Who’s Injuring and Killing Pedestrians in Laurelton?

No Deaths Yet—But Laurelton Bleeds Every Day
Laurelton: Jan 1, 2022 - Jul 17, 2025
The Toll in Laurelton: No Deaths, But the Hurt Goes On
No one has died on Laurelton’s streets this year. But the numbers do not let you breathe easy. In the past twelve months, there have been 204 crashes. 121 people were hurt. Not one was marked as a serious injury, but pain lingers. Children, elders, workers—no one is spared. In the last year, 11 people under 18 were injured in crashes here. The violence is slow, steady, and always waiting.
The Machines That Hit Us
Cars and SUVs do most of the harm. In the last three years, they caused the only pedestrian death in Laurelton. They left 37 people with minor injuries and 10 with moderate injuries. Bikes caused one minor injury. Trucks and buses did not kill or seriously injure anyone, but the threat is always there. The street is not safe for anyone who walks or rides.
Leadership: Promises, Pressure, and the Need for More
Council Member Selvena Brooks-Powers has called out the city’s failures. “DOT gives us their word every hearing and we are not getting results,” she said at a public hearing, demanding real progress on street safety. She co-sponsored a bill to ban parking near crosswalks and clear sightlines for people on foot. But the pace is slow. Promises pile up. Streets stay dangerous.
State Senator Leroy Comrie voted to extend school speed zones and to require speed limiters for repeat dangerous drivers. These are steps, but the carnage continues. One crash, one injury, is too many.
The Call: Don’t Wait for Blood on the Asphalt
This is not fate. This is policy. Every day leaders delay, someone else gets hurt. Call your council member. Demand daylighting at every corner. Demand a 20 mph speed limit. Demand real protection for people who walk and bike.
Do not wait for the next siren. Act now.
Citations
▸ Citations
- MTA Bus Slams Curb, Injures Seven, CBS New York, Published 2025-07-11
- Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4824056 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-07-17
- Council Transportation Chair Tells DOT That She’s Sick of the Streets Plan Excuses, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2025-01-22
- File Int 1138-2024, NYC Council – Legistar, Published 2024-12-05
- File S 4045, Open States, Published 2025-06-11
- E-Bike Rider Killed In Police Chase, New York Post, Published 2025-07-13
- MTA Bus Slams Curb, Injures Seven, CBS New York, Published 2025-07-11
- Eight Injured As MTA Bus Hits Pole, CBS New York, Published 2025-07-11
- Bus Jumps Curb, Eight Injured In Flushing, ABC7, Published 2025-07-11
- Chain-Reaction Crash Kills Two On Belt Parkway, amny, Published 2025-07-10
- A ‘Boulevard of Life’ transformation: DOT announces completion of Queens Boulevard Redesign, amny.com, Published 2024-11-12
- Comprehensive NYC Greenway plan for bike, pedestrian infrastructure passes City Council, amny.com, Published 2022-10-27
- Can New York City Fix Its Deadly ‘Conduit’ to JFK Airport?, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2025-05-13
- As NYPD’s Criminal Crackdown on Cyclists Expands, It Grows More Absurd: Victims, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2025-05-06
- Meet the Council’s Transportation Committee Chair: Selvena Brooks-Powers, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-01-20
Other Representatives

District 29
232-06A Merrick Blvd., Springfield Gardens, NY 11413
Room 717, Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY 12248

District 31
1931 Mott Avenue, Suite 410, Far Rockaway, NY 11691
718-471-7014
250 Broadway, Suite 1865, New York, NY 10007
212-788-7216

District 14
113-43 Farmers Blvd., St. Albans, NY 11412
Room 913, Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY 12247
▸ Other Geographies
Laurelton Laurelton sits in Queens, Precinct 116, District 31, AD 29, SD 14, Queens CB13.
▸ See also
Traffic Safety Timeline for Laurelton
Brooks-Powers Prioritizes MTA Study for QueensLink Safety Boost▸Council members push the MTA to study reviving the Rockaway Beach rail line. The move aims to connect southeast Queens, cut car trips, and open new routes. The bill signals urgency but lacks binding power. Debate continues over transit versus parkland.
On November 28, 2022, Council Members Joann Ariola and Selvena Brooks-Powers introduced a City Council resolution urging the MTA to conduct an environmental impact study for the QueensLink rail reactivation. The bill, non-binding and currently under committee review, seeks to revive 3.5 miles of the former Rockaway Beach Branch, extending the M train from Rego Park to the Rockaways. The matter title calls for 'a deeper study of the QueensLink proposal to reactivate an old rail line.' Ariola and Brooks-Powers, both representing southeastern Queens, argue the project would benefit communities with poor subway access and reduce car dependency. Ariola stated, 'I think it’s necessary and I think that it would really benefit the communities.' Brooks-Powers emphasized the resolution as a priority for the Transportation Committee. The push comes as Mayor Adams advances the QueensWay park plan, raising concerns among transit advocates. The MTA says a new study is unnecessary, but supporters insist a thorough review is needed before converting the corridor to parkland.
-
Queens Pols Revive Push for MTA to Study QueensLink, As QueensWay Linear Park Surges,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-28
Left Turn Sedan Crash Injures Driver Queens▸Two sedans collided on Springfield Boulevard near East Gate Plaza. One driver turned left and struck a southbound car. The turning driver, a woman, suffered chest abrasions. Failure to yield listed as cause.
According to the police report, a 28-year-old female driver was injured when her sedan, making a left turn eastbound on Springfield Boulevard, collided with a southbound sedan near East Gate Plaza in Queens. The impact struck the center front end of the turning vehicle and the right front bumper of the other. The injured driver suffered chest abrasions and was conscious at the scene. The report lists "Failure to Yield Right-of-Way" as a contributing factor. Both drivers were licensed and operating NY-registered vehicles. The injured driver was restrained by a lap belt and harness. No ejections occurred.
Brooks-Powers Supports Safety-Boosting Crackdown on Obscured Plates▸Drivers hide plates with leaves and branches. They dodge cameras. They dodge tolls. The city loses millions. Council cracks down. Brooks-Powers calls it a safety threat. New laws ban cover sales. DOT must now report evaders. Streets stay dangerous.
On November 26, 2022, the New York City Council took legislative action to combat license plate obscuring, a tactic used by drivers to evade tolls and traffic cameras. The matter, described as 'banning the sale of toll-beating covers and requiring DOT to report cars evading red lights and speed cameras with unreadable license plates,' passed through the transportation and infrastructure committee. Council Member Selvena N. Brooks-Powers, chair of the committee and sponsor, stated, 'It’s a safety issue, it’s an issue in terms of [city] revenue, it’s an issue in terms of ensuring we have safe streets and holding people accountable.' The city has lost $19 million this year due to unreadable plates. The new laws aim to close loopholes and restore accountability, but the risk to pedestrians and cyclists from untraceable drivers remains high.
-
Unbe-leaf-able: Scofflaws dodge tolls and traffic cameras with foliage,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-26
SUV Backing Strikes Pedestrian on Springfield Blvd▸A 47-year-old man was injured when an SUV backing south on Springfield Boulevard hit him. The pedestrian was not in the roadway. The impact caused knee and lower leg injuries. The driver backed unsafely, according to police.
According to the police report, a 2019 Honda SUV was backing south on Springfield Boulevard in Queens when it struck a 47-year-old male pedestrian. The pedestrian was not in the roadway at the time of the crash but suffered injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists "Backing Unsafely" as a contributing factor to the collision. The point of impact was the center back end of the vehicle. The pedestrian was left in shock with visible injuries but no visible complaints. No other driver errors or victim factors were noted in the report.
Brooks-Powers Opposes Permanent Busways Supports Shorter Hours▸City made Jamaica and Archer Avenue busways permanent. Jamaica Avenue hours slashed. Archer stays 24/7. Northern Boulevard bus lanes started after months of delay. Local politicians fought restrictions. Bus riders still face slow trips. City bows to business pressure.
On November 15, 2022, the Adams administration made busways on Jamaica and Archer avenues permanent after a one-year pilot. The Department of Transportation cut Jamaica Avenue’s busway hours from 24/7 to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, while Archer Avenue remains round-the-clock. The Northern Boulevard bus lane project, stalled for months after Council Member Francisco Moya lobbied against it, finally began installation. Council Members Nantasha Williams and Selvena Brooks-Powers opposed the busways, calling for their elimination and citing business concerns. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and other local officials pushed for even shorter hours. DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez defended the busways, saying, 'strong bus infrastructure is a necessity.' Despite opposition, the city kept some busway hours intact, but caved to business interests, reducing protection for bus riders and vulnerable road users.
-
City Makes Jamaica Busways Permanent But With Shorter Hours; Begins Northern Blvd. Bus Lanes,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-15
Comrie Supports Busway Hour Reductions Against Permanent Busways▸City made Jamaica and Archer Avenue busways permanent. Jamaica Avenue hours slashed. Archer stays 24/7. Northern Boulevard bus lanes started after months of delay. Local politicians fought restrictions. Bus riders still face slow trips. City bows to business pressure.
On November 15, 2022, the Adams administration made busways on Jamaica and Archer avenues permanent after a one-year pilot. The Department of Transportation cut Jamaica Avenue’s busway hours from 24/7 to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, while Archer Avenue remains round-the-clock. The Northern Boulevard bus lane project, stalled for months after Council Member Francisco Moya lobbied against it, finally began installation. Council Members Nantasha Williams and Selvena Brooks-Powers opposed the busways, calling for their elimination and citing business concerns. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and other local officials pushed for even shorter hours. DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez defended the busways, saying, 'strong bus infrastructure is a necessity.' Despite opposition, the city kept some busway hours intact, but caved to business interests, reducing protection for bus riders and vulnerable road users.
-
City Makes Jamaica Busways Permanent But With Shorter Hours; Begins Northern Blvd. Bus Lanes,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-15
Richards Supports Shortened Jamaica Busway Hours▸City made Jamaica and Archer Avenue busways permanent. Jamaica Avenue hours slashed. Archer stays 24/7. Northern Boulevard bus lanes started after months of delay. Local politicians fought restrictions. Bus riders still face slow trips. City bows to business pressure.
On November 15, 2022, the Adams administration made busways on Jamaica and Archer avenues permanent after a one-year pilot. The Department of Transportation cut Jamaica Avenue’s busway hours from 24/7 to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, while Archer Avenue remains round-the-clock. The Northern Boulevard bus lane project, stalled for months after Council Member Francisco Moya lobbied against it, finally began installation. Council Members Nantasha Williams and Selvena Brooks-Powers opposed the busways, calling for their elimination and citing business concerns. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and other local officials pushed for even shorter hours. DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez defended the busways, saying, 'strong bus infrastructure is a necessity.' Despite opposition, the city kept some busway hours intact, but caved to business interests, reducing protection for bus riders and vulnerable road users.
-
City Makes Jamaica Busways Permanent But With Shorter Hours; Begins Northern Blvd. Bus Lanes,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-15
Comrie Mentioned in Debate Over Misguided Speed Hump Delays▸Councilmember Rita Joseph blasted DOT for years-long delays on speed hump installations in Flatbush. Twelve sites requested, one approved, none built. Meanwhile, crashes injure cyclists and pedestrians daily. Joseph calls the delay unacceptable. Streets stay dangerous. DOT offers no timeline.
On November 11, 2022, Councilmember Rita Joseph (District 40) issued a public letter to the Department of Transportation, demanding answers for the slow pace of speed hump installations. The matter, titled "#StuckAtDOT: It Takes Years (and Years) to Get a Speed Hump in this City," details Joseph’s frustration: 'In response to a speed hump request, my office was informed by the DOT that...studies are finalized after two years.' Joseph listed twelve locations needing speed humps; only one was approved, none installed. Eight were denied, several remain under review. Her district saw 1,173 crashes this year, injuring 87 cyclists and 141 pedestrians. Joseph, who lost students to traffic violence, calls the delay 'unacceptable.' DOT says it is reviewing her letter. Advocates demand faster action, saying, 'It should never take two years to implement these straight-forward safety measures.'
-
#StuckAtDOT: It Takes Years (and Years) to Get a Speed Hump in this City,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2022-11-11
Richards Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Councilman Robert Holden slammed congestion pricing in a New York Post editorial. He called the plan a disaster for outer-borough residents. Holden argued it would barely cut Manhattan traffic, worsen Bronx air, and punish working families. The editorial dismissed equity concerns.
On November 8, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) was mentioned in a New York Post editorial opposing congestion pricing. The editorial, titled 'Hey, Donovan Richards: It’s actually way more racist to FAVOR congestion pricing,' criticized Queens Borough President Donovan Richards for labeling Holden’s opposition as racist. The piece argued, 'congestion pricing would be a disaster,' claiming it would harm diverse outer-borough residents and worsen air quality in The Bronx by diverting diesel trucks. The editorial cited MTA studies predicting only a 3.1% reduction in Manhattan traffic and framed the plan as an unfair tax on commerce. Holden’s stance reflects ongoing resistance to congestion pricing in the council, with equity and environmental impacts at the center of the debate. No formal council vote or bill was referenced in this editorial.
-
Hey, Donovan Richards: It’s actually way more racist to FAVOR congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-08
Brooks-Powers Collaborates on Safety-Boosting Resident Traffic Enforcement Bill▸Council Member Restler’s bill lets New Yorkers ticket drivers who block bike lanes, bus lanes, sidewalks, or hydrants near schools. Twenty-four council members back it. The bill targets driver impunity and NYPD inaction. Advocates say it protects cyclists and pedestrians.
Bill number not specified. Sponsored by Council Member Lincoln Restler, the bill is advancing in the City Council with 24 out of 51 members signed on as of November 7, 2022. It sits with the Transportation Committee, chaired by Selvena Brooks-Powers, who is working with Restler to streamline the complaint process. The bill’s summary: it allows residents to ticket drivers who block bike lanes, bus lanes, sidewalks, crosswalks, or fire hydrants within 1,320 feet of a school, creating a $175 fine and a civilian complaint protocol. Restler and Brooks-Powers are refining the process to avoid the pitfalls of the city’s anti-idling law, which discourages participation. The NYPD and DOT oppose the bill, citing concerns about neighbor conflict. Advocates support it, highlighting NYPD’s failure to protect vulnerable road users. The bill is seen as a major improvement over the ineffective 311 system.
-
UPDATE: Restler Bill to Allow Residents to Ticket Dangerous Drivers Gaining Steam,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-07
Richards Supports Rezoning Despite Safety Concerns and Opposition▸Queens Community Board 2 voted to block a new SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard. Local leaders demand housing, not more cars. They cite danger, pollution, and reckless driving. Council Member Julie Won and Assembly Member González-Rojas back the board. The fight moves to City Planning.
On November 7, 2022, Queens Community Board 2 passed a resolution rejecting a rezoning application for a Lincoln SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard, Woodside. The matter, described as a call for a moratorium on car-related development, pits housing needs against car infrastructure. Council Member Julie Won supported the board, stating, "It should be a neighborhood rezoning instead of spot rezoning... we need to make it safer and more liveable." Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas also opposed the dealership, urging the space be used for affordable housing and highlighting dangerous driving by existing dealerships. Despite Borough President Donovan Richards' support for the rezoning, citing cycling and EV promotion, the application faces strong local resistance. The City Planning Commission now reviews the case, with a City Council vote possible. The board and electeds argue more cars mean more risk for pedestrians and cyclists on a deadly stretch.
-
Woodside Wants Housing, But It’s Likely to Get More SUVs,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-07
Jeep and Nissan Run Light, Crash Hard in Queens▸Two cars tore through a red light on Carson Street. Metal slammed metal. The Nissan driver’s head was crushed. Four others hurt. Sirens cut the dawn. The street lay still, marked by reckless speed and disregard.
A Jeep and a Nissan collided at Carson Street and 219th in Queens. Both vehicles ran the light, according to the police report: 'A Jeep slammed into a Nissan’s front. Both ran the light.' The Nissan’s driver, a 30-year-old man, suffered severe head injuries and was found unconscious. Four other occupants, aged 20 to 24, were also injured, with complaints of back pain and other trauma. The police report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors for both drivers. The Nissan driver wore no seatbelt, but this detail follows the primary driver errors. The crash left the intersection scarred, a stark result of ignoring traffic signals and speeding.
Richards Defends Congestion Pricing Amid Queens Political Spat▸Councilman Holden and Borough President Richards fought online over congestion pricing. Holden called it a tax on workers. Richards fired back, sparking accusations of racism and party betrayal. The dispute exposed deep rifts over street safety and car dominance.
On November 5, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards clashed publicly over the MTA's congestion pricing plan. The dispute, reported by nypost.com, began with Holden calling the plan 'another tax on hardworking New Yorkers' and demanding a referendum. Richards retweeted Holden, suggesting an 'actual Democrat' should replace him, and responded to a supporter with 'Yeah white supremacy.' The exchange escalated, drawing condemnation from other officials. The matter centered on the policy to charge motorists entering Manhattan below 60th Street. Holden joined a bipartisan press conference urging Governor Hochul to let voters decide. The spat revealed sharp divides over congestion pricing, with Holden opposing the plan and Richards defending it. No formal council bill or vote was involved, but the fight highlighted the political and racial tensions surrounding street safety and car use in New York City.
-
Twitter spat between Queens Dems Donovan Richards and Robert Holden turns racial,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-05
Brooks-Powers Supports Safety-Boosting NYC Greenway Master Plan▸City Council passed a bill to map and expand greenways for cyclists and walkers. The plan targets neglected neighborhoods. It demands real infrastructure, not just paint. Advocates say it will open safe routes, cut danger, and connect the city.
On October 27, 2022, the City Council passed a bill requiring a comprehensive master plan for New York City's greenways. The legislation, championed by Council Member Carlina Rivera and supported by Transportation Committee Chair Selvena N. Brooks-Powers (District 31), mandates the city to study, map, and expand greenways—'highways for cyclists and pedestrians, separated from motor vehicle traffic.' The bill focuses on low-income and underserved neighborhoods, with a final plan due by December 2024 and updates every five years. Rivera said, 'All of us are here today because we believe in a future where New Yorkers of all backgrounds... can safely access active transportation.' Brooks-Powers called it 'a real opportunity... to make a profound impact.' Advocates like Jon Orcutt of Bike New York praised the move, urging the city to build 'real infrastructure for cycling.' The bill passed nearly unanimously, signaling strong council support for safer, more equitable streets.
-
Comprehensive NYC Greenway plan for bike, pedestrian infrastructure passes City Council,
amny.com,
Published 2022-10-27
Two Sedans Collide on 228 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 228 Street. Impact hit left side doors of one car and front center of the other. A 9-year-old passenger suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Both drivers were licensed women going straight. Failure to yield caused the crash.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 228 Street. One vehicle was struck on the left side doors, while the other was damaged at the center front end. A 9-year-old male passenger in the right rear seat of one sedan was injured, sustaining neck injuries and whiplash. The passenger was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. Both drivers were licensed women traveling straight ahead. The report lists 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the contributing factor. No other contributing factors were specified. The crash caused significant damage to both vehicles and resulted in injury to the child passenger.
2Sedans Crash After Traffic Control Ignored▸Two sedans collided at 229 Street and 138 Avenue. Both drivers disregarded traffic control. A female driver and her passenger suffered head and hip injuries. Metal twisted. Both victims stayed conscious.
According to the police report, two sedans crashed at the intersection of 229 Street and 138 Avenue in Queens. Both vehicles went straight ahead. Both drivers disregarded traffic control, leading to the collision. The Honda struck the Toyota's front end. The female driver of the Toyota suffered bruising to her hip and upper leg. Her female passenger sustained a head injury. Both were conscious and not ejected. The report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the primary contributing factor. No other factors or victim errors were noted.
Distracted Driver Rear-Ends Stopped Sedan in Queens▸A Honda slammed into a stopped BMW on 228 Street. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, suffered back bruises. Police blamed driver inattention. Metal crumpled. One driver hurt. Both cars damaged.
According to the police report, a rear-end crash happened on 228 Street in Queens. A Honda sedan struck a stopped BMW sedan from behind. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, was injured with back contusions. She was conscious at the scene. Police listed 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the cause. The BMW was stopped in traffic. No other contributing factors were noted. The Honda's right front bumper and the BMW's right rear bumper were damaged in the impact.
Brooks-Powers Supports DOT Accountability and Data Transparency▸Council Member Gale Brewer challenges DOT’s street safety boasts. She questions claims of 750 redesigned intersections. Public data shows far less. Most fixes are signal timing, not real protection. Advocates want proof, not promises. Road deaths remain high. Brewer vows investigation.
On October 5, 2022, Council Member Gale Brewer, chair of the Council's oversight committee, announced plans to investigate the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) street safety claims. Brewer questioned DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez’s assertion that 750 of 1,000 intersections were redesigned, citing public data showing fewer than 400. Brewer said, “I love the idea of using her committee's investigatory power to explore whether the Adams administration has indeed redesigned 750 of the promised 1,000 intersections... or whether it done fewer than that, as the agency's own public data shows.” She confirmed her intent to use committee investigators and hold an oversight hearing. The matter, titled “City Council oversight inquiry into DOT street safety implementation and data transparency,” highlights DOT’s lack of documentation and reliance on signal retiming over physical improvements. Advocates and Brewer demand full transparency and real progress. Road deaths remain high, and the city lags on legal mandates for bus and bike lanes.
-
CM Brewer: ‘I’ll Hold DOT Accountable on Promises and Data’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-10-05
2Queens Sedans Collide on 225 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 225 Street in Queens. One driver made a left turn into the path of another going straight. Both front passengers suffered injuries and shock. Both drivers distracted. Impact hit right side doors and front bumpers.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 225 Street in Queens. One vehicle was making a left turn while the other was traveling straight. The collision impacted the right side doors of the turning vehicle and the front bumper of the other. Two female front-seat passengers were injured, suffering hip and upper leg injuries and whole-body trauma, both experiencing shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors for both drivers. No pedestrians were involved. The crash caused significant vehicle damage and injuries to occupants, highlighting the dangers of distracted driving.
Richards Urges Balancing Transit Equity and QueensWay Park▸Mayor Adams broke ground on QueensWay, a $35 million park project on old rail tracks. Supporters cheer new green space for 330,000 locals. Critics warn it kills hopes for restored train service. The fight pits open space against transit justice in Queens.
On September 16, 2022, Mayor Adams announced the start of the QueensWay project, a $35 million plan to turn a defunct LIRR branch in Queens into a linear park. The first phase includes $5 million for environmental review and $30 million for the Metropolitan Hub. The matter summary states: 'converting a defunct LIRR branch into a Highline-style park in Queens.' Council Member Lynn Schulman supports the park, calling it 'shovel-ready.' Borough President Donovan Richards and Assembly Members Jenifer Rajkumar and David Weprin back both the park and the QueensLink transit proposal. Richards said, 'We need to do both when it comes to making sure that we can enhance our public transportation and also ensuring that our communities have access to open space.' Transit advocates warn the park blocks future rail service, cutting off faster commutes and cleaner air for southern Queens. The MTA previously cited high costs for transit reactivation. The debate continues over whether the right-of-way should serve parks, transit, or both.
-
Mayor Launches First Phase of QueensWay Linear Park — But What About Transit?,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-09-16
Council members push the MTA to study reviving the Rockaway Beach rail line. The move aims to connect southeast Queens, cut car trips, and open new routes. The bill signals urgency but lacks binding power. Debate continues over transit versus parkland.
On November 28, 2022, Council Members Joann Ariola and Selvena Brooks-Powers introduced a City Council resolution urging the MTA to conduct an environmental impact study for the QueensLink rail reactivation. The bill, non-binding and currently under committee review, seeks to revive 3.5 miles of the former Rockaway Beach Branch, extending the M train from Rego Park to the Rockaways. The matter title calls for 'a deeper study of the QueensLink proposal to reactivate an old rail line.' Ariola and Brooks-Powers, both representing southeastern Queens, argue the project would benefit communities with poor subway access and reduce car dependency. Ariola stated, 'I think it’s necessary and I think that it would really benefit the communities.' Brooks-Powers emphasized the resolution as a priority for the Transportation Committee. The push comes as Mayor Adams advances the QueensWay park plan, raising concerns among transit advocates. The MTA says a new study is unnecessary, but supporters insist a thorough review is needed before converting the corridor to parkland.
- Queens Pols Revive Push for MTA to Study QueensLink, As QueensWay Linear Park Surges, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-11-28
Left Turn Sedan Crash Injures Driver Queens▸Two sedans collided on Springfield Boulevard near East Gate Plaza. One driver turned left and struck a southbound car. The turning driver, a woman, suffered chest abrasions. Failure to yield listed as cause.
