopment’s impact on vulnerable road users remains unassessed.
-
State oversight body approves Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment,
amny.com,
Published 2022-07-27
Comrie Opposes Congestion Pricing Exemptions Safety Boosting▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie drew a hard line. No exemptions for Manhattan’s congestion tolls. He stood firm as others called for carve-outs. His stance means every car pays. No relief for drivers. The city’s most vulnerable stay in the crosshairs.
On June 29, 2022, State Senator Leroy Comrie made a public statement on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, covered by nypost.com, centers on calls from Mayor Eric Adams for more exemptions to the Manhattan congestion tolls. Adams argued, 'there should be a level of exemptions... so that we’re not overburdening New Yorkers.' But Comrie rejected this, stating, 'I don’t think there should be any exemptions, and I’m going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' The congestion pricing plan, passed in 2019, already exempts emergency vehicles, vehicles carrying disabled New Yorkers, and low-income residents inside the zone. Comrie’s stance keeps the system strict. No new carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board may still consider more, but Comrie’s position is clear: every driver pays the toll, no exceptions.
-
NYC Mayor Eric Adams calls for ‘exemptions’ to Manhattan congestion fees,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-06-29
Two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The impact struck the left side doors of one vehicle. A 31-year-old female passenger suffered a back injury and shock. The crash involved failure to yield and driver distraction.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on Olcott Street in Queens. The point of impact was the left side doors of one vehicle and the center front end of the other. A 31-year-old female passenger in the right rear seat was injured, sustaining a back injury and shock. She was not ejected and was secured with a lap belt and harness. The report lists driver errors as failure to yield right-of-way and driver inattention or distraction. Both drivers were licensed and traveling straight ahead at the time of the crash. The collision caused damage to the left side doors of one sedan and the front center of the other.
Comrie Supports Safety Boosting Penn Station Redevelopment Plan▸State authorities greenlit Governor Hochul’s Penn Station overhaul. The plan promises new towers, apartments, and a $7 billion station revamp. Senator Leroy Comrie backed the initial funding deal but demands federal support for future phases. Critics warn of secrecy and developer giveaways.
On July 27, 2022, the state’s Public Authorities Control Board approved Governor Kathy Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment plan. The project, described as a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity,' includes 18 million square feet of new office towers, 1,800 apartments, a $7 billion station upgrade, and promises of walkable streets and bike lanes. State Senator Leroy Comrie, representing District 14, voted for the initial PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement but pledged not to support future deals without federal funding and approvals. The plan faces criticism from watchdogs and officials like State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office, who called for a delay due to limited financial details. Reinvent Albany slammed the process for lacking transparency and questioned the reliance on developer tax breaks. The redevelopment’s impact on vulnerable road users remains unassessed.
-
State oversight body approves Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment,
amny.com,
Published 2022-07-27
Comrie Opposes Congestion Pricing Exemptions Safety Boosting▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie drew a hard line. No exemptions for Manhattan’s congestion tolls. He stood firm as others called for carve-outs. His stance means every car pays. No relief for drivers. The city’s most vulnerable stay in the crosshairs.
On June 29, 2022, State Senator Leroy Comrie made a public statement on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, covered by nypost.com, centers on calls from Mayor Eric Adams for more exemptions to the Manhattan congestion tolls. Adams argued, 'there should be a level of exemptions... so that we’re not overburdening New Yorkers.' But Comrie rejected this, stating, 'I don’t think there should be any exemptions, and I’m going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' The congestion pricing plan, passed in 2019, already exempts emergency vehicles, vehicles carrying disabled New Yorkers, and low-income residents inside the zone. Comrie’s stance keeps the system strict. No new carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board may still consider more, but Comrie’s position is clear: every driver pays the toll, no exceptions.
-
NYC Mayor Eric Adams calls for ‘exemptions’ to Manhattan congestion fees,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-06-29
State authorities greenlit Governor Hochul’s Penn Station overhaul. The plan promises new towers, apartments, and a $7 billion station revamp. Senator Leroy Comrie backed the initial funding deal but demands federal support for future phases. Critics warn of secrecy and developer giveaways.
On July 27, 2022, the state’s Public Authorities Control Board approved Governor Kathy Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment plan. The project, described as a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity,' includes 18 million square feet of new office towers, 1,800 apartments, a $7 billion station upgrade, and promises of walkable streets and bike lanes. State Senator Leroy Comrie, representing District 14, voted for the initial PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement but pledged not to support future deals without federal funding and approvals. The plan faces criticism from watchdogs and officials like State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office, who called for a delay due to limited financial details. Reinvent Albany slammed the process for lacking transparency and questioned the reliance on developer tax breaks. The redevelopment’s impact on vulnerable road users remains unassessed.
- State oversight body approves Hochul’s Penn Station redevelopment, amny.com, Published 2022-07-27
Comrie Opposes Congestion Pricing Exemptions Safety Boosting▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie drew a hard line. No exemptions for Manhattan’s congestion tolls. He stood firm as others called for carve-outs. His stance means every car pays. No relief for drivers. The city’s most vulnerable stay in the crosshairs.
On June 29, 2022, State Senator Leroy Comrie made a public statement on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, covered by nypost.com, centers on calls from Mayor Eric Adams for more exemptions to the Manhattan congestion tolls. Adams argued, 'there should be a level of exemptions... so that we’re not overburdening New Yorkers.' But Comrie rejected this, stating, 'I don’t think there should be any exemptions, and I’m going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' The congestion pricing plan, passed in 2019, already exempts emergency vehicles, vehicles carrying disabled New Yorkers, and low-income residents inside the zone. Comrie’s stance keeps the system strict. No new carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board may still consider more, but Comrie’s position is clear: every driver pays the toll, no exceptions.
-
NYC Mayor Eric Adams calls for ‘exemptions’ to Manhattan congestion fees,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-06-29
State Sen. Leroy Comrie drew a hard line. No exemptions for Manhattan’s congestion tolls. He stood firm as others called for carve-outs. His stance means every car pays. No relief for drivers. The city’s most vulnerable stay in the crosshairs.
On June 29, 2022, State Senator Leroy Comrie made a public statement on congestion pricing exemptions. The matter, covered by nypost.com, centers on calls from Mayor Eric Adams for more exemptions to the Manhattan congestion tolls. Adams argued, 'there should be a level of exemptions... so that we’re not overburdening New Yorkers.' But Comrie rejected this, stating, 'I don’t think there should be any exemptions, and I’m going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' The congestion pricing plan, passed in 2019, already exempts emergency vehicles, vehicles carrying disabled New Yorkers, and low-income residents inside the zone. Comrie’s stance keeps the system strict. No new carve-outs. The Traffic Mobility Review Board may still consider more, but Comrie’s position is clear: every driver pays the toll, no exceptions.
- NYC Mayor Eric Adams calls for ‘exemptions’ to Manhattan congestion fees, nypost.com, Published 2022-06-29