According to the police report, a 28-year-old female driver was injured when her sedan, making a left turn eastbound on Springfield Boulevard, collided with a southbound sedan near East Gate Plaza in Queens. The impact struck the center front end of the turning vehicle and the right front bumper of the other. The injured driver suffered chest abrasions and was conscious at the scene. The report lists "Failure to Yield Right-of-Way" as a contributing factor. Both drivers were licensed and operating NY-registered vehicles. The injured driver was restrained by a lap belt and harness. No ejections occurred.
Brooks-Powers Supports Safety-Boosting Crackdown on Obscured Plates▸Drivers hide plates with leaves and branches. They dodge cameras. They dodge tolls. The city loses millions. Council cracks down. Brooks-Powers calls it a safety threat. New laws ban cover sales. DOT must now report evaders. Streets stay dangerous.
On November 26, 2022, the New York City Council took legislative action to combat license plate obscuring, a tactic used by drivers to evade tolls and traffic cameras. The matter, described as 'banning the sale of toll-beating covers and requiring DOT to report cars evading red lights and speed cameras with unreadable license plates,' passed through the transportation and infrastructure committee. Council Member Selvena N. Brooks-Powers, chair of the committee and sponsor, stated, 'It’s a safety issue, it’s an issue in terms of [city] revenue, it’s an issue in terms of ensuring we have safe streets and holding people accountable.' The city has lost $19 million this year due to unreadable plates. The new laws aim to close loopholes and restore accountability, but the risk to pedestrians and cyclists from untraceable drivers remains high.
-
Unbe-leaf-able: Scofflaws dodge tolls and traffic cameras with foliage,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-26
SUV Backing Strikes Pedestrian on Springfield Blvd▸A 47-year-old man was injured when an SUV backing south on Springfield Boulevard hit him. The pedestrian was not in the roadway. The impact caused knee and lower leg injuries. The driver backed unsafely, according to police.
According to the police report, a 2019 Honda SUV was backing south on Springfield Boulevard in Queens when it struck a 47-year-old male pedestrian. The pedestrian was not in the roadway at the time of the crash but suffered injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists "Backing Unsafely" as a contributing factor to the collision. The point of impact was the center back end of the vehicle. The pedestrian was left in shock with visible injuries but no visible complaints. No other driver errors or victim factors were noted in the report.
Brooks-Powers Opposes Permanent Busways Supports Shorter Hours▸City made Jamaica and Archer Avenue busways permanent. Jamaica Avenue hours slashed. Archer stays 24/7. Northern Boulevard bus lanes started after months of delay. Local politicians fought restrictions. Bus riders still face slow trips. City bows to business pressure.
On November 15, 2022, the Adams administration made busways on Jamaica and Archer avenues permanent after a one-year pilot. The Department of Transportation cut Jamaica Avenue’s busway hours from 24/7 to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, while Archer Avenue remains round-the-clock. The Northern Boulevard bus lane project, stalled for months after Council Member Francisco Moya lobbied against it, finally began installation. Council Members Nantasha Williams and Selvena Brooks-Powers opposed the busways, calling for their elimination and citing business concerns. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and other local officials pushed for even shorter hours. DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez defended the busways, saying, 'strong bus infrastructure is a necessity.' Despite opposition, the city kept some busway hours intact, but caved to business interests, reducing protection for bus riders and vulnerable road users.
-
City Makes Jamaica Busways Permanent But With Shorter Hours; Begins Northern Blvd. Bus Lanes,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-15
Comrie Supports Busway Hour Reductions Against Permanent Busways▸City made Jamaica and Archer Avenue busways permanent. Jamaica Avenue hours slashed. Archer stays 24/7. Northern Boulevard bus lanes started after months of delay. Local politicians fought restrictions. Bus riders still face slow trips. City bows to business pressure.
On November 15, 2022, the Adams administration made busways on Jamaica and Archer avenues permanent after a one-year pilot. The Department of Transportation cut Jamaica Avenue’s busway hours from 24/7 to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, while Archer Avenue remains round-the-clock. The Northern Boulevard bus lane project, stalled for months after Council Member Francisco Moya lobbied against it, finally began installation. Council Members Nantasha Williams and Selvena Brooks-Powers opposed the busways, calling for their elimination and citing business concerns. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and other local officials pushed for even shorter hours. DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez defended the busways, saying, 'strong bus infrastructure is a necessity.' Despite opposition, the city kept some busway hours intact, but caved to business interests, reducing protection for bus riders and vulnerable road users.
-
City Makes Jamaica Busways Permanent But With Shorter Hours; Begins Northern Blvd. Bus Lanes,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-15
Richards Supports Shortened Jamaica Busway Hours▸City made Jamaica and Archer Avenue busways permanent. Jamaica Avenue hours slashed. Archer stays 24/7. Northern Boulevard bus lanes started after months of delay. Local politicians fought restrictions. Bus riders still face slow trips. City bows to business pressure.
On November 15, 2022, the Adams administration made busways on Jamaica and Archer avenues permanent after a one-year pilot. The Department of Transportation cut Jamaica Avenue’s busway hours from 24/7 to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, while Archer Avenue remains round-the-clock. The Northern Boulevard bus lane project, stalled for months after Council Member Francisco Moya lobbied against it, finally began installation. Council Members Nantasha Williams and Selvena Brooks-Powers opposed the busways, calling for their elimination and citing business concerns. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and other local officials pushed for even shorter hours. DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez defended the busways, saying, 'strong bus infrastructure is a necessity.' Despite opposition, the city kept some busway hours intact, but caved to business interests, reducing protection for bus riders and vulnerable road users.
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City Makes Jamaica Busways Permanent But With Shorter Hours; Begins Northern Blvd. Bus Lanes,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-15
Comrie Mentioned in Debate Over Misguided Speed Hump Delays▸Councilmember Rita Joseph blasted DOT for years-long delays on speed hump installations in Flatbush. Twelve sites requested, one approved, none built. Meanwhile, crashes injure cyclists and pedestrians daily. Joseph calls the delay unacceptable. Streets stay dangerous. DOT offers no timeline.
On November 11, 2022, Councilmember Rita Joseph (District 40) issued a public letter to the Department of Transportation, demanding answers for the slow pace of speed hump installations. The matter, titled "#StuckAtDOT: It Takes Years (and Years) to Get a Speed Hump in this City," details Joseph’s frustration: 'In response to a speed hump request, my office was informed by the DOT that...studies are finalized after two years.' Joseph listed twelve locations needing speed humps; only one was approved, none installed. Eight were denied, several remain under review. Her district saw 1,173 crashes this year, injuring 87 cyclists and 141 pedestrians. Joseph, who lost students to traffic violence, calls the delay 'unacceptable.' DOT says it is reviewing her letter. Advocates demand faster action, saying, 'It should never take two years to implement these straight-forward safety measures.'
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#StuckAtDOT: It Takes Years (and Years) to Get a Speed Hump in this City,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2022-11-11
Richards Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Councilman Robert Holden slammed congestion pricing in a New York Post editorial. He called the plan a disaster for outer-borough residents. Holden argued it would barely cut Manhattan traffic, worsen Bronx air, and punish working families. The editorial dismissed equity concerns.
On November 8, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) was mentioned in a New York Post editorial opposing congestion pricing. The editorial, titled 'Hey, Donovan Richards: It’s actually way more racist to FAVOR congestion pricing,' criticized Queens Borough President Donovan Richards for labeling Holden’s opposition as racist. The piece argued, 'congestion pricing would be a disaster,' claiming it would harm diverse outer-borough residents and worsen air quality in The Bronx by diverting diesel trucks. The editorial cited MTA studies predicting only a 3.1% reduction in Manhattan traffic and framed the plan as an unfair tax on commerce. Holden’s stance reflects ongoing resistance to congestion pricing in the council, with equity and environmental impacts at the center of the debate. No formal council vote or bill was referenced in this editorial.
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Hey, Donovan Richards: It’s actually way more racist to FAVOR congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-08
Brooks-Powers Collaborates on Safety-Boosting Resident Traffic Enforcement Bill▸Council Member Restler’s bill lets New Yorkers ticket drivers who block bike lanes, bus lanes, sidewalks, or hydrants near schools. Twenty-four council members back it. The bill targets driver impunity and NYPD inaction. Advocates say it protects cyclists and pedestrians.
Bill number not specified. Sponsored by Council Member Lincoln Restler, the bill is advancing in the City Council with 24 out of 51 members signed on as of November 7, 2022. It sits with the Transportation Committee, chaired by Selvena Brooks-Powers, who is working with Restler to streamline the complaint process. The bill’s summary: it allows residents to ticket drivers who block bike lanes, bus lanes, sidewalks, crosswalks, or fire hydrants within 1,320 feet of a school, creating a $175 fine and a civilian complaint protocol. Restler and Brooks-Powers are refining the process to avoid the pitfalls of the city’s anti-idling law, which discourages participation. The NYPD and DOT oppose the bill, citing concerns about neighbor conflict. Advocates support it, highlighting NYPD’s failure to protect vulnerable road users. The bill is seen as a major improvement over the ineffective 311 system.
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UPDATE: Restler Bill to Allow Residents to Ticket Dangerous Drivers Gaining Steam,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-07
Richards Supports Rezoning Despite Safety Concerns and Opposition▸Queens Community Board 2 voted to block a new SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard. Local leaders demand housing, not more cars. They cite danger, pollution, and reckless driving. Council Member Julie Won and Assembly Member González-Rojas back the board. The fight moves to City Planning.
On November 7, 2022, Queens Community Board 2 passed a resolution rejecting a rezoning application for a Lincoln SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard, Woodside. The matter, described as a call for a moratorium on car-related development, pits housing needs against car infrastructure. Council Member Julie Won supported the board, stating, "It should be a neighborhood rezoning instead of spot rezoning... we need to make it safer and more liveable." Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas also opposed the dealership, urging the space be used for affordable housing and highlighting dangerous driving by existing dealerships. Despite Borough President Donovan Richards' support for the rezoning, citing cycling and EV promotion, the application faces strong local resistance. The City Planning Commission now reviews the case, with a City Council vote possible. The board and electeds argue more cars mean more risk for pedestrians and cyclists on a deadly stretch.
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Woodside Wants Housing, But It’s Likely to Get More SUVs,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-07
Jeep and Nissan Run Light, Crash Hard in Queens▸Two cars tore through a red light on Carson Street. Metal slammed metal. The Nissan driver’s head was crushed. Four others hurt. Sirens cut the dawn. The street lay still, marked by reckless speed and disregard.
A Jeep and a Nissan collided at Carson Street and 219th in Queens. Both vehicles ran the light, according to the police report: 'A Jeep slammed into a Nissan’s front. Both ran the light.' The Nissan’s driver, a 30-year-old man, suffered severe head injuries and was found unconscious. Four other occupants, aged 20 to 24, were also injured, with complaints of back pain and other trauma. The police report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors for both drivers. The Nissan driver wore no seatbelt, but this detail follows the primary driver errors. The crash left the intersection scarred, a stark result of ignoring traffic signals and speeding.
Richards Defends Congestion Pricing Amid Queens Political Spat▸Councilman Holden and Borough President Richards fought online over congestion pricing. Holden called it a tax on workers. Richards fired back, sparking accusations of racism and party betrayal. The dispute exposed deep rifts over street safety and car dominance.
On November 5, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards clashed publicly over the MTA's congestion pricing plan. The dispute, reported by nypost.com, began with Holden calling the plan 'another tax on hardworking New Yorkers' and demanding a referendum. Richards retweeted Holden, suggesting an 'actual Democrat' should replace him, and responded to a supporter with 'Yeah white supremacy.' The exchange escalated, drawing condemnation from other officials. The matter centered on the policy to charge motorists entering Manhattan below 60th Street. Holden joined a bipartisan press conference urging Governor Hochul to let voters decide. The spat revealed sharp divides over congestion pricing, with Holden opposing the plan and Richards defending it. No formal council bill or vote was involved, but the fight highlighted the political and racial tensions surrounding street safety and car use in New York City.
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Twitter spat between Queens Dems Donovan Richards and Robert Holden turns racial,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-05
Brooks-Powers Supports Safety-Boosting NYC Greenway Master Plan▸City Council passed a bill to map and expand greenways for cyclists and walkers. The plan targets neglected neighborhoods. It demands real infrastructure, not just paint. Advocates say it will open safe routes, cut danger, and connect the city.
On October 27, 2022, the City Council passed a bill requiring a comprehensive master plan for New York City's greenways. The legislation, championed by Council Member Carlina Rivera and supported by Transportation Committee Chair Selvena N. Brooks-Powers (District 31), mandates the city to study, map, and expand greenways—'highways for cyclists and pedestrians, separated from motor vehicle traffic.' The bill focuses on low-income and underserved neighborhoods, with a final plan due by December 2024 and updates every five years. Rivera said, 'All of us are here today because we believe in a future where New Yorkers of all backgrounds... can safely access active transportation.' Brooks-Powers called it 'a real opportunity... to make a profound impact.' Advocates like Jon Orcutt of Bike New York praised the move, urging the city to build 'real infrastructure for cycling.' The bill passed nearly unanimously, signaling strong council support for safer, more equitable streets.
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Comprehensive NYC Greenway plan for bike, pedestrian infrastructure passes City Council,
amny.com,
Published 2022-10-27
Two Sedans Collide on 228 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 228 Street. Impact hit left side doors of one car and front center of the other. A 9-year-old passenger suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Both drivers were licensed women going straight. Failure to yield caused the crash.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 228 Street. One vehicle was struck on the left side doors, while the other was damaged at the center front end. A 9-year-old male passenger in the right rear seat of one sedan was injured, sustaining neck injuries and whiplash. The passenger was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. Both drivers were licensed women traveling straight ahead. The report lists 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the contributing factor. No other contributing factors were specified. The crash caused significant damage to both vehicles and resulted in injury to the child passenger.
2Sedans Crash After Traffic Control Ignored▸Two sedans collided at 229 Street and 138 Avenue. Both drivers disregarded traffic control. A female driver and her passenger suffered head and hip injuries. Metal twisted. Both victims stayed conscious.
According to the police report, two sedans crashed at the intersection of 229 Street and 138 Avenue in Queens. Both vehicles went straight ahead. Both drivers disregarded traffic control, leading to the collision. The Honda struck the Toyota's front end. The female driver of the Toyota suffered bruising to her hip and upper leg. Her female passenger sustained a head injury. Both were conscious and not ejected. The report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the primary contributing factor. No other factors or victim errors were noted.
Distracted Driver Rear-Ends Stopped Sedan in Queens▸A Honda slammed into a stopped BMW on 228 Street. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, suffered back bruises. Police blamed driver inattention. Metal crumpled. One driver hurt. Both cars damaged.
According to the police report, a rear-end crash happened on 228 Street in Queens. A Honda sedan struck a stopped BMW sedan from behind. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, was injured with back contusions. She was conscious at the scene. Police listed 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the cause. The BMW was stopped in traffic. No other contributing factors were noted. The Honda's right front bumper and the BMW's right rear bumper were damaged in the impact.
Brooks-Powers Supports DOT Accountability and Data Transparency▸Council Member Gale Brewer challenges DOT’s street safety boasts. She questions claims of 750 redesigned intersections. Public data shows far less. Most fixes are signal timing, not real protection. Advocates want proof, not promises. Road deaths remain high. Brewer vows investigation.
On October 5, 2022, Council Member Gale Brewer, chair of the Council's oversight committee, announced plans to investigate the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) street safety claims. Brewer questioned DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez’s assertion that 750 of 1,000 intersections were redesigned, citing public data showing fewer than 400. Brewer said, “I love the idea of using her committee's investigatory power to explore whether the Adams administration has indeed redesigned 750 of the promised 1,000 intersections... or whether it done fewer than that, as the agency's own public data shows.” She confirmed her intent to use committee investigators and hold an oversight hearing. The matter, titled “City Council oversight inquiry into DOT street safety implementation and data transparency,” highlights DOT’s lack of documentation and reliance on signal retiming over physical improvements. Advocates and Brewer demand full transparency and real progress. Road deaths remain high, and the city lags on legal mandates for bus and bike lanes.
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CM Brewer: ‘I’ll Hold DOT Accountable on Promises and Data’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-10-05
2Queens Sedans Collide on 225 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 225 Street in Queens. One driver made a left turn into the path of another going straight. Both front passengers suffered injuries and shock. Both drivers distracted. Impact hit right side doors and front bumpers.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 225 Street in Queens. One vehicle was making a left turn while the other was traveling straight. The collision impacted the right side doors of the turning vehicle and the front bumper of the other. Two female front-seat passengers were injured, suffering hip and upper leg injuries and whole-body trauma, both experiencing shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors for both drivers. No pedestrians were involved. The crash caused significant vehicle damage and injuries to occupants, highlighting the dangers of distracted driving.
Richards Urges Balancing Transit Equity and QueensWay Park▸Mayor Adams broke ground on QueensWay, a $35 million park project on old rail tracks. Supporters cheer new green space for 330,000 locals. Critics warn it kills hopes for restored train service. The fight pits open space against transit justice in Queens.
On September 16, 2022, Mayor Adams announced the start of the QueensWay project, a $35 million plan to turn a defunct LIRR branch in Queens into a linear park. The first phase includes $5 million for environmental review and $30 million for the Metropolitan Hub. The matter summary states: 'converting a defunct LIRR branch into a Highline-style park in Queens.' Council Member Lynn Schulman supports the park, calling it 'shovel-ready.' Borough President Donovan Richards and Assembly Members Jenifer Rajkumar and David Weprin back both the park and the QueensLink transit proposal. Richards said, 'We need to do both when it comes to making sure that we can enhance our public transportation and also ensuring that our communities have access to open space.' Transit advocates warn the park blocks future rail service, cutting off faster commutes and cleaner air for southern Queens. The MTA previously cited high costs for transit reactivation. The debate continues over whether the right-of-way should serve parks, transit, or both.
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Mayor Launches First Phase of QueensWay Linear Park — But What About Transit?,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-09-16
Two sedans collided on Springfield Boulevard near East Gate Plaza. One driver turned left and struck a southbound car. The turning driver, a woman, suffered chest abrasions. Failure to yield listed as cause.
According to the police report, a 28-year-old female driver was injured when her sedan, making a left turn eastbound on Springfield Boulevard, collided with a southbound sedan near East Gate Plaza in Queens. The impact struck the center front end of the turning vehicle and the right front bumper of the other. The injured driver suffered chest abrasions and was conscious at the scene. The report lists "Failure to Yield Right-of-Way" as a contributing factor. Both drivers were licensed and operating NY-registered vehicles. The injured driver was restrained by a lap belt and harness. No ejections occurred.
Brooks-Powers Supports Safety-Boosting Crackdown on Obscured Plates▸Drivers hide plates with leaves and branches. They dodge cameras. They dodge tolls. The city loses millions. Council cracks down. Brooks-Powers calls it a safety threat. New laws ban cover sales. DOT must now report evaders. Streets stay dangerous.
On November 26, 2022, the New York City Council took legislative action to combat license plate obscuring, a tactic used by drivers to evade tolls and traffic cameras. The matter, described as 'banning the sale of toll-beating covers and requiring DOT to report cars evading red lights and speed cameras with unreadable license plates,' passed through the transportation and infrastructure committee. Council Member Selvena N. Brooks-Powers, chair of the committee and sponsor, stated, 'It’s a safety issue, it’s an issue in terms of [city] revenue, it’s an issue in terms of ensuring we have safe streets and holding people accountable.' The city has lost $19 million this year due to unreadable plates. The new laws aim to close loopholes and restore accountability, but the risk to pedestrians and cyclists from untraceable drivers remains high.
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Unbe-leaf-able: Scofflaws dodge tolls and traffic cameras with foliage,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-26
SUV Backing Strikes Pedestrian on Springfield Blvd▸A 47-year-old man was injured when an SUV backing south on Springfield Boulevard hit him. The pedestrian was not in the roadway. The impact caused knee and lower leg injuries. The driver backed unsafely, according to police.
According to the police report, a 2019 Honda SUV was backing south on Springfield Boulevard in Queens when it struck a 47-year-old male pedestrian. The pedestrian was not in the roadway at the time of the crash but suffered injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists "Backing Unsafely" as a contributing factor to the collision. The point of impact was the center back end of the vehicle. The pedestrian was left in shock with visible injuries but no visible complaints. No other driver errors or victim factors were noted in the report.
Brooks-Powers Opposes Permanent Busways Supports Shorter Hours▸City made Jamaica and Archer Avenue busways permanent. Jamaica Avenue hours slashed. Archer stays 24/7. Northern Boulevard bus lanes started after months of delay. Local politicians fought restrictions. Bus riders still face slow trips. City bows to business pressure.
On November 15, 2022, the Adams administration made busways on Jamaica and Archer avenues permanent after a one-year pilot. The Department of Transportation cut Jamaica Avenue’s busway hours from 24/7 to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, while Archer Avenue remains round-the-clock. The Northern Boulevard bus lane project, stalled for months after Council Member Francisco Moya lobbied against it, finally began installation. Council Members Nantasha Williams and Selvena Brooks-Powers opposed the busways, calling for their elimination and citing business concerns. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and other local officials pushed for even shorter hours. DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez defended the busways, saying, 'strong bus infrastructure is a necessity.' Despite opposition, the city kept some busway hours intact, but caved to business interests, reducing protection for bus riders and vulnerable road users.
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City Makes Jamaica Busways Permanent But With Shorter Hours; Begins Northern Blvd. Bus Lanes,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-15
Comrie Supports Busway Hour Reductions Against Permanent Busways▸City made Jamaica and Archer Avenue busways permanent. Jamaica Avenue hours slashed. Archer stays 24/7. Northern Boulevard bus lanes started after months of delay. Local politicians fought restrictions. Bus riders still face slow trips. City bows to business pressure.
On November 15, 2022, the Adams administration made busways on Jamaica and Archer avenues permanent after a one-year pilot. The Department of Transportation cut Jamaica Avenue’s busway hours from 24/7 to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, while Archer Avenue remains round-the-clock. The Northern Boulevard bus lane project, stalled for months after Council Member Francisco Moya lobbied against it, finally began installation. Council Members Nantasha Williams and Selvena Brooks-Powers opposed the busways, calling for their elimination and citing business concerns. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and other local officials pushed for even shorter hours. DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez defended the busways, saying, 'strong bus infrastructure is a necessity.' Despite opposition, the city kept some busway hours intact, but caved to business interests, reducing protection for bus riders and vulnerable road users.
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City Makes Jamaica Busways Permanent But With Shorter Hours; Begins Northern Blvd. Bus Lanes,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-15
Richards Supports Shortened Jamaica Busway Hours▸City made Jamaica and Archer Avenue busways permanent. Jamaica Avenue hours slashed. Archer stays 24/7. Northern Boulevard bus lanes started after months of delay. Local politicians fought restrictions. Bus riders still face slow trips. City bows to business pressure.
On November 15, 2022, the Adams administration made busways on Jamaica and Archer avenues permanent after a one-year pilot. The Department of Transportation cut Jamaica Avenue’s busway hours from 24/7 to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, while Archer Avenue remains round-the-clock. The Northern Boulevard bus lane project, stalled for months after Council Member Francisco Moya lobbied against it, finally began installation. Council Members Nantasha Williams and Selvena Brooks-Powers opposed the busways, calling for their elimination and citing business concerns. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and other local officials pushed for even shorter hours. DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez defended the busways, saying, 'strong bus infrastructure is a necessity.' Despite opposition, the city kept some busway hours intact, but caved to business interests, reducing protection for bus riders and vulnerable road users.
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City Makes Jamaica Busways Permanent But With Shorter Hours; Begins Northern Blvd. Bus Lanes,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-15
Comrie Mentioned in Debate Over Misguided Speed Hump Delays▸Councilmember Rita Joseph blasted DOT for years-long delays on speed hump installations in Flatbush. Twelve sites requested, one approved, none built. Meanwhile, crashes injure cyclists and pedestrians daily. Joseph calls the delay unacceptable. Streets stay dangerous. DOT offers no timeline.
On November 11, 2022, Councilmember Rita Joseph (District 40) issued a public letter to the Department of Transportation, demanding answers for the slow pace of speed hump installations. The matter, titled "#StuckAtDOT: It Takes Years (and Years) to Get a Speed Hump in this City," details Joseph’s frustration: 'In response to a speed hump request, my office was informed by the DOT that...studies are finalized after two years.' Joseph listed twelve locations needing speed humps; only one was approved, none installed. Eight were denied, several remain under review. Her district saw 1,173 crashes this year, injuring 87 cyclists and 141 pedestrians. Joseph, who lost students to traffic violence, calls the delay 'unacceptable.' DOT says it is reviewing her letter. Advocates demand faster action, saying, 'It should never take two years to implement these straight-forward safety measures.'
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#StuckAtDOT: It Takes Years (and Years) to Get a Speed Hump in this City,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2022-11-11
Richards Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Councilman Robert Holden slammed congestion pricing in a New York Post editorial. He called the plan a disaster for outer-borough residents. Holden argued it would barely cut Manhattan traffic, worsen Bronx air, and punish working families. The editorial dismissed equity concerns.
On November 8, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) was mentioned in a New York Post editorial opposing congestion pricing. The editorial, titled 'Hey, Donovan Richards: It’s actually way more racist to FAVOR congestion pricing,' criticized Queens Borough President Donovan Richards for labeling Holden’s opposition as racist. The piece argued, 'congestion pricing would be a disaster,' claiming it would harm diverse outer-borough residents and worsen air quality in The Bronx by diverting diesel trucks. The editorial cited MTA studies predicting only a 3.1% reduction in Manhattan traffic and framed the plan as an unfair tax on commerce. Holden’s stance reflects ongoing resistance to congestion pricing in the council, with equity and environmental impacts at the center of the debate. No formal council vote or bill was referenced in this editorial.
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Hey, Donovan Richards: It’s actually way more racist to FAVOR congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-08
Brooks-Powers Collaborates on Safety-Boosting Resident Traffic Enforcement Bill▸Council Member Restler’s bill lets New Yorkers ticket drivers who block bike lanes, bus lanes, sidewalks, or hydrants near schools. Twenty-four council members back it. The bill targets driver impunity and NYPD inaction. Advocates say it protects cyclists and pedestrians.
Bill number not specified. Sponsored by Council Member Lincoln Restler, the bill is advancing in the City Council with 24 out of 51 members signed on as of November 7, 2022. It sits with the Transportation Committee, chaired by Selvena Brooks-Powers, who is working with Restler to streamline the complaint process. The bill’s summary: it allows residents to ticket drivers who block bike lanes, bus lanes, sidewalks, crosswalks, or fire hydrants within 1,320 feet of a school, creating a $175 fine and a civilian complaint protocol. Restler and Brooks-Powers are refining the process to avoid the pitfalls of the city’s anti-idling law, which discourages participation. The NYPD and DOT oppose the bill, citing concerns about neighbor conflict. Advocates support it, highlighting NYPD’s failure to protect vulnerable road users. The bill is seen as a major improvement over the ineffective 311 system.
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UPDATE: Restler Bill to Allow Residents to Ticket Dangerous Drivers Gaining Steam,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-07
Richards Supports Rezoning Despite Safety Concerns and Opposition▸Queens Community Board 2 voted to block a new SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard. Local leaders demand housing, not more cars. They cite danger, pollution, and reckless driving. Council Member Julie Won and Assembly Member González-Rojas back the board. The fight moves to City Planning.
On November 7, 2022, Queens Community Board 2 passed a resolution rejecting a rezoning application for a Lincoln SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard, Woodside. The matter, described as a call for a moratorium on car-related development, pits housing needs against car infrastructure. Council Member Julie Won supported the board, stating, "It should be a neighborhood rezoning instead of spot rezoning... we need to make it safer and more liveable." Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas also opposed the dealership, urging the space be used for affordable housing and highlighting dangerous driving by existing dealerships. Despite Borough President Donovan Richards' support for the rezoning, citing cycling and EV promotion, the application faces strong local resistance. The City Planning Commission now reviews the case, with a City Council vote possible. The board and electeds argue more cars mean more risk for pedestrians and cyclists on a deadly stretch.
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Woodside Wants Housing, But It’s Likely to Get More SUVs,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-07
Jeep and Nissan Run Light, Crash Hard in Queens▸Two cars tore through a red light on Carson Street. Metal slammed metal. The Nissan driver’s head was crushed. Four others hurt. Sirens cut the dawn. The street lay still, marked by reckless speed and disregard.
A Jeep and a Nissan collided at Carson Street and 219th in Queens. Both vehicles ran the light, according to the police report: 'A Jeep slammed into a Nissan’s front. Both ran the light.' The Nissan’s driver, a 30-year-old man, suffered severe head injuries and was found unconscious. Four other occupants, aged 20 to 24, were also injured, with complaints of back pain and other trauma. The police report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors for both drivers. The Nissan driver wore no seatbelt, but this detail follows the primary driver errors. The crash left the intersection scarred, a stark result of ignoring traffic signals and speeding.
Richards Defends Congestion Pricing Amid Queens Political Spat▸Councilman Holden and Borough President Richards fought online over congestion pricing. Holden called it a tax on workers. Richards fired back, sparking accusations of racism and party betrayal. The dispute exposed deep rifts over street safety and car dominance.
On November 5, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards clashed publicly over the MTA's congestion pricing plan. The dispute, reported by nypost.com, began with Holden calling the plan 'another tax on hardworking New Yorkers' and demanding a referendum. Richards retweeted Holden, suggesting an 'actual Democrat' should replace him, and responded to a supporter with 'Yeah white supremacy.' The exchange escalated, drawing condemnation from other officials. The matter centered on the policy to charge motorists entering Manhattan below 60th Street. Holden joined a bipartisan press conference urging Governor Hochul to let voters decide. The spat revealed sharp divides over congestion pricing, with Holden opposing the plan and Richards defending it. No formal council bill or vote was involved, but the fight highlighted the political and racial tensions surrounding street safety and car use in New York City.
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Twitter spat between Queens Dems Donovan Richards and Robert Holden turns racial,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-05
Brooks-Powers Supports Safety-Boosting NYC Greenway Master Plan▸City Council passed a bill to map and expand greenways for cyclists and walkers. The plan targets neglected neighborhoods. It demands real infrastructure, not just paint. Advocates say it will open safe routes, cut danger, and connect the city.
On October 27, 2022, the City Council passed a bill requiring a comprehensive master plan for New York City's greenways. The legislation, championed by Council Member Carlina Rivera and supported by Transportation Committee Chair Selvena N. Brooks-Powers (District 31), mandates the city to study, map, and expand greenways—'highways for cyclists and pedestrians, separated from motor vehicle traffic.' The bill focuses on low-income and underserved neighborhoods, with a final plan due by December 2024 and updates every five years. Rivera said, 'All of us are here today because we believe in a future where New Yorkers of all backgrounds... can safely access active transportation.' Brooks-Powers called it 'a real opportunity... to make a profound impact.' Advocates like Jon Orcutt of Bike New York praised the move, urging the city to build 'real infrastructure for cycling.' The bill passed nearly unanimously, signaling strong council support for safer, more equitable streets.
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Comprehensive NYC Greenway plan for bike, pedestrian infrastructure passes City Council,
amny.com,
Published 2022-10-27
Two Sedans Collide on 228 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 228 Street. Impact hit left side doors of one car and front center of the other. A 9-year-old passenger suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Both drivers were licensed women going straight. Failure to yield caused the crash.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 228 Street. One vehicle was struck on the left side doors, while the other was damaged at the center front end. A 9-year-old male passenger in the right rear seat of one sedan was injured, sustaining neck injuries and whiplash. The passenger was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. Both drivers were licensed women traveling straight ahead. The report lists 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the contributing factor. No other contributing factors were specified. The crash caused significant damage to both vehicles and resulted in injury to the child passenger.
2Sedans Crash After Traffic Control Ignored▸Two sedans collided at 229 Street and 138 Avenue. Both drivers disregarded traffic control. A female driver and her passenger suffered head and hip injuries. Metal twisted. Both victims stayed conscious.
According to the police report, two sedans crashed at the intersection of 229 Street and 138 Avenue in Queens. Both vehicles went straight ahead. Both drivers disregarded traffic control, leading to the collision. The Honda struck the Toyota's front end. The female driver of the Toyota suffered bruising to her hip and upper leg. Her female passenger sustained a head injury. Both were conscious and not ejected. The report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the primary contributing factor. No other factors or victim errors were noted.
Distracted Driver Rear-Ends Stopped Sedan in Queens▸A Honda slammed into a stopped BMW on 228 Street. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, suffered back bruises. Police blamed driver inattention. Metal crumpled. One driver hurt. Both cars damaged.
According to the police report, a rear-end crash happened on 228 Street in Queens. A Honda sedan struck a stopped BMW sedan from behind. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, was injured with back contusions. She was conscious at the scene. Police listed 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the cause. The BMW was stopped in traffic. No other contributing factors were noted. The Honda's right front bumper and the BMW's right rear bumper were damaged in the impact.
Brooks-Powers Supports DOT Accountability and Data Transparency▸Council Member Gale Brewer challenges DOT’s street safety boasts. She questions claims of 750 redesigned intersections. Public data shows far less. Most fixes are signal timing, not real protection. Advocates want proof, not promises. Road deaths remain high. Brewer vows investigation.
On October 5, 2022, Council Member Gale Brewer, chair of the Council's oversight committee, announced plans to investigate the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) street safety claims. Brewer questioned DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez’s assertion that 750 of 1,000 intersections were redesigned, citing public data showing fewer than 400. Brewer said, “I love the idea of using her committee's investigatory power to explore whether the Adams administration has indeed redesigned 750 of the promised 1,000 intersections... or whether it done fewer than that, as the agency's own public data shows.” She confirmed her intent to use committee investigators and hold an oversight hearing. The matter, titled “City Council oversight inquiry into DOT street safety implementation and data transparency,” highlights DOT’s lack of documentation and reliance on signal retiming over physical improvements. Advocates and Brewer demand full transparency and real progress. Road deaths remain high, and the city lags on legal mandates for bus and bike lanes.
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CM Brewer: ‘I’ll Hold DOT Accountable on Promises and Data’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-10-05
2Queens Sedans Collide on 225 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 225 Street in Queens. One driver made a left turn into the path of another going straight. Both front passengers suffered injuries and shock. Both drivers distracted. Impact hit right side doors and front bumpers.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 225 Street in Queens. One vehicle was making a left turn while the other was traveling straight. The collision impacted the right side doors of the turning vehicle and the front bumper of the other. Two female front-seat passengers were injured, suffering hip and upper leg injuries and whole-body trauma, both experiencing shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors for both drivers. No pedestrians were involved. The crash caused significant vehicle damage and injuries to occupants, highlighting the dangers of distracted driving.
Richards Urges Balancing Transit Equity and QueensWay Park▸Mayor Adams broke ground on QueensWay, a $35 million park project on old rail tracks. Supporters cheer new green space for 330,000 locals. Critics warn it kills hopes for restored train service. The fight pits open space against transit justice in Queens.
On September 16, 2022, Mayor Adams announced the start of the QueensWay project, a $35 million plan to turn a defunct LIRR branch in Queens into a linear park. The first phase includes $5 million for environmental review and $30 million for the Metropolitan Hub. The matter summary states: 'converting a defunct LIRR branch into a Highline-style park in Queens.' Council Member Lynn Schulman supports the park, calling it 'shovel-ready.' Borough President Donovan Richards and Assembly Members Jenifer Rajkumar and David Weprin back both the park and the QueensLink transit proposal. Richards said, 'We need to do both when it comes to making sure that we can enhance our public transportation and also ensuring that our communities have access to open space.' Transit advocates warn the park blocks future rail service, cutting off faster commutes and cleaner air for southern Queens. The MTA previously cited high costs for transit reactivation. The debate continues over whether the right-of-way should serve parks, transit, or both.
-
Mayor Launches First Phase of QueensWay Linear Park — But What About Transit?,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-09-16
Drivers hide plates with leaves and branches. They dodge cameras. They dodge tolls. The city loses millions. Council cracks down. Brooks-Powers calls it a safety threat. New laws ban cover sales. DOT must now report evaders. Streets stay dangerous.
On November 26, 2022, the New York City Council took legislative action to combat license plate obscuring, a tactic used by drivers to evade tolls and traffic cameras. The matter, described as 'banning the sale of toll-beating covers and requiring DOT to report cars evading red lights and speed cameras with unreadable license plates,' passed through the transportation and infrastructure committee. Council Member Selvena N. Brooks-Powers, chair of the committee and sponsor, stated, 'It’s a safety issue, it’s an issue in terms of [city] revenue, it’s an issue in terms of ensuring we have safe streets and holding people accountable.' The city has lost $19 million this year due to unreadable plates. The new laws aim to close loopholes and restore accountability, but the risk to pedestrians and cyclists from untraceable drivers remains high.
- Unbe-leaf-able: Scofflaws dodge tolls and traffic cameras with foliage, nypost.com, Published 2022-11-26
SUV Backing Strikes Pedestrian on Springfield Blvd▸A 47-year-old man was injured when an SUV backing south on Springfield Boulevard hit him. The pedestrian was not in the roadway. The impact caused knee and lower leg injuries. The driver backed unsafely, according to police.
According to the police report, a 2019 Honda SUV was backing south on Springfield Boulevard in Queens when it struck a 47-year-old male pedestrian. The pedestrian was not in the roadway at the time of the crash but suffered injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists "Backing Unsafely" as a contributing factor to the collision. The point of impact was the center back end of the vehicle. The pedestrian was left in shock with visible injuries but no visible complaints. No other driver errors or victim factors were noted in the report.
Brooks-Powers Opposes Permanent Busways Supports Shorter Hours▸City made Jamaica and Archer Avenue busways permanent. Jamaica Avenue hours slashed. Archer stays 24/7. Northern Boulevard bus lanes started after months of delay. Local politicians fought restrictions. Bus riders still face slow trips. City bows to business pressure.
On November 15, 2022, the Adams administration made busways on Jamaica and Archer avenues permanent after a one-year pilot. The Department of Transportation cut Jamaica Avenue’s busway hours from 24/7 to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, while Archer Avenue remains round-the-clock. The Northern Boulevard bus lane project, stalled for months after Council Member Francisco Moya lobbied against it, finally began installation. Council Members Nantasha Williams and Selvena Brooks-Powers opposed the busways, calling for their elimination and citing business concerns. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and other local officials pushed for even shorter hours. DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez defended the busways, saying, 'strong bus infrastructure is a necessity.' Despite opposition, the city kept some busway hours intact, but caved to business interests, reducing protection for bus riders and vulnerable road users.
-
City Makes Jamaica Busways Permanent But With Shorter Hours; Begins Northern Blvd. Bus Lanes,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-15
Comrie Supports Busway Hour Reductions Against Permanent Busways▸City made Jamaica and Archer Avenue busways permanent. Jamaica Avenue hours slashed. Archer stays 24/7. Northern Boulevard bus lanes started after months of delay. Local politicians fought restrictions. Bus riders still face slow trips. City bows to business pressure.
On November 15, 2022, the Adams administration made busways on Jamaica and Archer avenues permanent after a one-year pilot. The Department of Transportation cut Jamaica Avenue’s busway hours from 24/7 to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, while Archer Avenue remains round-the-clock. The Northern Boulevard bus lane project, stalled for months after Council Member Francisco Moya lobbied against it, finally began installation. Council Members Nantasha Williams and Selvena Brooks-Powers opposed the busways, calling for their elimination and citing business concerns. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and other local officials pushed for even shorter hours. DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez defended the busways, saying, 'strong bus infrastructure is a necessity.' Despite opposition, the city kept some busway hours intact, but caved to business interests, reducing protection for bus riders and vulnerable road users.
-
City Makes Jamaica Busways Permanent But With Shorter Hours; Begins Northern Blvd. Bus Lanes,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-15
Richards Supports Shortened Jamaica Busway Hours▸City made Jamaica and Archer Avenue busways permanent. Jamaica Avenue hours slashed. Archer stays 24/7. Northern Boulevard bus lanes started after months of delay. Local politicians fought restrictions. Bus riders still face slow trips. City bows to business pressure.
On November 15, 2022, the Adams administration made busways on Jamaica and Archer avenues permanent after a one-year pilot. The Department of Transportation cut Jamaica Avenue’s busway hours from 24/7 to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, while Archer Avenue remains round-the-clock. The Northern Boulevard bus lane project, stalled for months after Council Member Francisco Moya lobbied against it, finally began installation. Council Members Nantasha Williams and Selvena Brooks-Powers opposed the busways, calling for their elimination and citing business concerns. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and other local officials pushed for even shorter hours. DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez defended the busways, saying, 'strong bus infrastructure is a necessity.' Despite opposition, the city kept some busway hours intact, but caved to business interests, reducing protection for bus riders and vulnerable road users.
-
City Makes Jamaica Busways Permanent But With Shorter Hours; Begins Northern Blvd. Bus Lanes,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-15
Comrie Mentioned in Debate Over Misguided Speed Hump Delays▸Councilmember Rita Joseph blasted DOT for years-long delays on speed hump installations in Flatbush. Twelve sites requested, one approved, none built. Meanwhile, crashes injure cyclists and pedestrians daily. Joseph calls the delay unacceptable. Streets stay dangerous. DOT offers no timeline.
On November 11, 2022, Councilmember Rita Joseph (District 40) issued a public letter to the Department of Transportation, demanding answers for the slow pace of speed hump installations. The matter, titled "#StuckAtDOT: It Takes Years (and Years) to Get a Speed Hump in this City," details Joseph’s frustration: 'In response to a speed hump request, my office was informed by the DOT that...studies are finalized after two years.' Joseph listed twelve locations needing speed humps; only one was approved, none installed. Eight were denied, several remain under review. Her district saw 1,173 crashes this year, injuring 87 cyclists and 141 pedestrians. Joseph, who lost students to traffic violence, calls the delay 'unacceptable.' DOT says it is reviewing her letter. Advocates demand faster action, saying, 'It should never take two years to implement these straight-forward safety measures.'
-
#StuckAtDOT: It Takes Years (and Years) to Get a Speed Hump in this City,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2022-11-11
Richards Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Councilman Robert Holden slammed congestion pricing in a New York Post editorial. He called the plan a disaster for outer-borough residents. Holden argued it would barely cut Manhattan traffic, worsen Bronx air, and punish working families. The editorial dismissed equity concerns.
On November 8, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) was mentioned in a New York Post editorial opposing congestion pricing. The editorial, titled 'Hey, Donovan Richards: It’s actually way more racist to FAVOR congestion pricing,' criticized Queens Borough President Donovan Richards for labeling Holden’s opposition as racist. The piece argued, 'congestion pricing would be a disaster,' claiming it would harm diverse outer-borough residents and worsen air quality in The Bronx by diverting diesel trucks. The editorial cited MTA studies predicting only a 3.1% reduction in Manhattan traffic and framed the plan as an unfair tax on commerce. Holden’s stance reflects ongoing resistance to congestion pricing in the council, with equity and environmental impacts at the center of the debate. No formal council vote or bill was referenced in this editorial.
-
Hey, Donovan Richards: It’s actually way more racist to FAVOR congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-08
Brooks-Powers Collaborates on Safety-Boosting Resident Traffic Enforcement Bill▸Council Member Restler’s bill lets New Yorkers ticket drivers who block bike lanes, bus lanes, sidewalks, or hydrants near schools. Twenty-four council members back it. The bill targets driver impunity and NYPD inaction. Advocates say it protects cyclists and pedestrians.
Bill number not specified. Sponsored by Council Member Lincoln Restler, the bill is advancing in the City Council with 24 out of 51 members signed on as of November 7, 2022. It sits with the Transportation Committee, chaired by Selvena Brooks-Powers, who is working with Restler to streamline the complaint process. The bill’s summary: it allows residents to ticket drivers who block bike lanes, bus lanes, sidewalks, crosswalks, or fire hydrants within 1,320 feet of a school, creating a $175 fine and a civilian complaint protocol. Restler and Brooks-Powers are refining the process to avoid the pitfalls of the city’s anti-idling law, which discourages participation. The NYPD and DOT oppose the bill, citing concerns about neighbor conflict. Advocates support it, highlighting NYPD’s failure to protect vulnerable road users. The bill is seen as a major improvement over the ineffective 311 system.
-
UPDATE: Restler Bill to Allow Residents to Ticket Dangerous Drivers Gaining Steam,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-07
Richards Supports Rezoning Despite Safety Concerns and Opposition▸Queens Community Board 2 voted to block a new SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard. Local leaders demand housing, not more cars. They cite danger, pollution, and reckless driving. Council Member Julie Won and Assembly Member González-Rojas back the board. The fight moves to City Planning.
On November 7, 2022, Queens Community Board 2 passed a resolution rejecting a rezoning application for a Lincoln SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard, Woodside. The matter, described as a call for a moratorium on car-related development, pits housing needs against car infrastructure. Council Member Julie Won supported the board, stating, "It should be a neighborhood rezoning instead of spot rezoning... we need to make it safer and more liveable." Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas also opposed the dealership, urging the space be used for affordable housing and highlighting dangerous driving by existing dealerships. Despite Borough President Donovan Richards' support for the rezoning, citing cycling and EV promotion, the application faces strong local resistance. The City Planning Commission now reviews the case, with a City Council vote possible. The board and electeds argue more cars mean more risk for pedestrians and cyclists on a deadly stretch.
-
Woodside Wants Housing, But It’s Likely to Get More SUVs,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-07
Jeep and Nissan Run Light, Crash Hard in Queens▸Two cars tore through a red light on Carson Street. Metal slammed metal. The Nissan driver’s head was crushed. Four others hurt. Sirens cut the dawn. The street lay still, marked by reckless speed and disregard.
A Jeep and a Nissan collided at Carson Street and 219th in Queens. Both vehicles ran the light, according to the police report: 'A Jeep slammed into a Nissan’s front. Both ran the light.' The Nissan’s driver, a 30-year-old man, suffered severe head injuries and was found unconscious. Four other occupants, aged 20 to 24, were also injured, with complaints of back pain and other trauma. The police report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors for both drivers. The Nissan driver wore no seatbelt, but this detail follows the primary driver errors. The crash left the intersection scarred, a stark result of ignoring traffic signals and speeding.
Richards Defends Congestion Pricing Amid Queens Political Spat▸Councilman Holden and Borough President Richards fought online over congestion pricing. Holden called it a tax on workers. Richards fired back, sparking accusations of racism and party betrayal. The dispute exposed deep rifts over street safety and car dominance.
On November 5, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards clashed publicly over the MTA's congestion pricing plan. The dispute, reported by nypost.com, began with Holden calling the plan 'another tax on hardworking New Yorkers' and demanding a referendum. Richards retweeted Holden, suggesting an 'actual Democrat' should replace him, and responded to a supporter with 'Yeah white supremacy.' The exchange escalated, drawing condemnation from other officials. The matter centered on the policy to charge motorists entering Manhattan below 60th Street. Holden joined a bipartisan press conference urging Governor Hochul to let voters decide. The spat revealed sharp divides over congestion pricing, with Holden opposing the plan and Richards defending it. No formal council bill or vote was involved, but the fight highlighted the political and racial tensions surrounding street safety and car use in New York City.
-
Twitter spat between Queens Dems Donovan Richards and Robert Holden turns racial,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-05
Brooks-Powers Supports Safety-Boosting NYC Greenway Master Plan▸City Council passed a bill to map and expand greenways for cyclists and walkers. The plan targets neglected neighborhoods. It demands real infrastructure, not just paint. Advocates say it will open safe routes, cut danger, and connect the city.
On October 27, 2022, the City Council passed a bill requiring a comprehensive master plan for New York City's greenways. The legislation, championed by Council Member Carlina Rivera and supported by Transportation Committee Chair Selvena N. Brooks-Powers (District 31), mandates the city to study, map, and expand greenways—'highways for cyclists and pedestrians, separated from motor vehicle traffic.' The bill focuses on low-income and underserved neighborhoods, with a final plan due by December 2024 and updates every five years. Rivera said, 'All of us are here today because we believe in a future where New Yorkers of all backgrounds... can safely access active transportation.' Brooks-Powers called it 'a real opportunity... to make a profound impact.' Advocates like Jon Orcutt of Bike New York praised the move, urging the city to build 'real infrastructure for cycling.' The bill passed nearly unanimously, signaling strong council support for safer, more equitable streets.
-
Comprehensive NYC Greenway plan for bike, pedestrian infrastructure passes City Council,
amny.com,
Published 2022-10-27
Two Sedans Collide on 228 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 228 Street. Impact hit left side doors of one car and front center of the other. A 9-year-old passenger suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Both drivers were licensed women going straight. Failure to yield caused the crash.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 228 Street. One vehicle was struck on the left side doors, while the other was damaged at the center front end. A 9-year-old male passenger in the right rear seat of one sedan was injured, sustaining neck injuries and whiplash. The passenger was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. Both drivers were licensed women traveling straight ahead. The report lists 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the contributing factor. No other contributing factors were specified. The crash caused significant damage to both vehicles and resulted in injury to the child passenger.
2Sedans Crash After Traffic Control Ignored▸Two sedans collided at 229 Street and 138 Avenue. Both drivers disregarded traffic control. A female driver and her passenger suffered head and hip injuries. Metal twisted. Both victims stayed conscious.
According to the police report, two sedans crashed at the intersection of 229 Street and 138 Avenue in Queens. Both vehicles went straight ahead. Both drivers disregarded traffic control, leading to the collision. The Honda struck the Toyota's front end. The female driver of the Toyota suffered bruising to her hip and upper leg. Her female passenger sustained a head injury. Both were conscious and not ejected. The report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the primary contributing factor. No other factors or victim errors were noted.
Distracted Driver Rear-Ends Stopped Sedan in Queens▸A Honda slammed into a stopped BMW on 228 Street. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, suffered back bruises. Police blamed driver inattention. Metal crumpled. One driver hurt. Both cars damaged.
According to the police report, a rear-end crash happened on 228 Street in Queens. A Honda sedan struck a stopped BMW sedan from behind. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, was injured with back contusions. She was conscious at the scene. Police listed 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the cause. The BMW was stopped in traffic. No other contributing factors were noted. The Honda's right front bumper and the BMW's right rear bumper were damaged in the impact.
Brooks-Powers Supports DOT Accountability and Data Transparency▸Council Member Gale Brewer challenges DOT’s street safety boasts. She questions claims of 750 redesigned intersections. Public data shows far less. Most fixes are signal timing, not real protection. Advocates want proof, not promises. Road deaths remain high. Brewer vows investigation.
On October 5, 2022, Council Member Gale Brewer, chair of the Council's oversight committee, announced plans to investigate the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) street safety claims. Brewer questioned DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez’s assertion that 750 of 1,000 intersections were redesigned, citing public data showing fewer than 400. Brewer said, “I love the idea of using her committee's investigatory power to explore whether the Adams administration has indeed redesigned 750 of the promised 1,000 intersections... or whether it done fewer than that, as the agency's own public data shows.” She confirmed her intent to use committee investigators and hold an oversight hearing. The matter, titled “City Council oversight inquiry into DOT street safety implementation and data transparency,” highlights DOT’s lack of documentation and reliance on signal retiming over physical improvements. Advocates and Brewer demand full transparency and real progress. Road deaths remain high, and the city lags on legal mandates for bus and bike lanes.
-
CM Brewer: ‘I’ll Hold DOT Accountable on Promises and Data’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-10-05
2Queens Sedans Collide on 225 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 225 Street in Queens. One driver made a left turn into the path of another going straight. Both front passengers suffered injuries and shock. Both drivers distracted. Impact hit right side doors and front bumpers.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 225 Street in Queens. One vehicle was making a left turn while the other was traveling straight. The collision impacted the right side doors of the turning vehicle and the front bumper of the other. Two female front-seat passengers were injured, suffering hip and upper leg injuries and whole-body trauma, both experiencing shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors for both drivers. No pedestrians were involved. The crash caused significant vehicle damage and injuries to occupants, highlighting the dangers of distracted driving.
Richards Urges Balancing Transit Equity and QueensWay Park▸Mayor Adams broke ground on QueensWay, a $35 million park project on old rail tracks. Supporters cheer new green space for 330,000 locals. Critics warn it kills hopes for restored train service. The fight pits open space against transit justice in Queens.
On September 16, 2022, Mayor Adams announced the start of the QueensWay project, a $35 million plan to turn a defunct LIRR branch in Queens into a linear park. The first phase includes $5 million for environmental review and $30 million for the Metropolitan Hub. The matter summary states: 'converting a defunct LIRR branch into a Highline-style park in Queens.' Council Member Lynn Schulman supports the park, calling it 'shovel-ready.' Borough President Donovan Richards and Assembly Members Jenifer Rajkumar and David Weprin back both the park and the QueensLink transit proposal. Richards said, 'We need to do both when it comes to making sure that we can enhance our public transportation and also ensuring that our communities have access to open space.' Transit advocates warn the park blocks future rail service, cutting off faster commutes and cleaner air for southern Queens. The MTA previously cited high costs for transit reactivation. The debate continues over whether the right-of-way should serve parks, transit, or both.
-
Mayor Launches First Phase of QueensWay Linear Park — But What About Transit?,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-09-16
A 47-year-old man was injured when an SUV backing south on Springfield Boulevard hit him. The pedestrian was not in the roadway. The impact caused knee and lower leg injuries. The driver backed unsafely, according to police.
According to the police report, a 2019 Honda SUV was backing south on Springfield Boulevard in Queens when it struck a 47-year-old male pedestrian. The pedestrian was not in the roadway at the time of the crash but suffered injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists "Backing Unsafely" as a contributing factor to the collision. The point of impact was the center back end of the vehicle. The pedestrian was left in shock with visible injuries but no visible complaints. No other driver errors or victim factors were noted in the report.
Brooks-Powers Opposes Permanent Busways Supports Shorter Hours▸City made Jamaica and Archer Avenue busways permanent. Jamaica Avenue hours slashed. Archer stays 24/7. Northern Boulevard bus lanes started after months of delay. Local politicians fought restrictions. Bus riders still face slow trips. City bows to business pressure.
On November 15, 2022, the Adams administration made busways on Jamaica and Archer avenues permanent after a one-year pilot. The Department of Transportation cut Jamaica Avenue’s busway hours from 24/7 to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, while Archer Avenue remains round-the-clock. The Northern Boulevard bus lane project, stalled for months after Council Member Francisco Moya lobbied against it, finally began installation. Council Members Nantasha Williams and Selvena Brooks-Powers opposed the busways, calling for their elimination and citing business concerns. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and other local officials pushed for even shorter hours. DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez defended the busways, saying, 'strong bus infrastructure is a necessity.' Despite opposition, the city kept some busway hours intact, but caved to business interests, reducing protection for bus riders and vulnerable road users.
-
City Makes Jamaica Busways Permanent But With Shorter Hours; Begins Northern Blvd. Bus Lanes,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-15
Comrie Supports Busway Hour Reductions Against Permanent Busways▸City made Jamaica and Archer Avenue busways permanent. Jamaica Avenue hours slashed. Archer stays 24/7. Northern Boulevard bus lanes started after months of delay. Local politicians fought restrictions. Bus riders still face slow trips. City bows to business pressure.
On November 15, 2022, the Adams administration made busways on Jamaica and Archer avenues permanent after a one-year pilot. The Department of Transportation cut Jamaica Avenue’s busway hours from 24/7 to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, while Archer Avenue remains round-the-clock. The Northern Boulevard bus lane project, stalled for months after Council Member Francisco Moya lobbied against it, finally began installation. Council Members Nantasha Williams and Selvena Brooks-Powers opposed the busways, calling for their elimination and citing business concerns. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and other local officials pushed for even shorter hours. DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez defended the busways, saying, 'strong bus infrastructure is a necessity.' Despite opposition, the city kept some busway hours intact, but caved to business interests, reducing protection for bus riders and vulnerable road users.
-
City Makes Jamaica Busways Permanent But With Shorter Hours; Begins Northern Blvd. Bus Lanes,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-15
Richards Supports Shortened Jamaica Busway Hours▸City made Jamaica and Archer Avenue busways permanent. Jamaica Avenue hours slashed. Archer stays 24/7. Northern Boulevard bus lanes started after months of delay. Local politicians fought restrictions. Bus riders still face slow trips. City bows to business pressure.
On November 15, 2022, the Adams administration made busways on Jamaica and Archer avenues permanent after a one-year pilot. The Department of Transportation cut Jamaica Avenue’s busway hours from 24/7 to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, while Archer Avenue remains round-the-clock. The Northern Boulevard bus lane project, stalled for months after Council Member Francisco Moya lobbied against it, finally began installation. Council Members Nantasha Williams and Selvena Brooks-Powers opposed the busways, calling for their elimination and citing business concerns. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and other local officials pushed for even shorter hours. DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez defended the busways, saying, 'strong bus infrastructure is a necessity.' Despite opposition, the city kept some busway hours intact, but caved to business interests, reducing protection for bus riders and vulnerable road users.
-
City Makes Jamaica Busways Permanent But With Shorter Hours; Begins Northern Blvd. Bus Lanes,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-15
Comrie Mentioned in Debate Over Misguided Speed Hump Delays▸Councilmember Rita Joseph blasted DOT for years-long delays on speed hump installations in Flatbush. Twelve sites requested, one approved, none built. Meanwhile, crashes injure cyclists and pedestrians daily. Joseph calls the delay unacceptable. Streets stay dangerous. DOT offers no timeline.
On November 11, 2022, Councilmember Rita Joseph (District 40) issued a public letter to the Department of Transportation, demanding answers for the slow pace of speed hump installations. The matter, titled "#StuckAtDOT: It Takes Years (and Years) to Get a Speed Hump in this City," details Joseph’s frustration: 'In response to a speed hump request, my office was informed by the DOT that...studies are finalized after two years.' Joseph listed twelve locations needing speed humps; only one was approved, none installed. Eight were denied, several remain under review. Her district saw 1,173 crashes this year, injuring 87 cyclists and 141 pedestrians. Joseph, who lost students to traffic violence, calls the delay 'unacceptable.' DOT says it is reviewing her letter. Advocates demand faster action, saying, 'It should never take two years to implement these straight-forward safety measures.'
-
#StuckAtDOT: It Takes Years (and Years) to Get a Speed Hump in this City,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2022-11-11
Richards Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Councilman Robert Holden slammed congestion pricing in a New York Post editorial. He called the plan a disaster for outer-borough residents. Holden argued it would barely cut Manhattan traffic, worsen Bronx air, and punish working families. The editorial dismissed equity concerns.
On November 8, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) was mentioned in a New York Post editorial opposing congestion pricing. The editorial, titled 'Hey, Donovan Richards: It’s actually way more racist to FAVOR congestion pricing,' criticized Queens Borough President Donovan Richards for labeling Holden’s opposition as racist. The piece argued, 'congestion pricing would be a disaster,' claiming it would harm diverse outer-borough residents and worsen air quality in The Bronx by diverting diesel trucks. The editorial cited MTA studies predicting only a 3.1% reduction in Manhattan traffic and framed the plan as an unfair tax on commerce. Holden’s stance reflects ongoing resistance to congestion pricing in the council, with equity and environmental impacts at the center of the debate. No formal council vote or bill was referenced in this editorial.
-
Hey, Donovan Richards: It’s actually way more racist to FAVOR congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-08
Brooks-Powers Collaborates on Safety-Boosting Resident Traffic Enforcement Bill▸Council Member Restler’s bill lets New Yorkers ticket drivers who block bike lanes, bus lanes, sidewalks, or hydrants near schools. Twenty-four council members back it. The bill targets driver impunity and NYPD inaction. Advocates say it protects cyclists and pedestrians.
Bill number not specified. Sponsored by Council Member Lincoln Restler, the bill is advancing in the City Council with 24 out of 51 members signed on as of November 7, 2022. It sits with the Transportation Committee, chaired by Selvena Brooks-Powers, who is working with Restler to streamline the complaint process. The bill’s summary: it allows residents to ticket drivers who block bike lanes, bus lanes, sidewalks, crosswalks, or fire hydrants within 1,320 feet of a school, creating a $175 fine and a civilian complaint protocol. Restler and Brooks-Powers are refining the process to avoid the pitfalls of the city’s anti-idling law, which discourages participation. The NYPD and DOT oppose the bill, citing concerns about neighbor conflict. Advocates support it, highlighting NYPD’s failure to protect vulnerable road users. The bill is seen as a major improvement over the ineffective 311 system.
-
UPDATE: Restler Bill to Allow Residents to Ticket Dangerous Drivers Gaining Steam,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-07
Richards Supports Rezoning Despite Safety Concerns and Opposition▸Queens Community Board 2 voted to block a new SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard. Local leaders demand housing, not more cars. They cite danger, pollution, and reckless driving. Council Member Julie Won and Assembly Member González-Rojas back the board. The fight moves to City Planning.
On November 7, 2022, Queens Community Board 2 passed a resolution rejecting a rezoning application for a Lincoln SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard, Woodside. The matter, described as a call for a moratorium on car-related development, pits housing needs against car infrastructure. Council Member Julie Won supported the board, stating, "It should be a neighborhood rezoning instead of spot rezoning... we need to make it safer and more liveable." Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas also opposed the dealership, urging the space be used for affordable housing and highlighting dangerous driving by existing dealerships. Despite Borough President Donovan Richards' support for the rezoning, citing cycling and EV promotion, the application faces strong local resistance. The City Planning Commission now reviews the case, with a City Council vote possible. The board and electeds argue more cars mean more risk for pedestrians and cyclists on a deadly stretch.
-
Woodside Wants Housing, But It’s Likely to Get More SUVs,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-07
Jeep and Nissan Run Light, Crash Hard in Queens▸Two cars tore through a red light on Carson Street. Metal slammed metal. The Nissan driver’s head was crushed. Four others hurt. Sirens cut the dawn. The street lay still, marked by reckless speed and disregard.
A Jeep and a Nissan collided at Carson Street and 219th in Queens. Both vehicles ran the light, according to the police report: 'A Jeep slammed into a Nissan’s front. Both ran the light.' The Nissan’s driver, a 30-year-old man, suffered severe head injuries and was found unconscious. Four other occupants, aged 20 to 24, were also injured, with complaints of back pain and other trauma. The police report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors for both drivers. The Nissan driver wore no seatbelt, but this detail follows the primary driver errors. The crash left the intersection scarred, a stark result of ignoring traffic signals and speeding.
Richards Defends Congestion Pricing Amid Queens Political Spat▸Councilman Holden and Borough President Richards fought online over congestion pricing. Holden called it a tax on workers. Richards fired back, sparking accusations of racism and party betrayal. The dispute exposed deep rifts over street safety and car dominance.
On November 5, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards clashed publicly over the MTA's congestion pricing plan. The dispute, reported by nypost.com, began with Holden calling the plan 'another tax on hardworking New Yorkers' and demanding a referendum. Richards retweeted Holden, suggesting an 'actual Democrat' should replace him, and responded to a supporter with 'Yeah white supremacy.' The exchange escalated, drawing condemnation from other officials. The matter centered on the policy to charge motorists entering Manhattan below 60th Street. Holden joined a bipartisan press conference urging Governor Hochul to let voters decide. The spat revealed sharp divides over congestion pricing, with Holden opposing the plan and Richards defending it. No formal council bill or vote was involved, but the fight highlighted the political and racial tensions surrounding street safety and car use in New York City.
-
Twitter spat between Queens Dems Donovan Richards and Robert Holden turns racial,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-05
Brooks-Powers Supports Safety-Boosting NYC Greenway Master Plan▸City Council passed a bill to map and expand greenways for cyclists and walkers. The plan targets neglected neighborhoods. It demands real infrastructure, not just paint. Advocates say it will open safe routes, cut danger, and connect the city.
On October 27, 2022, the City Council passed a bill requiring a comprehensive master plan for New York City's greenways. The legislation, championed by Council Member Carlina Rivera and supported by Transportation Committee Chair Selvena N. Brooks-Powers (District 31), mandates the city to study, map, and expand greenways—'highways for cyclists and pedestrians, separated from motor vehicle traffic.' The bill focuses on low-income and underserved neighborhoods, with a final plan due by December 2024 and updates every five years. Rivera said, 'All of us are here today because we believe in a future where New Yorkers of all backgrounds... can safely access active transportation.' Brooks-Powers called it 'a real opportunity... to make a profound impact.' Advocates like Jon Orcutt of Bike New York praised the move, urging the city to build 'real infrastructure for cycling.' The bill passed nearly unanimously, signaling strong council support for safer, more equitable streets.
-
Comprehensive NYC Greenway plan for bike, pedestrian infrastructure passes City Council,
amny.com,
Published 2022-10-27
Two Sedans Collide on 228 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 228 Street. Impact hit left side doors of one car and front center of the other. A 9-year-old passenger suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Both drivers were licensed women going straight. Failure to yield caused the crash.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 228 Street. One vehicle was struck on the left side doors, while the other was damaged at the center front end. A 9-year-old male passenger in the right rear seat of one sedan was injured, sustaining neck injuries and whiplash. The passenger was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. Both drivers were licensed women traveling straight ahead. The report lists 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the contributing factor. No other contributing factors were specified. The crash caused significant damage to both vehicles and resulted in injury to the child passenger.
2Sedans Crash After Traffic Control Ignored▸Two sedans collided at 229 Street and 138 Avenue. Both drivers disregarded traffic control. A female driver and her passenger suffered head and hip injuries. Metal twisted. Both victims stayed conscious.
According to the police report, two sedans crashed at the intersection of 229 Street and 138 Avenue in Queens. Both vehicles went straight ahead. Both drivers disregarded traffic control, leading to the collision. The Honda struck the Toyota's front end. The female driver of the Toyota suffered bruising to her hip and upper leg. Her female passenger sustained a head injury. Both were conscious and not ejected. The report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the primary contributing factor. No other factors or victim errors were noted.
Distracted Driver Rear-Ends Stopped Sedan in Queens▸A Honda slammed into a stopped BMW on 228 Street. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, suffered back bruises. Police blamed driver inattention. Metal crumpled. One driver hurt. Both cars damaged.
According to the police report, a rear-end crash happened on 228 Street in Queens. A Honda sedan struck a stopped BMW sedan from behind. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, was injured with back contusions. She was conscious at the scene. Police listed 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the cause. The BMW was stopped in traffic. No other contributing factors were noted. The Honda's right front bumper and the BMW's right rear bumper were damaged in the impact.
Brooks-Powers Supports DOT Accountability and Data Transparency▸Council Member Gale Brewer challenges DOT’s street safety boasts. She questions claims of 750 redesigned intersections. Public data shows far less. Most fixes are signal timing, not real protection. Advocates want proof, not promises. Road deaths remain high. Brewer vows investigation.
On October 5, 2022, Council Member Gale Brewer, chair of the Council's oversight committee, announced plans to investigate the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) street safety claims. Brewer questioned DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez’s assertion that 750 of 1,000 intersections were redesigned, citing public data showing fewer than 400. Brewer said, “I love the idea of using her committee's investigatory power to explore whether the Adams administration has indeed redesigned 750 of the promised 1,000 intersections... or whether it done fewer than that, as the agency's own public data shows.” She confirmed her intent to use committee investigators and hold an oversight hearing. The matter, titled “City Council oversight inquiry into DOT street safety implementation and data transparency,” highlights DOT’s lack of documentation and reliance on signal retiming over physical improvements. Advocates and Brewer demand full transparency and real progress. Road deaths remain high, and the city lags on legal mandates for bus and bike lanes.
-
CM Brewer: ‘I’ll Hold DOT Accountable on Promises and Data’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-10-05
2Queens Sedans Collide on 225 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 225 Street in Queens. One driver made a left turn into the path of another going straight. Both front passengers suffered injuries and shock. Both drivers distracted. Impact hit right side doors and front bumpers.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 225 Street in Queens. One vehicle was making a left turn while the other was traveling straight. The collision impacted the right side doors of the turning vehicle and the front bumper of the other. Two female front-seat passengers were injured, suffering hip and upper leg injuries and whole-body trauma, both experiencing shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors for both drivers. No pedestrians were involved. The crash caused significant vehicle damage and injuries to occupants, highlighting the dangers of distracted driving.
Richards Urges Balancing Transit Equity and QueensWay Park▸Mayor Adams broke ground on QueensWay, a $35 million park project on old rail tracks. Supporters cheer new green space for 330,000 locals. Critics warn it kills hopes for restored train service. The fight pits open space against transit justice in Queens.
On September 16, 2022, Mayor Adams announced the start of the QueensWay project, a $35 million plan to turn a defunct LIRR branch in Queens into a linear park. The first phase includes $5 million for environmental review and $30 million for the Metropolitan Hub. The matter summary states: 'converting a defunct LIRR branch into a Highline-style park in Queens.' Council Member Lynn Schulman supports the park, calling it 'shovel-ready.' Borough President Donovan Richards and Assembly Members Jenifer Rajkumar and David Weprin back both the park and the QueensLink transit proposal. Richards said, 'We need to do both when it comes to making sure that we can enhance our public transportation and also ensuring that our communities have access to open space.' Transit advocates warn the park blocks future rail service, cutting off faster commutes and cleaner air for southern Queens. The MTA previously cited high costs for transit reactivation. The debate continues over whether the right-of-way should serve parks, transit, or both.
-
Mayor Launches First Phase of QueensWay Linear Park — But What About Transit?,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-09-16
City made Jamaica and Archer Avenue busways permanent. Jamaica Avenue hours slashed. Archer stays 24/7. Northern Boulevard bus lanes started after months of delay. Local politicians fought restrictions. Bus riders still face slow trips. City bows to business pressure.
On November 15, 2022, the Adams administration made busways on Jamaica and Archer avenues permanent after a one-year pilot. The Department of Transportation cut Jamaica Avenue’s busway hours from 24/7 to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, while Archer Avenue remains round-the-clock. The Northern Boulevard bus lane project, stalled for months after Council Member Francisco Moya lobbied against it, finally began installation. Council Members Nantasha Williams and Selvena Brooks-Powers opposed the busways, calling for their elimination and citing business concerns. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and other local officials pushed for even shorter hours. DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez defended the busways, saying, 'strong bus infrastructure is a necessity.' Despite opposition, the city kept some busway hours intact, but caved to business interests, reducing protection for bus riders and vulnerable road users.
- City Makes Jamaica Busways Permanent But With Shorter Hours; Begins Northern Blvd. Bus Lanes, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-11-15
Comrie Supports Busway Hour Reductions Against Permanent Busways▸City made Jamaica and Archer Avenue busways permanent. Jamaica Avenue hours slashed. Archer stays 24/7. Northern Boulevard bus lanes started after months of delay. Local politicians fought restrictions. Bus riders still face slow trips. City bows to business pressure.
On November 15, 2022, the Adams administration made busways on Jamaica and Archer avenues permanent after a one-year pilot. The Department of Transportation cut Jamaica Avenue’s busway hours from 24/7 to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, while Archer Avenue remains round-the-clock. The Northern Boulevard bus lane project, stalled for months after Council Member Francisco Moya lobbied against it, finally began installation. Council Members Nantasha Williams and Selvena Brooks-Powers opposed the busways, calling for their elimination and citing business concerns. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and other local officials pushed for even shorter hours. DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez defended the busways, saying, 'strong bus infrastructure is a necessity.' Despite opposition, the city kept some busway hours intact, but caved to business interests, reducing protection for bus riders and vulnerable road users.
-
City Makes Jamaica Busways Permanent But With Shorter Hours; Begins Northern Blvd. Bus Lanes,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-15
Richards Supports Shortened Jamaica Busway Hours▸City made Jamaica and Archer Avenue busways permanent. Jamaica Avenue hours slashed. Archer stays 24/7. Northern Boulevard bus lanes started after months of delay. Local politicians fought restrictions. Bus riders still face slow trips. City bows to business pressure.
On November 15, 2022, the Adams administration made busways on Jamaica and Archer avenues permanent after a one-year pilot. The Department of Transportation cut Jamaica Avenue’s busway hours from 24/7 to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, while Archer Avenue remains round-the-clock. The Northern Boulevard bus lane project, stalled for months after Council Member Francisco Moya lobbied against it, finally began installation. Council Members Nantasha Williams and Selvena Brooks-Powers opposed the busways, calling for their elimination and citing business concerns. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and other local officials pushed for even shorter hours. DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez defended the busways, saying, 'strong bus infrastructure is a necessity.' Despite opposition, the city kept some busway hours intact, but caved to business interests, reducing protection for bus riders and vulnerable road users.
-
City Makes Jamaica Busways Permanent But With Shorter Hours; Begins Northern Blvd. Bus Lanes,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-15
Comrie Mentioned in Debate Over Misguided Speed Hump Delays▸Councilmember Rita Joseph blasted DOT for years-long delays on speed hump installations in Flatbush. Twelve sites requested, one approved, none built. Meanwhile, crashes injure cyclists and pedestrians daily. Joseph calls the delay unacceptable. Streets stay dangerous. DOT offers no timeline.
On November 11, 2022, Councilmember Rita Joseph (District 40) issued a public letter to the Department of Transportation, demanding answers for the slow pace of speed hump installations. The matter, titled "#StuckAtDOT: It Takes Years (and Years) to Get a Speed Hump in this City," details Joseph’s frustration: 'In response to a speed hump request, my office was informed by the DOT that...studies are finalized after two years.' Joseph listed twelve locations needing speed humps; only one was approved, none installed. Eight were denied, several remain under review. Her district saw 1,173 crashes this year, injuring 87 cyclists and 141 pedestrians. Joseph, who lost students to traffic violence, calls the delay 'unacceptable.' DOT says it is reviewing her letter. Advocates demand faster action, saying, 'It should never take two years to implement these straight-forward safety measures.'
-
#StuckAtDOT: It Takes Years (and Years) to Get a Speed Hump in this City,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2022-11-11
Richards Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Councilman Robert Holden slammed congestion pricing in a New York Post editorial. He called the plan a disaster for outer-borough residents. Holden argued it would barely cut Manhattan traffic, worsen Bronx air, and punish working families. The editorial dismissed equity concerns.
On November 8, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) was mentioned in a New York Post editorial opposing congestion pricing. The editorial, titled 'Hey, Donovan Richards: It’s actually way more racist to FAVOR congestion pricing,' criticized Queens Borough President Donovan Richards for labeling Holden’s opposition as racist. The piece argued, 'congestion pricing would be a disaster,' claiming it would harm diverse outer-borough residents and worsen air quality in The Bronx by diverting diesel trucks. The editorial cited MTA studies predicting only a 3.1% reduction in Manhattan traffic and framed the plan as an unfair tax on commerce. Holden’s stance reflects ongoing resistance to congestion pricing in the council, with equity and environmental impacts at the center of the debate. No formal council vote or bill was referenced in this editorial.
-
Hey, Donovan Richards: It’s actually way more racist to FAVOR congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-08
Brooks-Powers Collaborates on Safety-Boosting Resident Traffic Enforcement Bill▸Council Member Restler’s bill lets New Yorkers ticket drivers who block bike lanes, bus lanes, sidewalks, or hydrants near schools. Twenty-four council members back it. The bill targets driver impunity and NYPD inaction. Advocates say it protects cyclists and pedestrians.
Bill number not specified. Sponsored by Council Member Lincoln Restler, the bill is advancing in the City Council with 24 out of 51 members signed on as of November 7, 2022. It sits with the Transportation Committee, chaired by Selvena Brooks-Powers, who is working with Restler to streamline the complaint process. The bill’s summary: it allows residents to ticket drivers who block bike lanes, bus lanes, sidewalks, crosswalks, or fire hydrants within 1,320 feet of a school, creating a $175 fine and a civilian complaint protocol. Restler and Brooks-Powers are refining the process to avoid the pitfalls of the city’s anti-idling law, which discourages participation. The NYPD and DOT oppose the bill, citing concerns about neighbor conflict. Advocates support it, highlighting NYPD’s failure to protect vulnerable road users. The bill is seen as a major improvement over the ineffective 311 system.
-
UPDATE: Restler Bill to Allow Residents to Ticket Dangerous Drivers Gaining Steam,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-07
Richards Supports Rezoning Despite Safety Concerns and Opposition▸Queens Community Board 2 voted to block a new SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard. Local leaders demand housing, not more cars. They cite danger, pollution, and reckless driving. Council Member Julie Won and Assembly Member González-Rojas back the board. The fight moves to City Planning.
On November 7, 2022, Queens Community Board 2 passed a resolution rejecting a rezoning application for a Lincoln SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard, Woodside. The matter, described as a call for a moratorium on car-related development, pits housing needs against car infrastructure. Council Member Julie Won supported the board, stating, "It should be a neighborhood rezoning instead of spot rezoning... we need to make it safer and more liveable." Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas also opposed the dealership, urging the space be used for affordable housing and highlighting dangerous driving by existing dealerships. Despite Borough President Donovan Richards' support for the rezoning, citing cycling and EV promotion, the application faces strong local resistance. The City Planning Commission now reviews the case, with a City Council vote possible. The board and electeds argue more cars mean more risk for pedestrians and cyclists on a deadly stretch.
-
Woodside Wants Housing, But It’s Likely to Get More SUVs,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-07
Jeep and Nissan Run Light, Crash Hard in Queens▸Two cars tore through a red light on Carson Street. Metal slammed metal. The Nissan driver’s head was crushed. Four others hurt. Sirens cut the dawn. The street lay still, marked by reckless speed and disregard.
A Jeep and a Nissan collided at Carson Street and 219th in Queens. Both vehicles ran the light, according to the police report: 'A Jeep slammed into a Nissan’s front. Both ran the light.' The Nissan’s driver, a 30-year-old man, suffered severe head injuries and was found unconscious. Four other occupants, aged 20 to 24, were also injured, with complaints of back pain and other trauma. The police report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors for both drivers. The Nissan driver wore no seatbelt, but this detail follows the primary driver errors. The crash left the intersection scarred, a stark result of ignoring traffic signals and speeding.
Richards Defends Congestion Pricing Amid Queens Political Spat▸Councilman Holden and Borough President Richards fought online over congestion pricing. Holden called it a tax on workers. Richards fired back, sparking accusations of racism and party betrayal. The dispute exposed deep rifts over street safety and car dominance.
On November 5, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards clashed publicly over the MTA's congestion pricing plan. The dispute, reported by nypost.com, began with Holden calling the plan 'another tax on hardworking New Yorkers' and demanding a referendum. Richards retweeted Holden, suggesting an 'actual Democrat' should replace him, and responded to a supporter with 'Yeah white supremacy.' The exchange escalated, drawing condemnation from other officials. The matter centered on the policy to charge motorists entering Manhattan below 60th Street. Holden joined a bipartisan press conference urging Governor Hochul to let voters decide. The spat revealed sharp divides over congestion pricing, with Holden opposing the plan and Richards defending it. No formal council bill or vote was involved, but the fight highlighted the political and racial tensions surrounding street safety and car use in New York City.
-
Twitter spat between Queens Dems Donovan Richards and Robert Holden turns racial,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-05
Brooks-Powers Supports Safety-Boosting NYC Greenway Master Plan▸City Council passed a bill to map and expand greenways for cyclists and walkers. The plan targets neglected neighborhoods. It demands real infrastructure, not just paint. Advocates say it will open safe routes, cut danger, and connect the city.
On October 27, 2022, the City Council passed a bill requiring a comprehensive master plan for New York City's greenways. The legislation, championed by Council Member Carlina Rivera and supported by Transportation Committee Chair Selvena N. Brooks-Powers (District 31), mandates the city to study, map, and expand greenways—'highways for cyclists and pedestrians, separated from motor vehicle traffic.' The bill focuses on low-income and underserved neighborhoods, with a final plan due by December 2024 and updates every five years. Rivera said, 'All of us are here today because we believe in a future where New Yorkers of all backgrounds... can safely access active transportation.' Brooks-Powers called it 'a real opportunity... to make a profound impact.' Advocates like Jon Orcutt of Bike New York praised the move, urging the city to build 'real infrastructure for cycling.' The bill passed nearly unanimously, signaling strong council support for safer, more equitable streets.
-
Comprehensive NYC Greenway plan for bike, pedestrian infrastructure passes City Council,
amny.com,
Published 2022-10-27
Two Sedans Collide on 228 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 228 Street. Impact hit left side doors of one car and front center of the other. A 9-year-old passenger suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Both drivers were licensed women going straight. Failure to yield caused the crash.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 228 Street. One vehicle was struck on the left side doors, while the other was damaged at the center front end. A 9-year-old male passenger in the right rear seat of one sedan was injured, sustaining neck injuries and whiplash. The passenger was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. Both drivers were licensed women traveling straight ahead. The report lists 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the contributing factor. No other contributing factors were specified. The crash caused significant damage to both vehicles and resulted in injury to the child passenger.
2Sedans Crash After Traffic Control Ignored▸Two sedans collided at 229 Street and 138 Avenue. Both drivers disregarded traffic control. A female driver and her passenger suffered head and hip injuries. Metal twisted. Both victims stayed conscious.
According to the police report, two sedans crashed at the intersection of 229 Street and 138 Avenue in Queens. Both vehicles went straight ahead. Both drivers disregarded traffic control, leading to the collision. The Honda struck the Toyota's front end. The female driver of the Toyota suffered bruising to her hip and upper leg. Her female passenger sustained a head injury. Both were conscious and not ejected. The report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the primary contributing factor. No other factors or victim errors were noted.
Distracted Driver Rear-Ends Stopped Sedan in Queens▸A Honda slammed into a stopped BMW on 228 Street. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, suffered back bruises. Police blamed driver inattention. Metal crumpled. One driver hurt. Both cars damaged.
According to the police report, a rear-end crash happened on 228 Street in Queens. A Honda sedan struck a stopped BMW sedan from behind. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, was injured with back contusions. She was conscious at the scene. Police listed 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the cause. The BMW was stopped in traffic. No other contributing factors were noted. The Honda's right front bumper and the BMW's right rear bumper were damaged in the impact.
Brooks-Powers Supports DOT Accountability and Data Transparency▸Council Member Gale Brewer challenges DOT’s street safety boasts. She questions claims of 750 redesigned intersections. Public data shows far less. Most fixes are signal timing, not real protection. Advocates want proof, not promises. Road deaths remain high. Brewer vows investigation.
On October 5, 2022, Council Member Gale Brewer, chair of the Council's oversight committee, announced plans to investigate the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) street safety claims. Brewer questioned DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez’s assertion that 750 of 1,000 intersections were redesigned, citing public data showing fewer than 400. Brewer said, “I love the idea of using her committee's investigatory power to explore whether the Adams administration has indeed redesigned 750 of the promised 1,000 intersections... or whether it done fewer than that, as the agency's own public data shows.” She confirmed her intent to use committee investigators and hold an oversight hearing. The matter, titled “City Council oversight inquiry into DOT street safety implementation and data transparency,” highlights DOT’s lack of documentation and reliance on signal retiming over physical improvements. Advocates and Brewer demand full transparency and real progress. Road deaths remain high, and the city lags on legal mandates for bus and bike lanes.
-
CM Brewer: ‘I’ll Hold DOT Accountable on Promises and Data’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-10-05
2Queens Sedans Collide on 225 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 225 Street in Queens. One driver made a left turn into the path of another going straight. Both front passengers suffered injuries and shock. Both drivers distracted. Impact hit right side doors and front bumpers.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 225 Street in Queens. One vehicle was making a left turn while the other was traveling straight. The collision impacted the right side doors of the turning vehicle and the front bumper of the other. Two female front-seat passengers were injured, suffering hip and upper leg injuries and whole-body trauma, both experiencing shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors for both drivers. No pedestrians were involved. The crash caused significant vehicle damage and injuries to occupants, highlighting the dangers of distracted driving.
Richards Urges Balancing Transit Equity and QueensWay Park▸Mayor Adams broke ground on QueensWay, a $35 million park project on old rail tracks. Supporters cheer new green space for 330,000 locals. Critics warn it kills hopes for restored train service. The fight pits open space against transit justice in Queens.
On September 16, 2022, Mayor Adams announced the start of the QueensWay project, a $35 million plan to turn a defunct LIRR branch in Queens into a linear park. The first phase includes $5 million for environmental review and $30 million for the Metropolitan Hub. The matter summary states: 'converting a defunct LIRR branch into a Highline-style park in Queens.' Council Member Lynn Schulman supports the park, calling it 'shovel-ready.' Borough President Donovan Richards and Assembly Members Jenifer Rajkumar and David Weprin back both the park and the QueensLink transit proposal. Richards said, 'We need to do both when it comes to making sure that we can enhance our public transportation and also ensuring that our communities have access to open space.' Transit advocates warn the park blocks future rail service, cutting off faster commutes and cleaner air for southern Queens. The MTA previously cited high costs for transit reactivation. The debate continues over whether the right-of-way should serve parks, transit, or both.
-
Mayor Launches First Phase of QueensWay Linear Park — But What About Transit?,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-09-16
City made Jamaica and Archer Avenue busways permanent. Jamaica Avenue hours slashed. Archer stays 24/7. Northern Boulevard bus lanes started after months of delay. Local politicians fought restrictions. Bus riders still face slow trips. City bows to business pressure.
On November 15, 2022, the Adams administration made busways on Jamaica and Archer avenues permanent after a one-year pilot. The Department of Transportation cut Jamaica Avenue’s busway hours from 24/7 to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, while Archer Avenue remains round-the-clock. The Northern Boulevard bus lane project, stalled for months after Council Member Francisco Moya lobbied against it, finally began installation. Council Members Nantasha Williams and Selvena Brooks-Powers opposed the busways, calling for their elimination and citing business concerns. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and other local officials pushed for even shorter hours. DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez defended the busways, saying, 'strong bus infrastructure is a necessity.' Despite opposition, the city kept some busway hours intact, but caved to business interests, reducing protection for bus riders and vulnerable road users.
- City Makes Jamaica Busways Permanent But With Shorter Hours; Begins Northern Blvd. Bus Lanes, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-11-15
Richards Supports Shortened Jamaica Busway Hours▸City made Jamaica and Archer Avenue busways permanent. Jamaica Avenue hours slashed. Archer stays 24/7. Northern Boulevard bus lanes started after months of delay. Local politicians fought restrictions. Bus riders still face slow trips. City bows to business pressure.
On November 15, 2022, the Adams administration made busways on Jamaica and Archer avenues permanent after a one-year pilot. The Department of Transportation cut Jamaica Avenue’s busway hours from 24/7 to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, while Archer Avenue remains round-the-clock. The Northern Boulevard bus lane project, stalled for months after Council Member Francisco Moya lobbied against it, finally began installation. Council Members Nantasha Williams and Selvena Brooks-Powers opposed the busways, calling for their elimination and citing business concerns. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and other local officials pushed for even shorter hours. DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez defended the busways, saying, 'strong bus infrastructure is a necessity.' Despite opposition, the city kept some busway hours intact, but caved to business interests, reducing protection for bus riders and vulnerable road users.
-
City Makes Jamaica Busways Permanent But With Shorter Hours; Begins Northern Blvd. Bus Lanes,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-15
Comrie Mentioned in Debate Over Misguided Speed Hump Delays▸Councilmember Rita Joseph blasted DOT for years-long delays on speed hump installations in Flatbush. Twelve sites requested, one approved, none built. Meanwhile, crashes injure cyclists and pedestrians daily. Joseph calls the delay unacceptable. Streets stay dangerous. DOT offers no timeline.
On November 11, 2022, Councilmember Rita Joseph (District 40) issued a public letter to the Department of Transportation, demanding answers for the slow pace of speed hump installations. The matter, titled "#StuckAtDOT: It Takes Years (and Years) to Get a Speed Hump in this City," details Joseph’s frustration: 'In response to a speed hump request, my office was informed by the DOT that...studies are finalized after two years.' Joseph listed twelve locations needing speed humps; only one was approved, none installed. Eight were denied, several remain under review. Her district saw 1,173 crashes this year, injuring 87 cyclists and 141 pedestrians. Joseph, who lost students to traffic violence, calls the delay 'unacceptable.' DOT says it is reviewing her letter. Advocates demand faster action, saying, 'It should never take two years to implement these straight-forward safety measures.'
-
#StuckAtDOT: It Takes Years (and Years) to Get a Speed Hump in this City,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2022-11-11
Richards Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Councilman Robert Holden slammed congestion pricing in a New York Post editorial. He called the plan a disaster for outer-borough residents. Holden argued it would barely cut Manhattan traffic, worsen Bronx air, and punish working families. The editorial dismissed equity concerns.
On November 8, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) was mentioned in a New York Post editorial opposing congestion pricing. The editorial, titled 'Hey, Donovan Richards: It’s actually way more racist to FAVOR congestion pricing,' criticized Queens Borough President Donovan Richards for labeling Holden’s opposition as racist. The piece argued, 'congestion pricing would be a disaster,' claiming it would harm diverse outer-borough residents and worsen air quality in The Bronx by diverting diesel trucks. The editorial cited MTA studies predicting only a 3.1% reduction in Manhattan traffic and framed the plan as an unfair tax on commerce. Holden’s stance reflects ongoing resistance to congestion pricing in the council, with equity and environmental impacts at the center of the debate. No formal council vote or bill was referenced in this editorial.
-
Hey, Donovan Richards: It’s actually way more racist to FAVOR congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-08
Brooks-Powers Collaborates on Safety-Boosting Resident Traffic Enforcement Bill▸Council Member Restler’s bill lets New Yorkers ticket drivers who block bike lanes, bus lanes, sidewalks, or hydrants near schools. Twenty-four council members back it. The bill targets driver impunity and NYPD inaction. Advocates say it protects cyclists and pedestrians.
Bill number not specified. Sponsored by Council Member Lincoln Restler, the bill is advancing in the City Council with 24 out of 51 members signed on as of November 7, 2022. It sits with the Transportation Committee, chaired by Selvena Brooks-Powers, who is working with Restler to streamline the complaint process. The bill’s summary: it allows residents to ticket drivers who block bike lanes, bus lanes, sidewalks, crosswalks, or fire hydrants within 1,320 feet of a school, creating a $175 fine and a civilian complaint protocol. Restler and Brooks-Powers are refining the process to avoid the pitfalls of the city’s anti-idling law, which discourages participation. The NYPD and DOT oppose the bill, citing concerns about neighbor conflict. Advocates support it, highlighting NYPD’s failure to protect vulnerable road users. The bill is seen as a major improvement over the ineffective 311 system.
-
UPDATE: Restler Bill to Allow Residents to Ticket Dangerous Drivers Gaining Steam,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-07
Richards Supports Rezoning Despite Safety Concerns and Opposition▸Queens Community Board 2 voted to block a new SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard. Local leaders demand housing, not more cars. They cite danger, pollution, and reckless driving. Council Member Julie Won and Assembly Member González-Rojas back the board. The fight moves to City Planning.
On November 7, 2022, Queens Community Board 2 passed a resolution rejecting a rezoning application for a Lincoln SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard, Woodside. The matter, described as a call for a moratorium on car-related development, pits housing needs against car infrastructure. Council Member Julie Won supported the board, stating, "It should be a neighborhood rezoning instead of spot rezoning... we need to make it safer and more liveable." Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas also opposed the dealership, urging the space be used for affordable housing and highlighting dangerous driving by existing dealerships. Despite Borough President Donovan Richards' support for the rezoning, citing cycling and EV promotion, the application faces strong local resistance. The City Planning Commission now reviews the case, with a City Council vote possible. The board and electeds argue more cars mean more risk for pedestrians and cyclists on a deadly stretch.
-
Woodside Wants Housing, But It’s Likely to Get More SUVs,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-07
Jeep and Nissan Run Light, Crash Hard in Queens▸Two cars tore through a red light on Carson Street. Metal slammed metal. The Nissan driver’s head was crushed. Four others hurt. Sirens cut the dawn. The street lay still, marked by reckless speed and disregard.
A Jeep and a Nissan collided at Carson Street and 219th in Queens. Both vehicles ran the light, according to the police report: 'A Jeep slammed into a Nissan’s front. Both ran the light.' The Nissan’s driver, a 30-year-old man, suffered severe head injuries and was found unconscious. Four other occupants, aged 20 to 24, were also injured, with complaints of back pain and other trauma. The police report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors for both drivers. The Nissan driver wore no seatbelt, but this detail follows the primary driver errors. The crash left the intersection scarred, a stark result of ignoring traffic signals and speeding.
Richards Defends Congestion Pricing Amid Queens Political Spat▸Councilman Holden and Borough President Richards fought online over congestion pricing. Holden called it a tax on workers. Richards fired back, sparking accusations of racism and party betrayal. The dispute exposed deep rifts over street safety and car dominance.
On November 5, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards clashed publicly over the MTA's congestion pricing plan. The dispute, reported by nypost.com, began with Holden calling the plan 'another tax on hardworking New Yorkers' and demanding a referendum. Richards retweeted Holden, suggesting an 'actual Democrat' should replace him, and responded to a supporter with 'Yeah white supremacy.' The exchange escalated, drawing condemnation from other officials. The matter centered on the policy to charge motorists entering Manhattan below 60th Street. Holden joined a bipartisan press conference urging Governor Hochul to let voters decide. The spat revealed sharp divides over congestion pricing, with Holden opposing the plan and Richards defending it. No formal council bill or vote was involved, but the fight highlighted the political and racial tensions surrounding street safety and car use in New York City.
-
Twitter spat between Queens Dems Donovan Richards and Robert Holden turns racial,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-05
Brooks-Powers Supports Safety-Boosting NYC Greenway Master Plan▸City Council passed a bill to map and expand greenways for cyclists and walkers. The plan targets neglected neighborhoods. It demands real infrastructure, not just paint. Advocates say it will open safe routes, cut danger, and connect the city.
On October 27, 2022, the City Council passed a bill requiring a comprehensive master plan for New York City's greenways. The legislation, championed by Council Member Carlina Rivera and supported by Transportation Committee Chair Selvena N. Brooks-Powers (District 31), mandates the city to study, map, and expand greenways—'highways for cyclists and pedestrians, separated from motor vehicle traffic.' The bill focuses on low-income and underserved neighborhoods, with a final plan due by December 2024 and updates every five years. Rivera said, 'All of us are here today because we believe in a future where New Yorkers of all backgrounds... can safely access active transportation.' Brooks-Powers called it 'a real opportunity... to make a profound impact.' Advocates like Jon Orcutt of Bike New York praised the move, urging the city to build 'real infrastructure for cycling.' The bill passed nearly unanimously, signaling strong council support for safer, more equitable streets.
-
Comprehensive NYC Greenway plan for bike, pedestrian infrastructure passes City Council,
amny.com,
Published 2022-10-27
Two Sedans Collide on 228 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 228 Street. Impact hit left side doors of one car and front center of the other. A 9-year-old passenger suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Both drivers were licensed women going straight. Failure to yield caused the crash.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 228 Street. One vehicle was struck on the left side doors, while the other was damaged at the center front end. A 9-year-old male passenger in the right rear seat of one sedan was injured, sustaining neck injuries and whiplash. The passenger was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. Both drivers were licensed women traveling straight ahead. The report lists 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the contributing factor. No other contributing factors were specified. The crash caused significant damage to both vehicles and resulted in injury to the child passenger.
2Sedans Crash After Traffic Control Ignored▸Two sedans collided at 229 Street and 138 Avenue. Both drivers disregarded traffic control. A female driver and her passenger suffered head and hip injuries. Metal twisted. Both victims stayed conscious.
According to the police report, two sedans crashed at the intersection of 229 Street and 138 Avenue in Queens. Both vehicles went straight ahead. Both drivers disregarded traffic control, leading to the collision. The Honda struck the Toyota's front end. The female driver of the Toyota suffered bruising to her hip and upper leg. Her female passenger sustained a head injury. Both were conscious and not ejected. The report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the primary contributing factor. No other factors or victim errors were noted.
Distracted Driver Rear-Ends Stopped Sedan in Queens▸A Honda slammed into a stopped BMW on 228 Street. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, suffered back bruises. Police blamed driver inattention. Metal crumpled. One driver hurt. Both cars damaged.
According to the police report, a rear-end crash happened on 228 Street in Queens. A Honda sedan struck a stopped BMW sedan from behind. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, was injured with back contusions. She was conscious at the scene. Police listed 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the cause. The BMW was stopped in traffic. No other contributing factors were noted. The Honda's right front bumper and the BMW's right rear bumper were damaged in the impact.
Brooks-Powers Supports DOT Accountability and Data Transparency▸Council Member Gale Brewer challenges DOT’s street safety boasts. She questions claims of 750 redesigned intersections. Public data shows far less. Most fixes are signal timing, not real protection. Advocates want proof, not promises. Road deaths remain high. Brewer vows investigation.
On October 5, 2022, Council Member Gale Brewer, chair of the Council's oversight committee, announced plans to investigate the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) street safety claims. Brewer questioned DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez’s assertion that 750 of 1,000 intersections were redesigned, citing public data showing fewer than 400. Brewer said, “I love the idea of using her committee's investigatory power to explore whether the Adams administration has indeed redesigned 750 of the promised 1,000 intersections... or whether it done fewer than that, as the agency's own public data shows.” She confirmed her intent to use committee investigators and hold an oversight hearing. The matter, titled “City Council oversight inquiry into DOT street safety implementation and data transparency,” highlights DOT’s lack of documentation and reliance on signal retiming over physical improvements. Advocates and Brewer demand full transparency and real progress. Road deaths remain high, and the city lags on legal mandates for bus and bike lanes.
-
CM Brewer: ‘I’ll Hold DOT Accountable on Promises and Data’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-10-05
2Queens Sedans Collide on 225 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 225 Street in Queens. One driver made a left turn into the path of another going straight. Both front passengers suffered injuries and shock. Both drivers distracted. Impact hit right side doors and front bumpers.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 225 Street in Queens. One vehicle was making a left turn while the other was traveling straight. The collision impacted the right side doors of the turning vehicle and the front bumper of the other. Two female front-seat passengers were injured, suffering hip and upper leg injuries and whole-body trauma, both experiencing shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors for both drivers. No pedestrians were involved. The crash caused significant vehicle damage and injuries to occupants, highlighting the dangers of distracted driving.
Richards Urges Balancing Transit Equity and QueensWay Park▸Mayor Adams broke ground on QueensWay, a $35 million park project on old rail tracks. Supporters cheer new green space for 330,000 locals. Critics warn it kills hopes for restored train service. The fight pits open space against transit justice in Queens.
On September 16, 2022, Mayor Adams announced the start of the QueensWay project, a $35 million plan to turn a defunct LIRR branch in Queens into a linear park. The first phase includes $5 million for environmental review and $30 million for the Metropolitan Hub. The matter summary states: 'converting a defunct LIRR branch into a Highline-style park in Queens.' Council Member Lynn Schulman supports the park, calling it 'shovel-ready.' Borough President Donovan Richards and Assembly Members Jenifer Rajkumar and David Weprin back both the park and the QueensLink transit proposal. Richards said, 'We need to do both when it comes to making sure that we can enhance our public transportation and also ensuring that our communities have access to open space.' Transit advocates warn the park blocks future rail service, cutting off faster commutes and cleaner air for southern Queens. The MTA previously cited high costs for transit reactivation. The debate continues over whether the right-of-way should serve parks, transit, or both.
-
Mayor Launches First Phase of QueensWay Linear Park — But What About Transit?,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-09-16
City made Jamaica and Archer Avenue busways permanent. Jamaica Avenue hours slashed. Archer stays 24/7. Northern Boulevard bus lanes started after months of delay. Local politicians fought restrictions. Bus riders still face slow trips. City bows to business pressure.
On November 15, 2022, the Adams administration made busways on Jamaica and Archer avenues permanent after a one-year pilot. The Department of Transportation cut Jamaica Avenue’s busway hours from 24/7 to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, while Archer Avenue remains round-the-clock. The Northern Boulevard bus lane project, stalled for months after Council Member Francisco Moya lobbied against it, finally began installation. Council Members Nantasha Williams and Selvena Brooks-Powers opposed the busways, calling for their elimination and citing business concerns. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and other local officials pushed for even shorter hours. DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez defended the busways, saying, 'strong bus infrastructure is a necessity.' Despite opposition, the city kept some busway hours intact, but caved to business interests, reducing protection for bus riders and vulnerable road users.
- City Makes Jamaica Busways Permanent But With Shorter Hours; Begins Northern Blvd. Bus Lanes, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-11-15
Comrie Mentioned in Debate Over Misguided Speed Hump Delays▸Councilmember Rita Joseph blasted DOT for years-long delays on speed hump installations in Flatbush. Twelve sites requested, one approved, none built. Meanwhile, crashes injure cyclists and pedestrians daily. Joseph calls the delay unacceptable. Streets stay dangerous. DOT offers no timeline.
On November 11, 2022, Councilmember Rita Joseph (District 40) issued a public letter to the Department of Transportation, demanding answers for the slow pace of speed hump installations. The matter, titled "#StuckAtDOT: It Takes Years (and Years) to Get a Speed Hump in this City," details Joseph’s frustration: 'In response to a speed hump request, my office was informed by the DOT that...studies are finalized after two years.' Joseph listed twelve locations needing speed humps; only one was approved, none installed. Eight were denied, several remain under review. Her district saw 1,173 crashes this year, injuring 87 cyclists and 141 pedestrians. Joseph, who lost students to traffic violence, calls the delay 'unacceptable.' DOT says it is reviewing her letter. Advocates demand faster action, saying, 'It should never take two years to implement these straight-forward safety measures.'
-
#StuckAtDOT: It Takes Years (and Years) to Get a Speed Hump in this City,
streetsblog.org,
Published 2022-11-11
Richards Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Councilman Robert Holden slammed congestion pricing in a New York Post editorial. He called the plan a disaster for outer-borough residents. Holden argued it would barely cut Manhattan traffic, worsen Bronx air, and punish working families. The editorial dismissed equity concerns.
On November 8, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) was mentioned in a New York Post editorial opposing congestion pricing. The editorial, titled 'Hey, Donovan Richards: It’s actually way more racist to FAVOR congestion pricing,' criticized Queens Borough President Donovan Richards for labeling Holden’s opposition as racist. The piece argued, 'congestion pricing would be a disaster,' claiming it would harm diverse outer-borough residents and worsen air quality in The Bronx by diverting diesel trucks. The editorial cited MTA studies predicting only a 3.1% reduction in Manhattan traffic and framed the plan as an unfair tax on commerce. Holden’s stance reflects ongoing resistance to congestion pricing in the council, with equity and environmental impacts at the center of the debate. No formal council vote or bill was referenced in this editorial.
-
Hey, Donovan Richards: It’s actually way more racist to FAVOR congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-08
Brooks-Powers Collaborates on Safety-Boosting Resident Traffic Enforcement Bill▸Council Member Restler’s bill lets New Yorkers ticket drivers who block bike lanes, bus lanes, sidewalks, or hydrants near schools. Twenty-four council members back it. The bill targets driver impunity and NYPD inaction. Advocates say it protects cyclists and pedestrians.
Bill number not specified. Sponsored by Council Member Lincoln Restler, the bill is advancing in the City Council with 24 out of 51 members signed on as of November 7, 2022. It sits with the Transportation Committee, chaired by Selvena Brooks-Powers, who is working with Restler to streamline the complaint process. The bill’s summary: it allows residents to ticket drivers who block bike lanes, bus lanes, sidewalks, crosswalks, or fire hydrants within 1,320 feet of a school, creating a $175 fine and a civilian complaint protocol. Restler and Brooks-Powers are refining the process to avoid the pitfalls of the city’s anti-idling law, which discourages participation. The NYPD and DOT oppose the bill, citing concerns about neighbor conflict. Advocates support it, highlighting NYPD’s failure to protect vulnerable road users. The bill is seen as a major improvement over the ineffective 311 system.
-
UPDATE: Restler Bill to Allow Residents to Ticket Dangerous Drivers Gaining Steam,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-07
Richards Supports Rezoning Despite Safety Concerns and Opposition▸Queens Community Board 2 voted to block a new SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard. Local leaders demand housing, not more cars. They cite danger, pollution, and reckless driving. Council Member Julie Won and Assembly Member González-Rojas back the board. The fight moves to City Planning.
On November 7, 2022, Queens Community Board 2 passed a resolution rejecting a rezoning application for a Lincoln SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard, Woodside. The matter, described as a call for a moratorium on car-related development, pits housing needs against car infrastructure. Council Member Julie Won supported the board, stating, "It should be a neighborhood rezoning instead of spot rezoning... we need to make it safer and more liveable." Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas also opposed the dealership, urging the space be used for affordable housing and highlighting dangerous driving by existing dealerships. Despite Borough President Donovan Richards' support for the rezoning, citing cycling and EV promotion, the application faces strong local resistance. The City Planning Commission now reviews the case, with a City Council vote possible. The board and electeds argue more cars mean more risk for pedestrians and cyclists on a deadly stretch.
-
Woodside Wants Housing, But It’s Likely to Get More SUVs,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-07
Jeep and Nissan Run Light, Crash Hard in Queens▸Two cars tore through a red light on Carson Street. Metal slammed metal. The Nissan driver’s head was crushed. Four others hurt. Sirens cut the dawn. The street lay still, marked by reckless speed and disregard.
A Jeep and a Nissan collided at Carson Street and 219th in Queens. Both vehicles ran the light, according to the police report: 'A Jeep slammed into a Nissan’s front. Both ran the light.' The Nissan’s driver, a 30-year-old man, suffered severe head injuries and was found unconscious. Four other occupants, aged 20 to 24, were also injured, with complaints of back pain and other trauma. The police report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors for both drivers. The Nissan driver wore no seatbelt, but this detail follows the primary driver errors. The crash left the intersection scarred, a stark result of ignoring traffic signals and speeding.
Richards Defends Congestion Pricing Amid Queens Political Spat▸Councilman Holden and Borough President Richards fought online over congestion pricing. Holden called it a tax on workers. Richards fired back, sparking accusations of racism and party betrayal. The dispute exposed deep rifts over street safety and car dominance.
On November 5, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards clashed publicly over the MTA's congestion pricing plan. The dispute, reported by nypost.com, began with Holden calling the plan 'another tax on hardworking New Yorkers' and demanding a referendum. Richards retweeted Holden, suggesting an 'actual Democrat' should replace him, and responded to a supporter with 'Yeah white supremacy.' The exchange escalated, drawing condemnation from other officials. The matter centered on the policy to charge motorists entering Manhattan below 60th Street. Holden joined a bipartisan press conference urging Governor Hochul to let voters decide. The spat revealed sharp divides over congestion pricing, with Holden opposing the plan and Richards defending it. No formal council bill or vote was involved, but the fight highlighted the political and racial tensions surrounding street safety and car use in New York City.
-
Twitter spat between Queens Dems Donovan Richards and Robert Holden turns racial,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-05
Brooks-Powers Supports Safety-Boosting NYC Greenway Master Plan▸City Council passed a bill to map and expand greenways for cyclists and walkers. The plan targets neglected neighborhoods. It demands real infrastructure, not just paint. Advocates say it will open safe routes, cut danger, and connect the city.
On October 27, 2022, the City Council passed a bill requiring a comprehensive master plan for New York City's greenways. The legislation, championed by Council Member Carlina Rivera and supported by Transportation Committee Chair Selvena N. Brooks-Powers (District 31), mandates the city to study, map, and expand greenways—'highways for cyclists and pedestrians, separated from motor vehicle traffic.' The bill focuses on low-income and underserved neighborhoods, with a final plan due by December 2024 and updates every five years. Rivera said, 'All of us are here today because we believe in a future where New Yorkers of all backgrounds... can safely access active transportation.' Brooks-Powers called it 'a real opportunity... to make a profound impact.' Advocates like Jon Orcutt of Bike New York praised the move, urging the city to build 'real infrastructure for cycling.' The bill passed nearly unanimously, signaling strong council support for safer, more equitable streets.
-
Comprehensive NYC Greenway plan for bike, pedestrian infrastructure passes City Council,
amny.com,
Published 2022-10-27
Two Sedans Collide on 228 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 228 Street. Impact hit left side doors of one car and front center of the other. A 9-year-old passenger suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Both drivers were licensed women going straight. Failure to yield caused the crash.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 228 Street. One vehicle was struck on the left side doors, while the other was damaged at the center front end. A 9-year-old male passenger in the right rear seat of one sedan was injured, sustaining neck injuries and whiplash. The passenger was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. Both drivers were licensed women traveling straight ahead. The report lists 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the contributing factor. No other contributing factors were specified. The crash caused significant damage to both vehicles and resulted in injury to the child passenger.
2Sedans Crash After Traffic Control Ignored▸Two sedans collided at 229 Street and 138 Avenue. Both drivers disregarded traffic control. A female driver and her passenger suffered head and hip injuries. Metal twisted. Both victims stayed conscious.
According to the police report, two sedans crashed at the intersection of 229 Street and 138 Avenue in Queens. Both vehicles went straight ahead. Both drivers disregarded traffic control, leading to the collision. The Honda struck the Toyota's front end. The female driver of the Toyota suffered bruising to her hip and upper leg. Her female passenger sustained a head injury. Both were conscious and not ejected. The report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the primary contributing factor. No other factors or victim errors were noted.
Distracted Driver Rear-Ends Stopped Sedan in Queens▸A Honda slammed into a stopped BMW on 228 Street. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, suffered back bruises. Police blamed driver inattention. Metal crumpled. One driver hurt. Both cars damaged.
According to the police report, a rear-end crash happened on 228 Street in Queens. A Honda sedan struck a stopped BMW sedan from behind. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, was injured with back contusions. She was conscious at the scene. Police listed 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the cause. The BMW was stopped in traffic. No other contributing factors were noted. The Honda's right front bumper and the BMW's right rear bumper were damaged in the impact.
Brooks-Powers Supports DOT Accountability and Data Transparency▸Council Member Gale Brewer challenges DOT’s street safety boasts. She questions claims of 750 redesigned intersections. Public data shows far less. Most fixes are signal timing, not real protection. Advocates want proof, not promises. Road deaths remain high. Brewer vows investigation.
On October 5, 2022, Council Member Gale Brewer, chair of the Council's oversight committee, announced plans to investigate the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) street safety claims. Brewer questioned DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez’s assertion that 750 of 1,000 intersections were redesigned, citing public data showing fewer than 400. Brewer said, “I love the idea of using her committee's investigatory power to explore whether the Adams administration has indeed redesigned 750 of the promised 1,000 intersections... or whether it done fewer than that, as the agency's own public data shows.” She confirmed her intent to use committee investigators and hold an oversight hearing. The matter, titled “City Council oversight inquiry into DOT street safety implementation and data transparency,” highlights DOT’s lack of documentation and reliance on signal retiming over physical improvements. Advocates and Brewer demand full transparency and real progress. Road deaths remain high, and the city lags on legal mandates for bus and bike lanes.
-
CM Brewer: ‘I’ll Hold DOT Accountable on Promises and Data’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-10-05
2Queens Sedans Collide on 225 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 225 Street in Queens. One driver made a left turn into the path of another going straight. Both front passengers suffered injuries and shock. Both drivers distracted. Impact hit right side doors and front bumpers.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 225 Street in Queens. One vehicle was making a left turn while the other was traveling straight. The collision impacted the right side doors of the turning vehicle and the front bumper of the other. Two female front-seat passengers were injured, suffering hip and upper leg injuries and whole-body trauma, both experiencing shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors for both drivers. No pedestrians were involved. The crash caused significant vehicle damage and injuries to occupants, highlighting the dangers of distracted driving.
Richards Urges Balancing Transit Equity and QueensWay Park▸Mayor Adams broke ground on QueensWay, a $35 million park project on old rail tracks. Supporters cheer new green space for 330,000 locals. Critics warn it kills hopes for restored train service. The fight pits open space against transit justice in Queens.
On September 16, 2022, Mayor Adams announced the start of the QueensWay project, a $35 million plan to turn a defunct LIRR branch in Queens into a linear park. The first phase includes $5 million for environmental review and $30 million for the Metropolitan Hub. The matter summary states: 'converting a defunct LIRR branch into a Highline-style park in Queens.' Council Member Lynn Schulman supports the park, calling it 'shovel-ready.' Borough President Donovan Richards and Assembly Members Jenifer Rajkumar and David Weprin back both the park and the QueensLink transit proposal. Richards said, 'We need to do both when it comes to making sure that we can enhance our public transportation and also ensuring that our communities have access to open space.' Transit advocates warn the park blocks future rail service, cutting off faster commutes and cleaner air for southern Queens. The MTA previously cited high costs for transit reactivation. The debate continues over whether the right-of-way should serve parks, transit, or both.
-
Mayor Launches First Phase of QueensWay Linear Park — But What About Transit?,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-09-16
Councilmember Rita Joseph blasted DOT for years-long delays on speed hump installations in Flatbush. Twelve sites requested, one approved, none built. Meanwhile, crashes injure cyclists and pedestrians daily. Joseph calls the delay unacceptable. Streets stay dangerous. DOT offers no timeline.
On November 11, 2022, Councilmember Rita Joseph (District 40) issued a public letter to the Department of Transportation, demanding answers for the slow pace of speed hump installations. The matter, titled "#StuckAtDOT: It Takes Years (and Years) to Get a Speed Hump in this City," details Joseph’s frustration: 'In response to a speed hump request, my office was informed by the DOT that...studies are finalized after two years.' Joseph listed twelve locations needing speed humps; only one was approved, none installed. Eight were denied, several remain under review. Her district saw 1,173 crashes this year, injuring 87 cyclists and 141 pedestrians. Joseph, who lost students to traffic violence, calls the delay 'unacceptable.' DOT says it is reviewing her letter. Advocates demand faster action, saying, 'It should never take two years to implement these straight-forward safety measures.'
- #StuckAtDOT: It Takes Years (and Years) to Get a Speed Hump in this City, streetsblog.org, Published 2022-11-11
Richards Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Councilman Robert Holden slammed congestion pricing in a New York Post editorial. He called the plan a disaster for outer-borough residents. Holden argued it would barely cut Manhattan traffic, worsen Bronx air, and punish working families. The editorial dismissed equity concerns.
On November 8, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) was mentioned in a New York Post editorial opposing congestion pricing. The editorial, titled 'Hey, Donovan Richards: It’s actually way more racist to FAVOR congestion pricing,' criticized Queens Borough President Donovan Richards for labeling Holden’s opposition as racist. The piece argued, 'congestion pricing would be a disaster,' claiming it would harm diverse outer-borough residents and worsen air quality in The Bronx by diverting diesel trucks. The editorial cited MTA studies predicting only a 3.1% reduction in Manhattan traffic and framed the plan as an unfair tax on commerce. Holden’s stance reflects ongoing resistance to congestion pricing in the council, with equity and environmental impacts at the center of the debate. No formal council vote or bill was referenced in this editorial.
-
Hey, Donovan Richards: It’s actually way more racist to FAVOR congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-08
Brooks-Powers Collaborates on Safety-Boosting Resident Traffic Enforcement Bill▸Council Member Restler’s bill lets New Yorkers ticket drivers who block bike lanes, bus lanes, sidewalks, or hydrants near schools. Twenty-four council members back it. The bill targets driver impunity and NYPD inaction. Advocates say it protects cyclists and pedestrians.
Bill number not specified. Sponsored by Council Member Lincoln Restler, the bill is advancing in the City Council with 24 out of 51 members signed on as of November 7, 2022. It sits with the Transportation Committee, chaired by Selvena Brooks-Powers, who is working with Restler to streamline the complaint process. The bill’s summary: it allows residents to ticket drivers who block bike lanes, bus lanes, sidewalks, crosswalks, or fire hydrants within 1,320 feet of a school, creating a $175 fine and a civilian complaint protocol. Restler and Brooks-Powers are refining the process to avoid the pitfalls of the city’s anti-idling law, which discourages participation. The NYPD and DOT oppose the bill, citing concerns about neighbor conflict. Advocates support it, highlighting NYPD’s failure to protect vulnerable road users. The bill is seen as a major improvement over the ineffective 311 system.
-
UPDATE: Restler Bill to Allow Residents to Ticket Dangerous Drivers Gaining Steam,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-07
Richards Supports Rezoning Despite Safety Concerns and Opposition▸Queens Community Board 2 voted to block a new SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard. Local leaders demand housing, not more cars. They cite danger, pollution, and reckless driving. Council Member Julie Won and Assembly Member González-Rojas back the board. The fight moves to City Planning.
On November 7, 2022, Queens Community Board 2 passed a resolution rejecting a rezoning application for a Lincoln SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard, Woodside. The matter, described as a call for a moratorium on car-related development, pits housing needs against car infrastructure. Council Member Julie Won supported the board, stating, "It should be a neighborhood rezoning instead of spot rezoning... we need to make it safer and more liveable." Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas also opposed the dealership, urging the space be used for affordable housing and highlighting dangerous driving by existing dealerships. Despite Borough President Donovan Richards' support for the rezoning, citing cycling and EV promotion, the application faces strong local resistance. The City Planning Commission now reviews the case, with a City Council vote possible. The board and electeds argue more cars mean more risk for pedestrians and cyclists on a deadly stretch.
-
Woodside Wants Housing, But It’s Likely to Get More SUVs,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-07
Jeep and Nissan Run Light, Crash Hard in Queens▸Two cars tore through a red light on Carson Street. Metal slammed metal. The Nissan driver’s head was crushed. Four others hurt. Sirens cut the dawn. The street lay still, marked by reckless speed and disregard.
A Jeep and a Nissan collided at Carson Street and 219th in Queens. Both vehicles ran the light, according to the police report: 'A Jeep slammed into a Nissan’s front. Both ran the light.' The Nissan’s driver, a 30-year-old man, suffered severe head injuries and was found unconscious. Four other occupants, aged 20 to 24, were also injured, with complaints of back pain and other trauma. The police report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors for both drivers. The Nissan driver wore no seatbelt, but this detail follows the primary driver errors. The crash left the intersection scarred, a stark result of ignoring traffic signals and speeding.
Richards Defends Congestion Pricing Amid Queens Political Spat▸Councilman Holden and Borough President Richards fought online over congestion pricing. Holden called it a tax on workers. Richards fired back, sparking accusations of racism and party betrayal. The dispute exposed deep rifts over street safety and car dominance.
On November 5, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards clashed publicly over the MTA's congestion pricing plan. The dispute, reported by nypost.com, began with Holden calling the plan 'another tax on hardworking New Yorkers' and demanding a referendum. Richards retweeted Holden, suggesting an 'actual Democrat' should replace him, and responded to a supporter with 'Yeah white supremacy.' The exchange escalated, drawing condemnation from other officials. The matter centered on the policy to charge motorists entering Manhattan below 60th Street. Holden joined a bipartisan press conference urging Governor Hochul to let voters decide. The spat revealed sharp divides over congestion pricing, with Holden opposing the plan and Richards defending it. No formal council bill or vote was involved, but the fight highlighted the political and racial tensions surrounding street safety and car use in New York City.
-
Twitter spat between Queens Dems Donovan Richards and Robert Holden turns racial,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-05
Brooks-Powers Supports Safety-Boosting NYC Greenway Master Plan▸City Council passed a bill to map and expand greenways for cyclists and walkers. The plan targets neglected neighborhoods. It demands real infrastructure, not just paint. Advocates say it will open safe routes, cut danger, and connect the city.
On October 27, 2022, the City Council passed a bill requiring a comprehensive master plan for New York City's greenways. The legislation, championed by Council Member Carlina Rivera and supported by Transportation Committee Chair Selvena N. Brooks-Powers (District 31), mandates the city to study, map, and expand greenways—'highways for cyclists and pedestrians, separated from motor vehicle traffic.' The bill focuses on low-income and underserved neighborhoods, with a final plan due by December 2024 and updates every five years. Rivera said, 'All of us are here today because we believe in a future where New Yorkers of all backgrounds... can safely access active transportation.' Brooks-Powers called it 'a real opportunity... to make a profound impact.' Advocates like Jon Orcutt of Bike New York praised the move, urging the city to build 'real infrastructure for cycling.' The bill passed nearly unanimously, signaling strong council support for safer, more equitable streets.
-
Comprehensive NYC Greenway plan for bike, pedestrian infrastructure passes City Council,
amny.com,
Published 2022-10-27
Two Sedans Collide on 228 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 228 Street. Impact hit left side doors of one car and front center of the other. A 9-year-old passenger suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Both drivers were licensed women going straight. Failure to yield caused the crash.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 228 Street. One vehicle was struck on the left side doors, while the other was damaged at the center front end. A 9-year-old male passenger in the right rear seat of one sedan was injured, sustaining neck injuries and whiplash. The passenger was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. Both drivers were licensed women traveling straight ahead. The report lists 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the contributing factor. No other contributing factors were specified. The crash caused significant damage to both vehicles and resulted in injury to the child passenger.
2Sedans Crash After Traffic Control Ignored▸Two sedans collided at 229 Street and 138 Avenue. Both drivers disregarded traffic control. A female driver and her passenger suffered head and hip injuries. Metal twisted. Both victims stayed conscious.
According to the police report, two sedans crashed at the intersection of 229 Street and 138 Avenue in Queens. Both vehicles went straight ahead. Both drivers disregarded traffic control, leading to the collision. The Honda struck the Toyota's front end. The female driver of the Toyota suffered bruising to her hip and upper leg. Her female passenger sustained a head injury. Both were conscious and not ejected. The report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the primary contributing factor. No other factors or victim errors were noted.
Distracted Driver Rear-Ends Stopped Sedan in Queens▸A Honda slammed into a stopped BMW on 228 Street. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, suffered back bruises. Police blamed driver inattention. Metal crumpled. One driver hurt. Both cars damaged.
According to the police report, a rear-end crash happened on 228 Street in Queens. A Honda sedan struck a stopped BMW sedan from behind. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, was injured with back contusions. She was conscious at the scene. Police listed 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the cause. The BMW was stopped in traffic. No other contributing factors were noted. The Honda's right front bumper and the BMW's right rear bumper were damaged in the impact.
Brooks-Powers Supports DOT Accountability and Data Transparency▸Council Member Gale Brewer challenges DOT’s street safety boasts. She questions claims of 750 redesigned intersections. Public data shows far less. Most fixes are signal timing, not real protection. Advocates want proof, not promises. Road deaths remain high. Brewer vows investigation.
On October 5, 2022, Council Member Gale Brewer, chair of the Council's oversight committee, announced plans to investigate the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) street safety claims. Brewer questioned DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez’s assertion that 750 of 1,000 intersections were redesigned, citing public data showing fewer than 400. Brewer said, “I love the idea of using her committee's investigatory power to explore whether the Adams administration has indeed redesigned 750 of the promised 1,000 intersections... or whether it done fewer than that, as the agency's own public data shows.” She confirmed her intent to use committee investigators and hold an oversight hearing. The matter, titled “City Council oversight inquiry into DOT street safety implementation and data transparency,” highlights DOT’s lack of documentation and reliance on signal retiming over physical improvements. Advocates and Brewer demand full transparency and real progress. Road deaths remain high, and the city lags on legal mandates for bus and bike lanes.
-
CM Brewer: ‘I’ll Hold DOT Accountable on Promises and Data’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-10-05
2Queens Sedans Collide on 225 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 225 Street in Queens. One driver made a left turn into the path of another going straight. Both front passengers suffered injuries and shock. Both drivers distracted. Impact hit right side doors and front bumpers.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 225 Street in Queens. One vehicle was making a left turn while the other was traveling straight. The collision impacted the right side doors of the turning vehicle and the front bumper of the other. Two female front-seat passengers were injured, suffering hip and upper leg injuries and whole-body trauma, both experiencing shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors for both drivers. No pedestrians were involved. The crash caused significant vehicle damage and injuries to occupants, highlighting the dangers of distracted driving.
Richards Urges Balancing Transit Equity and QueensWay Park▸Mayor Adams broke ground on QueensWay, a $35 million park project on old rail tracks. Supporters cheer new green space for 330,000 locals. Critics warn it kills hopes for restored train service. The fight pits open space against transit justice in Queens.
On September 16, 2022, Mayor Adams announced the start of the QueensWay project, a $35 million plan to turn a defunct LIRR branch in Queens into a linear park. The first phase includes $5 million for environmental review and $30 million for the Metropolitan Hub. The matter summary states: 'converting a defunct LIRR branch into a Highline-style park in Queens.' Council Member Lynn Schulman supports the park, calling it 'shovel-ready.' Borough President Donovan Richards and Assembly Members Jenifer Rajkumar and David Weprin back both the park and the QueensLink transit proposal. Richards said, 'We need to do both when it comes to making sure that we can enhance our public transportation and also ensuring that our communities have access to open space.' Transit advocates warn the park blocks future rail service, cutting off faster commutes and cleaner air for southern Queens. The MTA previously cited high costs for transit reactivation. The debate continues over whether the right-of-way should serve parks, transit, or both.
-
Mayor Launches First Phase of QueensWay Linear Park — But What About Transit?,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-09-16
Councilman Robert Holden slammed congestion pricing in a New York Post editorial. He called the plan a disaster for outer-borough residents. Holden argued it would barely cut Manhattan traffic, worsen Bronx air, and punish working families. The editorial dismissed equity concerns.
On November 8, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) was mentioned in a New York Post editorial opposing congestion pricing. The editorial, titled 'Hey, Donovan Richards: It’s actually way more racist to FAVOR congestion pricing,' criticized Queens Borough President Donovan Richards for labeling Holden’s opposition as racist. The piece argued, 'congestion pricing would be a disaster,' claiming it would harm diverse outer-borough residents and worsen air quality in The Bronx by diverting diesel trucks. The editorial cited MTA studies predicting only a 3.1% reduction in Manhattan traffic and framed the plan as an unfair tax on commerce. Holden’s stance reflects ongoing resistance to congestion pricing in the council, with equity and environmental impacts at the center of the debate. No formal council vote or bill was referenced in this editorial.
- Hey, Donovan Richards: It’s actually way more racist to FAVOR congestion pricing, nypost.com, Published 2022-11-08
Brooks-Powers Collaborates on Safety-Boosting Resident Traffic Enforcement Bill▸Council Member Restler’s bill lets New Yorkers ticket drivers who block bike lanes, bus lanes, sidewalks, or hydrants near schools. Twenty-four council members back it. The bill targets driver impunity and NYPD inaction. Advocates say it protects cyclists and pedestrians.
Bill number not specified. Sponsored by Council Member Lincoln Restler, the bill is advancing in the City Council with 24 out of 51 members signed on as of November 7, 2022. It sits with the Transportation Committee, chaired by Selvena Brooks-Powers, who is working with Restler to streamline the complaint process. The bill’s summary: it allows residents to ticket drivers who block bike lanes, bus lanes, sidewalks, crosswalks, or fire hydrants within 1,320 feet of a school, creating a $175 fine and a civilian complaint protocol. Restler and Brooks-Powers are refining the process to avoid the pitfalls of the city’s anti-idling law, which discourages participation. The NYPD and DOT oppose the bill, citing concerns about neighbor conflict. Advocates support it, highlighting NYPD’s failure to protect vulnerable road users. The bill is seen as a major improvement over the ineffective 311 system.
-
UPDATE: Restler Bill to Allow Residents to Ticket Dangerous Drivers Gaining Steam,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-07
Richards Supports Rezoning Despite Safety Concerns and Opposition▸Queens Community Board 2 voted to block a new SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard. Local leaders demand housing, not more cars. They cite danger, pollution, and reckless driving. Council Member Julie Won and Assembly Member González-Rojas back the board. The fight moves to City Planning.
On November 7, 2022, Queens Community Board 2 passed a resolution rejecting a rezoning application for a Lincoln SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard, Woodside. The matter, described as a call for a moratorium on car-related development, pits housing needs against car infrastructure. Council Member Julie Won supported the board, stating, "It should be a neighborhood rezoning instead of spot rezoning... we need to make it safer and more liveable." Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas also opposed the dealership, urging the space be used for affordable housing and highlighting dangerous driving by existing dealerships. Despite Borough President Donovan Richards' support for the rezoning, citing cycling and EV promotion, the application faces strong local resistance. The City Planning Commission now reviews the case, with a City Council vote possible. The board and electeds argue more cars mean more risk for pedestrians and cyclists on a deadly stretch.
-
Woodside Wants Housing, But It’s Likely to Get More SUVs,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-07
Jeep and Nissan Run Light, Crash Hard in Queens▸Two cars tore through a red light on Carson Street. Metal slammed metal. The Nissan driver’s head was crushed. Four others hurt. Sirens cut the dawn. The street lay still, marked by reckless speed and disregard.
A Jeep and a Nissan collided at Carson Street and 219th in Queens. Both vehicles ran the light, according to the police report: 'A Jeep slammed into a Nissan’s front. Both ran the light.' The Nissan’s driver, a 30-year-old man, suffered severe head injuries and was found unconscious. Four other occupants, aged 20 to 24, were also injured, with complaints of back pain and other trauma. The police report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors for both drivers. The Nissan driver wore no seatbelt, but this detail follows the primary driver errors. The crash left the intersection scarred, a stark result of ignoring traffic signals and speeding.
Richards Defends Congestion Pricing Amid Queens Political Spat▸Councilman Holden and Borough President Richards fought online over congestion pricing. Holden called it a tax on workers. Richards fired back, sparking accusations of racism and party betrayal. The dispute exposed deep rifts over street safety and car dominance.
On November 5, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards clashed publicly over the MTA's congestion pricing plan. The dispute, reported by nypost.com, began with Holden calling the plan 'another tax on hardworking New Yorkers' and demanding a referendum. Richards retweeted Holden, suggesting an 'actual Democrat' should replace him, and responded to a supporter with 'Yeah white supremacy.' The exchange escalated, drawing condemnation from other officials. The matter centered on the policy to charge motorists entering Manhattan below 60th Street. Holden joined a bipartisan press conference urging Governor Hochul to let voters decide. The spat revealed sharp divides over congestion pricing, with Holden opposing the plan and Richards defending it. No formal council bill or vote was involved, but the fight highlighted the political and racial tensions surrounding street safety and car use in New York City.
-
Twitter spat between Queens Dems Donovan Richards and Robert Holden turns racial,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-05
Brooks-Powers Supports Safety-Boosting NYC Greenway Master Plan▸City Council passed a bill to map and expand greenways for cyclists and walkers. The plan targets neglected neighborhoods. It demands real infrastructure, not just paint. Advocates say it will open safe routes, cut danger, and connect the city.
On October 27, 2022, the City Council passed a bill requiring a comprehensive master plan for New York City's greenways. The legislation, championed by Council Member Carlina Rivera and supported by Transportation Committee Chair Selvena N. Brooks-Powers (District 31), mandates the city to study, map, and expand greenways—'highways for cyclists and pedestrians, separated from motor vehicle traffic.' The bill focuses on low-income and underserved neighborhoods, with a final plan due by December 2024 and updates every five years. Rivera said, 'All of us are here today because we believe in a future where New Yorkers of all backgrounds... can safely access active transportation.' Brooks-Powers called it 'a real opportunity... to make a profound impact.' Advocates like Jon Orcutt of Bike New York praised the move, urging the city to build 'real infrastructure for cycling.' The bill passed nearly unanimously, signaling strong council support for safer, more equitable streets.
-
Comprehensive NYC Greenway plan for bike, pedestrian infrastructure passes City Council,
amny.com,
Published 2022-10-27
Two Sedans Collide on 228 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 228 Street. Impact hit left side doors of one car and front center of the other. A 9-year-old passenger suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Both drivers were licensed women going straight. Failure to yield caused the crash.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 228 Street. One vehicle was struck on the left side doors, while the other was damaged at the center front end. A 9-year-old male passenger in the right rear seat of one sedan was injured, sustaining neck injuries and whiplash. The passenger was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. Both drivers were licensed women traveling straight ahead. The report lists 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the contributing factor. No other contributing factors were specified. The crash caused significant damage to both vehicles and resulted in injury to the child passenger.
2Sedans Crash After Traffic Control Ignored▸Two sedans collided at 229 Street and 138 Avenue. Both drivers disregarded traffic control. A female driver and her passenger suffered head and hip injuries. Metal twisted. Both victims stayed conscious.
According to the police report, two sedans crashed at the intersection of 229 Street and 138 Avenue in Queens. Both vehicles went straight ahead. Both drivers disregarded traffic control, leading to the collision. The Honda struck the Toyota's front end. The female driver of the Toyota suffered bruising to her hip and upper leg. Her female passenger sustained a head injury. Both were conscious and not ejected. The report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the primary contributing factor. No other factors or victim errors were noted.
Distracted Driver Rear-Ends Stopped Sedan in Queens▸A Honda slammed into a stopped BMW on 228 Street. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, suffered back bruises. Police blamed driver inattention. Metal crumpled. One driver hurt. Both cars damaged.
According to the police report, a rear-end crash happened on 228 Street in Queens. A Honda sedan struck a stopped BMW sedan from behind. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, was injured with back contusions. She was conscious at the scene. Police listed 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the cause. The BMW was stopped in traffic. No other contributing factors were noted. The Honda's right front bumper and the BMW's right rear bumper were damaged in the impact.
Brooks-Powers Supports DOT Accountability and Data Transparency▸Council Member Gale Brewer challenges DOT’s street safety boasts. She questions claims of 750 redesigned intersections. Public data shows far less. Most fixes are signal timing, not real protection. Advocates want proof, not promises. Road deaths remain high. Brewer vows investigation.
On October 5, 2022, Council Member Gale Brewer, chair of the Council's oversight committee, announced plans to investigate the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) street safety claims. Brewer questioned DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez’s assertion that 750 of 1,000 intersections were redesigned, citing public data showing fewer than 400. Brewer said, “I love the idea of using her committee's investigatory power to explore whether the Adams administration has indeed redesigned 750 of the promised 1,000 intersections... or whether it done fewer than that, as the agency's own public data shows.” She confirmed her intent to use committee investigators and hold an oversight hearing. The matter, titled “City Council oversight inquiry into DOT street safety implementation and data transparency,” highlights DOT’s lack of documentation and reliance on signal retiming over physical improvements. Advocates and Brewer demand full transparency and real progress. Road deaths remain high, and the city lags on legal mandates for bus and bike lanes.
-
CM Brewer: ‘I’ll Hold DOT Accountable on Promises and Data’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-10-05
2Queens Sedans Collide on 225 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 225 Street in Queens. One driver made a left turn into the path of another going straight. Both front passengers suffered injuries and shock. Both drivers distracted. Impact hit right side doors and front bumpers.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 225 Street in Queens. One vehicle was making a left turn while the other was traveling straight. The collision impacted the right side doors of the turning vehicle and the front bumper of the other. Two female front-seat passengers were injured, suffering hip and upper leg injuries and whole-body trauma, both experiencing shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors for both drivers. No pedestrians were involved. The crash caused significant vehicle damage and injuries to occupants, highlighting the dangers of distracted driving.
Richards Urges Balancing Transit Equity and QueensWay Park▸Mayor Adams broke ground on QueensWay, a $35 million park project on old rail tracks. Supporters cheer new green space for 330,000 locals. Critics warn it kills hopes for restored train service. The fight pits open space against transit justice in Queens.
On September 16, 2022, Mayor Adams announced the start of the QueensWay project, a $35 million plan to turn a defunct LIRR branch in Queens into a linear park. The first phase includes $5 million for environmental review and $30 million for the Metropolitan Hub. The matter summary states: 'converting a defunct LIRR branch into a Highline-style park in Queens.' Council Member Lynn Schulman supports the park, calling it 'shovel-ready.' Borough President Donovan Richards and Assembly Members Jenifer Rajkumar and David Weprin back both the park and the QueensLink transit proposal. Richards said, 'We need to do both when it comes to making sure that we can enhance our public transportation and also ensuring that our communities have access to open space.' Transit advocates warn the park blocks future rail service, cutting off faster commutes and cleaner air for southern Queens. The MTA previously cited high costs for transit reactivation. The debate continues over whether the right-of-way should serve parks, transit, or both.
-
Mayor Launches First Phase of QueensWay Linear Park — But What About Transit?,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-09-16
Council Member Restler’s bill lets New Yorkers ticket drivers who block bike lanes, bus lanes, sidewalks, or hydrants near schools. Twenty-four council members back it. The bill targets driver impunity and NYPD inaction. Advocates say it protects cyclists and pedestrians.
Bill number not specified. Sponsored by Council Member Lincoln Restler, the bill is advancing in the City Council with 24 out of 51 members signed on as of November 7, 2022. It sits with the Transportation Committee, chaired by Selvena Brooks-Powers, who is working with Restler to streamline the complaint process. The bill’s summary: it allows residents to ticket drivers who block bike lanes, bus lanes, sidewalks, crosswalks, or fire hydrants within 1,320 feet of a school, creating a $175 fine and a civilian complaint protocol. Restler and Brooks-Powers are refining the process to avoid the pitfalls of the city’s anti-idling law, which discourages participation. The NYPD and DOT oppose the bill, citing concerns about neighbor conflict. Advocates support it, highlighting NYPD’s failure to protect vulnerable road users. The bill is seen as a major improvement over the ineffective 311 system.
- UPDATE: Restler Bill to Allow Residents to Ticket Dangerous Drivers Gaining Steam, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-11-07
Richards Supports Rezoning Despite Safety Concerns and Opposition▸Queens Community Board 2 voted to block a new SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard. Local leaders demand housing, not more cars. They cite danger, pollution, and reckless driving. Council Member Julie Won and Assembly Member González-Rojas back the board. The fight moves to City Planning.
On November 7, 2022, Queens Community Board 2 passed a resolution rejecting a rezoning application for a Lincoln SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard, Woodside. The matter, described as a call for a moratorium on car-related development, pits housing needs against car infrastructure. Council Member Julie Won supported the board, stating, "It should be a neighborhood rezoning instead of spot rezoning... we need to make it safer and more liveable." Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas also opposed the dealership, urging the space be used for affordable housing and highlighting dangerous driving by existing dealerships. Despite Borough President Donovan Richards' support for the rezoning, citing cycling and EV promotion, the application faces strong local resistance. The City Planning Commission now reviews the case, with a City Council vote possible. The board and electeds argue more cars mean more risk for pedestrians and cyclists on a deadly stretch.
-
Woodside Wants Housing, But It’s Likely to Get More SUVs,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-11-07
Jeep and Nissan Run Light, Crash Hard in Queens▸Two cars tore through a red light on Carson Street. Metal slammed metal. The Nissan driver’s head was crushed. Four others hurt. Sirens cut the dawn. The street lay still, marked by reckless speed and disregard.
A Jeep and a Nissan collided at Carson Street and 219th in Queens. Both vehicles ran the light, according to the police report: 'A Jeep slammed into a Nissan’s front. Both ran the light.' The Nissan’s driver, a 30-year-old man, suffered severe head injuries and was found unconscious. Four other occupants, aged 20 to 24, were also injured, with complaints of back pain and other trauma. The police report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors for both drivers. The Nissan driver wore no seatbelt, but this detail follows the primary driver errors. The crash left the intersection scarred, a stark result of ignoring traffic signals and speeding.
Richards Defends Congestion Pricing Amid Queens Political Spat▸Councilman Holden and Borough President Richards fought online over congestion pricing. Holden called it a tax on workers. Richards fired back, sparking accusations of racism and party betrayal. The dispute exposed deep rifts over street safety and car dominance.
On November 5, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards clashed publicly over the MTA's congestion pricing plan. The dispute, reported by nypost.com, began with Holden calling the plan 'another tax on hardworking New Yorkers' and demanding a referendum. Richards retweeted Holden, suggesting an 'actual Democrat' should replace him, and responded to a supporter with 'Yeah white supremacy.' The exchange escalated, drawing condemnation from other officials. The matter centered on the policy to charge motorists entering Manhattan below 60th Street. Holden joined a bipartisan press conference urging Governor Hochul to let voters decide. The spat revealed sharp divides over congestion pricing, with Holden opposing the plan and Richards defending it. No formal council bill or vote was involved, but the fight highlighted the political and racial tensions surrounding street safety and car use in New York City.
-
Twitter spat between Queens Dems Donovan Richards and Robert Holden turns racial,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-05
Brooks-Powers Supports Safety-Boosting NYC Greenway Master Plan▸City Council passed a bill to map and expand greenways for cyclists and walkers. The plan targets neglected neighborhoods. It demands real infrastructure, not just paint. Advocates say it will open safe routes, cut danger, and connect the city.
On October 27, 2022, the City Council passed a bill requiring a comprehensive master plan for New York City's greenways. The legislation, championed by Council Member Carlina Rivera and supported by Transportation Committee Chair Selvena N. Brooks-Powers (District 31), mandates the city to study, map, and expand greenways—'highways for cyclists and pedestrians, separated from motor vehicle traffic.' The bill focuses on low-income and underserved neighborhoods, with a final plan due by December 2024 and updates every five years. Rivera said, 'All of us are here today because we believe in a future where New Yorkers of all backgrounds... can safely access active transportation.' Brooks-Powers called it 'a real opportunity... to make a profound impact.' Advocates like Jon Orcutt of Bike New York praised the move, urging the city to build 'real infrastructure for cycling.' The bill passed nearly unanimously, signaling strong council support for safer, more equitable streets.
-
Comprehensive NYC Greenway plan for bike, pedestrian infrastructure passes City Council,
amny.com,
Published 2022-10-27
Two Sedans Collide on 228 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 228 Street. Impact hit left side doors of one car and front center of the other. A 9-year-old passenger suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Both drivers were licensed women going straight. Failure to yield caused the crash.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 228 Street. One vehicle was struck on the left side doors, while the other was damaged at the center front end. A 9-year-old male passenger in the right rear seat of one sedan was injured, sustaining neck injuries and whiplash. The passenger was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. Both drivers were licensed women traveling straight ahead. The report lists 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the contributing factor. No other contributing factors were specified. The crash caused significant damage to both vehicles and resulted in injury to the child passenger.
2Sedans Crash After Traffic Control Ignored▸Two sedans collided at 229 Street and 138 Avenue. Both drivers disregarded traffic control. A female driver and her passenger suffered head and hip injuries. Metal twisted. Both victims stayed conscious.
According to the police report, two sedans crashed at the intersection of 229 Street and 138 Avenue in Queens. Both vehicles went straight ahead. Both drivers disregarded traffic control, leading to the collision. The Honda struck the Toyota's front end. The female driver of the Toyota suffered bruising to her hip and upper leg. Her female passenger sustained a head injury. Both were conscious and not ejected. The report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the primary contributing factor. No other factors or victim errors were noted.
Distracted Driver Rear-Ends Stopped Sedan in Queens▸A Honda slammed into a stopped BMW on 228 Street. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, suffered back bruises. Police blamed driver inattention. Metal crumpled. One driver hurt. Both cars damaged.
According to the police report, a rear-end crash happened on 228 Street in Queens. A Honda sedan struck a stopped BMW sedan from behind. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, was injured with back contusions. She was conscious at the scene. Police listed 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the cause. The BMW was stopped in traffic. No other contributing factors were noted. The Honda's right front bumper and the BMW's right rear bumper were damaged in the impact.
Brooks-Powers Supports DOT Accountability and Data Transparency▸Council Member Gale Brewer challenges DOT’s street safety boasts. She questions claims of 750 redesigned intersections. Public data shows far less. Most fixes are signal timing, not real protection. Advocates want proof, not promises. Road deaths remain high. Brewer vows investigation.
On October 5, 2022, Council Member Gale Brewer, chair of the Council's oversight committee, announced plans to investigate the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) street safety claims. Brewer questioned DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez’s assertion that 750 of 1,000 intersections were redesigned, citing public data showing fewer than 400. Brewer said, “I love the idea of using her committee's investigatory power to explore whether the Adams administration has indeed redesigned 750 of the promised 1,000 intersections... or whether it done fewer than that, as the agency's own public data shows.” She confirmed her intent to use committee investigators and hold an oversight hearing. The matter, titled “City Council oversight inquiry into DOT street safety implementation and data transparency,” highlights DOT’s lack of documentation and reliance on signal retiming over physical improvements. Advocates and Brewer demand full transparency and real progress. Road deaths remain high, and the city lags on legal mandates for bus and bike lanes.
-
CM Brewer: ‘I’ll Hold DOT Accountable on Promises and Data’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-10-05
2Queens Sedans Collide on 225 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 225 Street in Queens. One driver made a left turn into the path of another going straight. Both front passengers suffered injuries and shock. Both drivers distracted. Impact hit right side doors and front bumpers.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 225 Street in Queens. One vehicle was making a left turn while the other was traveling straight. The collision impacted the right side doors of the turning vehicle and the front bumper of the other. Two female front-seat passengers were injured, suffering hip and upper leg injuries and whole-body trauma, both experiencing shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors for both drivers. No pedestrians were involved. The crash caused significant vehicle damage and injuries to occupants, highlighting the dangers of distracted driving.
Richards Urges Balancing Transit Equity and QueensWay Park▸Mayor Adams broke ground on QueensWay, a $35 million park project on old rail tracks. Supporters cheer new green space for 330,000 locals. Critics warn it kills hopes for restored train service. The fight pits open space against transit justice in Queens.
On September 16, 2022, Mayor Adams announced the start of the QueensWay project, a $35 million plan to turn a defunct LIRR branch in Queens into a linear park. The first phase includes $5 million for environmental review and $30 million for the Metropolitan Hub. The matter summary states: 'converting a defunct LIRR branch into a Highline-style park in Queens.' Council Member Lynn Schulman supports the park, calling it 'shovel-ready.' Borough President Donovan Richards and Assembly Members Jenifer Rajkumar and David Weprin back both the park and the QueensLink transit proposal. Richards said, 'We need to do both when it comes to making sure that we can enhance our public transportation and also ensuring that our communities have access to open space.' Transit advocates warn the park blocks future rail service, cutting off faster commutes and cleaner air for southern Queens. The MTA previously cited high costs for transit reactivation. The debate continues over whether the right-of-way should serve parks, transit, or both.
-
Mayor Launches First Phase of QueensWay Linear Park — But What About Transit?,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-09-16
Queens Community Board 2 voted to block a new SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard. Local leaders demand housing, not more cars. They cite danger, pollution, and reckless driving. Council Member Julie Won and Assembly Member González-Rojas back the board. The fight moves to City Planning.
On November 7, 2022, Queens Community Board 2 passed a resolution rejecting a rezoning application for a Lincoln SUV dealership on Northern Boulevard, Woodside. The matter, described as a call for a moratorium on car-related development, pits housing needs against car infrastructure. Council Member Julie Won supported the board, stating, "It should be a neighborhood rezoning instead of spot rezoning... we need to make it safer and more liveable." Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas also opposed the dealership, urging the space be used for affordable housing and highlighting dangerous driving by existing dealerships. Despite Borough President Donovan Richards' support for the rezoning, citing cycling and EV promotion, the application faces strong local resistance. The City Planning Commission now reviews the case, with a City Council vote possible. The board and electeds argue more cars mean more risk for pedestrians and cyclists on a deadly stretch.
- Woodside Wants Housing, But It’s Likely to Get More SUVs, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-11-07
Jeep and Nissan Run Light, Crash Hard in Queens▸Two cars tore through a red light on Carson Street. Metal slammed metal. The Nissan driver’s head was crushed. Four others hurt. Sirens cut the dawn. The street lay still, marked by reckless speed and disregard.
A Jeep and a Nissan collided at Carson Street and 219th in Queens. Both vehicles ran the light, according to the police report: 'A Jeep slammed into a Nissan’s front. Both ran the light.' The Nissan’s driver, a 30-year-old man, suffered severe head injuries and was found unconscious. Four other occupants, aged 20 to 24, were also injured, with complaints of back pain and other trauma. The police report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors for both drivers. The Nissan driver wore no seatbelt, but this detail follows the primary driver errors. The crash left the intersection scarred, a stark result of ignoring traffic signals and speeding.
Richards Defends Congestion Pricing Amid Queens Political Spat▸Councilman Holden and Borough President Richards fought online over congestion pricing. Holden called it a tax on workers. Richards fired back, sparking accusations of racism and party betrayal. The dispute exposed deep rifts over street safety and car dominance.
On November 5, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards clashed publicly over the MTA's congestion pricing plan. The dispute, reported by nypost.com, began with Holden calling the plan 'another tax on hardworking New Yorkers' and demanding a referendum. Richards retweeted Holden, suggesting an 'actual Democrat' should replace him, and responded to a supporter with 'Yeah white supremacy.' The exchange escalated, drawing condemnation from other officials. The matter centered on the policy to charge motorists entering Manhattan below 60th Street. Holden joined a bipartisan press conference urging Governor Hochul to let voters decide. The spat revealed sharp divides over congestion pricing, with Holden opposing the plan and Richards defending it. No formal council bill or vote was involved, but the fight highlighted the political and racial tensions surrounding street safety and car use in New York City.
-
Twitter spat between Queens Dems Donovan Richards and Robert Holden turns racial,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-05
Brooks-Powers Supports Safety-Boosting NYC Greenway Master Plan▸City Council passed a bill to map and expand greenways for cyclists and walkers. The plan targets neglected neighborhoods. It demands real infrastructure, not just paint. Advocates say it will open safe routes, cut danger, and connect the city.
On October 27, 2022, the City Council passed a bill requiring a comprehensive master plan for New York City's greenways. The legislation, championed by Council Member Carlina Rivera and supported by Transportation Committee Chair Selvena N. Brooks-Powers (District 31), mandates the city to study, map, and expand greenways—'highways for cyclists and pedestrians, separated from motor vehicle traffic.' The bill focuses on low-income and underserved neighborhoods, with a final plan due by December 2024 and updates every five years. Rivera said, 'All of us are here today because we believe in a future where New Yorkers of all backgrounds... can safely access active transportation.' Brooks-Powers called it 'a real opportunity... to make a profound impact.' Advocates like Jon Orcutt of Bike New York praised the move, urging the city to build 'real infrastructure for cycling.' The bill passed nearly unanimously, signaling strong council support for safer, more equitable streets.
-
Comprehensive NYC Greenway plan for bike, pedestrian infrastructure passes City Council,
amny.com,
Published 2022-10-27
Two Sedans Collide on 228 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 228 Street. Impact hit left side doors of one car and front center of the other. A 9-year-old passenger suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Both drivers were licensed women going straight. Failure to yield caused the crash.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 228 Street. One vehicle was struck on the left side doors, while the other was damaged at the center front end. A 9-year-old male passenger in the right rear seat of one sedan was injured, sustaining neck injuries and whiplash. The passenger was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. Both drivers were licensed women traveling straight ahead. The report lists 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the contributing factor. No other contributing factors were specified. The crash caused significant damage to both vehicles and resulted in injury to the child passenger.
2Sedans Crash After Traffic Control Ignored▸Two sedans collided at 229 Street and 138 Avenue. Both drivers disregarded traffic control. A female driver and her passenger suffered head and hip injuries. Metal twisted. Both victims stayed conscious.
According to the police report, two sedans crashed at the intersection of 229 Street and 138 Avenue in Queens. Both vehicles went straight ahead. Both drivers disregarded traffic control, leading to the collision. The Honda struck the Toyota's front end. The female driver of the Toyota suffered bruising to her hip and upper leg. Her female passenger sustained a head injury. Both were conscious and not ejected. The report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the primary contributing factor. No other factors or victim errors were noted.
Distracted Driver Rear-Ends Stopped Sedan in Queens▸A Honda slammed into a stopped BMW on 228 Street. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, suffered back bruises. Police blamed driver inattention. Metal crumpled. One driver hurt. Both cars damaged.
According to the police report, a rear-end crash happened on 228 Street in Queens. A Honda sedan struck a stopped BMW sedan from behind. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, was injured with back contusions. She was conscious at the scene. Police listed 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the cause. The BMW was stopped in traffic. No other contributing factors were noted. The Honda's right front bumper and the BMW's right rear bumper were damaged in the impact.
Brooks-Powers Supports DOT Accountability and Data Transparency▸Council Member Gale Brewer challenges DOT’s street safety boasts. She questions claims of 750 redesigned intersections. Public data shows far less. Most fixes are signal timing, not real protection. Advocates want proof, not promises. Road deaths remain high. Brewer vows investigation.
On October 5, 2022, Council Member Gale Brewer, chair of the Council's oversight committee, announced plans to investigate the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) street safety claims. Brewer questioned DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez’s assertion that 750 of 1,000 intersections were redesigned, citing public data showing fewer than 400. Brewer said, “I love the idea of using her committee's investigatory power to explore whether the Adams administration has indeed redesigned 750 of the promised 1,000 intersections... or whether it done fewer than that, as the agency's own public data shows.” She confirmed her intent to use committee investigators and hold an oversight hearing. The matter, titled “City Council oversight inquiry into DOT street safety implementation and data transparency,” highlights DOT’s lack of documentation and reliance on signal retiming over physical improvements. Advocates and Brewer demand full transparency and real progress. Road deaths remain high, and the city lags on legal mandates for bus and bike lanes.
-
CM Brewer: ‘I’ll Hold DOT Accountable on Promises and Data’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-10-05
2Queens Sedans Collide on 225 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 225 Street in Queens. One driver made a left turn into the path of another going straight. Both front passengers suffered injuries and shock. Both drivers distracted. Impact hit right side doors and front bumpers.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 225 Street in Queens. One vehicle was making a left turn while the other was traveling straight. The collision impacted the right side doors of the turning vehicle and the front bumper of the other. Two female front-seat passengers were injured, suffering hip and upper leg injuries and whole-body trauma, both experiencing shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors for both drivers. No pedestrians were involved. The crash caused significant vehicle damage and injuries to occupants, highlighting the dangers of distracted driving.
Richards Urges Balancing Transit Equity and QueensWay Park▸Mayor Adams broke ground on QueensWay, a $35 million park project on old rail tracks. Supporters cheer new green space for 330,000 locals. Critics warn it kills hopes for restored train service. The fight pits open space against transit justice in Queens.
On September 16, 2022, Mayor Adams announced the start of the QueensWay project, a $35 million plan to turn a defunct LIRR branch in Queens into a linear park. The first phase includes $5 million for environmental review and $30 million for the Metropolitan Hub. The matter summary states: 'converting a defunct LIRR branch into a Highline-style park in Queens.' Council Member Lynn Schulman supports the park, calling it 'shovel-ready.' Borough President Donovan Richards and Assembly Members Jenifer Rajkumar and David Weprin back both the park and the QueensLink transit proposal. Richards said, 'We need to do both when it comes to making sure that we can enhance our public transportation and also ensuring that our communities have access to open space.' Transit advocates warn the park blocks future rail service, cutting off faster commutes and cleaner air for southern Queens. The MTA previously cited high costs for transit reactivation. The debate continues over whether the right-of-way should serve parks, transit, or both.
-
Mayor Launches First Phase of QueensWay Linear Park — But What About Transit?,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-09-16
Two cars tore through a red light on Carson Street. Metal slammed metal. The Nissan driver’s head was crushed. Four others hurt. Sirens cut the dawn. The street lay still, marked by reckless speed and disregard.
A Jeep and a Nissan collided at Carson Street and 219th in Queens. Both vehicles ran the light, according to the police report: 'A Jeep slammed into a Nissan’s front. Both ran the light.' The Nissan’s driver, a 30-year-old man, suffered severe head injuries and was found unconscious. Four other occupants, aged 20 to 24, were also injured, with complaints of back pain and other trauma. The police report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors for both drivers. The Nissan driver wore no seatbelt, but this detail follows the primary driver errors. The crash left the intersection scarred, a stark result of ignoring traffic signals and speeding.
Richards Defends Congestion Pricing Amid Queens Political Spat▸Councilman Holden and Borough President Richards fought online over congestion pricing. Holden called it a tax on workers. Richards fired back, sparking accusations of racism and party betrayal. The dispute exposed deep rifts over street safety and car dominance.
On November 5, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards clashed publicly over the MTA's congestion pricing plan. The dispute, reported by nypost.com, began with Holden calling the plan 'another tax on hardworking New Yorkers' and demanding a referendum. Richards retweeted Holden, suggesting an 'actual Democrat' should replace him, and responded to a supporter with 'Yeah white supremacy.' The exchange escalated, drawing condemnation from other officials. The matter centered on the policy to charge motorists entering Manhattan below 60th Street. Holden joined a bipartisan press conference urging Governor Hochul to let voters decide. The spat revealed sharp divides over congestion pricing, with Holden opposing the plan and Richards defending it. No formal council bill or vote was involved, but the fight highlighted the political and racial tensions surrounding street safety and car use in New York City.
-
Twitter spat between Queens Dems Donovan Richards and Robert Holden turns racial,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-11-05
Brooks-Powers Supports Safety-Boosting NYC Greenway Master Plan▸City Council passed a bill to map and expand greenways for cyclists and walkers. The plan targets neglected neighborhoods. It demands real infrastructure, not just paint. Advocates say it will open safe routes, cut danger, and connect the city.
On October 27, 2022, the City Council passed a bill requiring a comprehensive master plan for New York City's greenways. The legislation, championed by Council Member Carlina Rivera and supported by Transportation Committee Chair Selvena N. Brooks-Powers (District 31), mandates the city to study, map, and expand greenways—'highways for cyclists and pedestrians, separated from motor vehicle traffic.' The bill focuses on low-income and underserved neighborhoods, with a final plan due by December 2024 and updates every five years. Rivera said, 'All of us are here today because we believe in a future where New Yorkers of all backgrounds... can safely access active transportation.' Brooks-Powers called it 'a real opportunity... to make a profound impact.' Advocates like Jon Orcutt of Bike New York praised the move, urging the city to build 'real infrastructure for cycling.' The bill passed nearly unanimously, signaling strong council support for safer, more equitable streets.
-
Comprehensive NYC Greenway plan for bike, pedestrian infrastructure passes City Council,
amny.com,
Published 2022-10-27
Two Sedans Collide on 228 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 228 Street. Impact hit left side doors of one car and front center of the other. A 9-year-old passenger suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Both drivers were licensed women going straight. Failure to yield caused the crash.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 228 Street. One vehicle was struck on the left side doors, while the other was damaged at the center front end. A 9-year-old male passenger in the right rear seat of one sedan was injured, sustaining neck injuries and whiplash. The passenger was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. Both drivers were licensed women traveling straight ahead. The report lists 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the contributing factor. No other contributing factors were specified. The crash caused significant damage to both vehicles and resulted in injury to the child passenger.
2Sedans Crash After Traffic Control Ignored▸Two sedans collided at 229 Street and 138 Avenue. Both drivers disregarded traffic control. A female driver and her passenger suffered head and hip injuries. Metal twisted. Both victims stayed conscious.
According to the police report, two sedans crashed at the intersection of 229 Street and 138 Avenue in Queens. Both vehicles went straight ahead. Both drivers disregarded traffic control, leading to the collision. The Honda struck the Toyota's front end. The female driver of the Toyota suffered bruising to her hip and upper leg. Her female passenger sustained a head injury. Both were conscious and not ejected. The report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the primary contributing factor. No other factors or victim errors were noted.
Distracted Driver Rear-Ends Stopped Sedan in Queens▸A Honda slammed into a stopped BMW on 228 Street. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, suffered back bruises. Police blamed driver inattention. Metal crumpled. One driver hurt. Both cars damaged.
According to the police report, a rear-end crash happened on 228 Street in Queens. A Honda sedan struck a stopped BMW sedan from behind. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, was injured with back contusions. She was conscious at the scene. Police listed 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the cause. The BMW was stopped in traffic. No other contributing factors were noted. The Honda's right front bumper and the BMW's right rear bumper were damaged in the impact.
Brooks-Powers Supports DOT Accountability and Data Transparency▸Council Member Gale Brewer challenges DOT’s street safety boasts. She questions claims of 750 redesigned intersections. Public data shows far less. Most fixes are signal timing, not real protection. Advocates want proof, not promises. Road deaths remain high. Brewer vows investigation.
On October 5, 2022, Council Member Gale Brewer, chair of the Council's oversight committee, announced plans to investigate the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) street safety claims. Brewer questioned DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez’s assertion that 750 of 1,000 intersections were redesigned, citing public data showing fewer than 400. Brewer said, “I love the idea of using her committee's investigatory power to explore whether the Adams administration has indeed redesigned 750 of the promised 1,000 intersections... or whether it done fewer than that, as the agency's own public data shows.” She confirmed her intent to use committee investigators and hold an oversight hearing. The matter, titled “City Council oversight inquiry into DOT street safety implementation and data transparency,” highlights DOT’s lack of documentation and reliance on signal retiming over physical improvements. Advocates and Brewer demand full transparency and real progress. Road deaths remain high, and the city lags on legal mandates for bus and bike lanes.
-
CM Brewer: ‘I’ll Hold DOT Accountable on Promises and Data’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-10-05
2Queens Sedans Collide on 225 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 225 Street in Queens. One driver made a left turn into the path of another going straight. Both front passengers suffered injuries and shock. Both drivers distracted. Impact hit right side doors and front bumpers.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 225 Street in Queens. One vehicle was making a left turn while the other was traveling straight. The collision impacted the right side doors of the turning vehicle and the front bumper of the other. Two female front-seat passengers were injured, suffering hip and upper leg injuries and whole-body trauma, both experiencing shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors for both drivers. No pedestrians were involved. The crash caused significant vehicle damage and injuries to occupants, highlighting the dangers of distracted driving.
Richards Urges Balancing Transit Equity and QueensWay Park▸Mayor Adams broke ground on QueensWay, a $35 million park project on old rail tracks. Supporters cheer new green space for 330,000 locals. Critics warn it kills hopes for restored train service. The fight pits open space against transit justice in Queens.
On September 16, 2022, Mayor Adams announced the start of the QueensWay project, a $35 million plan to turn a defunct LIRR branch in Queens into a linear park. The first phase includes $5 million for environmental review and $30 million for the Metropolitan Hub. The matter summary states: 'converting a defunct LIRR branch into a Highline-style park in Queens.' Council Member Lynn Schulman supports the park, calling it 'shovel-ready.' Borough President Donovan Richards and Assembly Members Jenifer Rajkumar and David Weprin back both the park and the QueensLink transit proposal. Richards said, 'We need to do both when it comes to making sure that we can enhance our public transportation and also ensuring that our communities have access to open space.' Transit advocates warn the park blocks future rail service, cutting off faster commutes and cleaner air for southern Queens. The MTA previously cited high costs for transit reactivation. The debate continues over whether the right-of-way should serve parks, transit, or both.
-
Mayor Launches First Phase of QueensWay Linear Park — But What About Transit?,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-09-16
Councilman Holden and Borough President Richards fought online over congestion pricing. Holden called it a tax on workers. Richards fired back, sparking accusations of racism and party betrayal. The dispute exposed deep rifts over street safety and car dominance.
On November 5, 2022, Councilman Robert F. Holden (District 30) and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards clashed publicly over the MTA's congestion pricing plan. The dispute, reported by nypost.com, began with Holden calling the plan 'another tax on hardworking New Yorkers' and demanding a referendum. Richards retweeted Holden, suggesting an 'actual Democrat' should replace him, and responded to a supporter with 'Yeah white supremacy.' The exchange escalated, drawing condemnation from other officials. The matter centered on the policy to charge motorists entering Manhattan below 60th Street. Holden joined a bipartisan press conference urging Governor Hochul to let voters decide. The spat revealed sharp divides over congestion pricing, with Holden opposing the plan and Richards defending it. No formal council bill or vote was involved, but the fight highlighted the political and racial tensions surrounding street safety and car use in New York City.
- Twitter spat between Queens Dems Donovan Richards and Robert Holden turns racial, nypost.com, Published 2022-11-05
Brooks-Powers Supports Safety-Boosting NYC Greenway Master Plan▸City Council passed a bill to map and expand greenways for cyclists and walkers. The plan targets neglected neighborhoods. It demands real infrastructure, not just paint. Advocates say it will open safe routes, cut danger, and connect the city.
On October 27, 2022, the City Council passed a bill requiring a comprehensive master plan for New York City's greenways. The legislation, championed by Council Member Carlina Rivera and supported by Transportation Committee Chair Selvena N. Brooks-Powers (District 31), mandates the city to study, map, and expand greenways—'highways for cyclists and pedestrians, separated from motor vehicle traffic.' The bill focuses on low-income and underserved neighborhoods, with a final plan due by December 2024 and updates every five years. Rivera said, 'All of us are here today because we believe in a future where New Yorkers of all backgrounds... can safely access active transportation.' Brooks-Powers called it 'a real opportunity... to make a profound impact.' Advocates like Jon Orcutt of Bike New York praised the move, urging the city to build 'real infrastructure for cycling.' The bill passed nearly unanimously, signaling strong council support for safer, more equitable streets.
-
Comprehensive NYC Greenway plan for bike, pedestrian infrastructure passes City Council,
amny.com,
Published 2022-10-27
Two Sedans Collide on 228 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 228 Street. Impact hit left side doors of one car and front center of the other. A 9-year-old passenger suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Both drivers were licensed women going straight. Failure to yield caused the crash.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 228 Street. One vehicle was struck on the left side doors, while the other was damaged at the center front end. A 9-year-old male passenger in the right rear seat of one sedan was injured, sustaining neck injuries and whiplash. The passenger was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. Both drivers were licensed women traveling straight ahead. The report lists 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the contributing factor. No other contributing factors were specified. The crash caused significant damage to both vehicles and resulted in injury to the child passenger.
2Sedans Crash After Traffic Control Ignored▸Two sedans collided at 229 Street and 138 Avenue. Both drivers disregarded traffic control. A female driver and her passenger suffered head and hip injuries. Metal twisted. Both victims stayed conscious.
According to the police report, two sedans crashed at the intersection of 229 Street and 138 Avenue in Queens. Both vehicles went straight ahead. Both drivers disregarded traffic control, leading to the collision. The Honda struck the Toyota's front end. The female driver of the Toyota suffered bruising to her hip and upper leg. Her female passenger sustained a head injury. Both were conscious and not ejected. The report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the primary contributing factor. No other factors or victim errors were noted.
Distracted Driver Rear-Ends Stopped Sedan in Queens▸A Honda slammed into a stopped BMW on 228 Street. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, suffered back bruises. Police blamed driver inattention. Metal crumpled. One driver hurt. Both cars damaged.
According to the police report, a rear-end crash happened on 228 Street in Queens. A Honda sedan struck a stopped BMW sedan from behind. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, was injured with back contusions. She was conscious at the scene. Police listed 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the cause. The BMW was stopped in traffic. No other contributing factors were noted. The Honda's right front bumper and the BMW's right rear bumper were damaged in the impact.
Brooks-Powers Supports DOT Accountability and Data Transparency▸Council Member Gale Brewer challenges DOT’s street safety boasts. She questions claims of 750 redesigned intersections. Public data shows far less. Most fixes are signal timing, not real protection. Advocates want proof, not promises. Road deaths remain high. Brewer vows investigation.
On October 5, 2022, Council Member Gale Brewer, chair of the Council's oversight committee, announced plans to investigate the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) street safety claims. Brewer questioned DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez’s assertion that 750 of 1,000 intersections were redesigned, citing public data showing fewer than 400. Brewer said, “I love the idea of using her committee's investigatory power to explore whether the Adams administration has indeed redesigned 750 of the promised 1,000 intersections... or whether it done fewer than that, as the agency's own public data shows.” She confirmed her intent to use committee investigators and hold an oversight hearing. The matter, titled “City Council oversight inquiry into DOT street safety implementation and data transparency,” highlights DOT’s lack of documentation and reliance on signal retiming over physical improvements. Advocates and Brewer demand full transparency and real progress. Road deaths remain high, and the city lags on legal mandates for bus and bike lanes.
-
CM Brewer: ‘I’ll Hold DOT Accountable on Promises and Data’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-10-05
2Queens Sedans Collide on 225 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 225 Street in Queens. One driver made a left turn into the path of another going straight. Both front passengers suffered injuries and shock. Both drivers distracted. Impact hit right side doors and front bumpers.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 225 Street in Queens. One vehicle was making a left turn while the other was traveling straight. The collision impacted the right side doors of the turning vehicle and the front bumper of the other. Two female front-seat passengers were injured, suffering hip and upper leg injuries and whole-body trauma, both experiencing shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors for both drivers. No pedestrians were involved. The crash caused significant vehicle damage and injuries to occupants, highlighting the dangers of distracted driving.
Richards Urges Balancing Transit Equity and QueensWay Park▸Mayor Adams broke ground on QueensWay, a $35 million park project on old rail tracks. Supporters cheer new green space for 330,000 locals. Critics warn it kills hopes for restored train service. The fight pits open space against transit justice in Queens.
On September 16, 2022, Mayor Adams announced the start of the QueensWay project, a $35 million plan to turn a defunct LIRR branch in Queens into a linear park. The first phase includes $5 million for environmental review and $30 million for the Metropolitan Hub. The matter summary states: 'converting a defunct LIRR branch into a Highline-style park in Queens.' Council Member Lynn Schulman supports the park, calling it 'shovel-ready.' Borough President Donovan Richards and Assembly Members Jenifer Rajkumar and David Weprin back both the park and the QueensLink transit proposal. Richards said, 'We need to do both when it comes to making sure that we can enhance our public transportation and also ensuring that our communities have access to open space.' Transit advocates warn the park blocks future rail service, cutting off faster commutes and cleaner air for southern Queens. The MTA previously cited high costs for transit reactivation. The debate continues over whether the right-of-way should serve parks, transit, or both.
-
Mayor Launches First Phase of QueensWay Linear Park — But What About Transit?,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-09-16
City Council passed a bill to map and expand greenways for cyclists and walkers. The plan targets neglected neighborhoods. It demands real infrastructure, not just paint. Advocates say it will open safe routes, cut danger, and connect the city.
On October 27, 2022, the City Council passed a bill requiring a comprehensive master plan for New York City's greenways. The legislation, championed by Council Member Carlina Rivera and supported by Transportation Committee Chair Selvena N. Brooks-Powers (District 31), mandates the city to study, map, and expand greenways—'highways for cyclists and pedestrians, separated from motor vehicle traffic.' The bill focuses on low-income and underserved neighborhoods, with a final plan due by December 2024 and updates every five years. Rivera said, 'All of us are here today because we believe in a future where New Yorkers of all backgrounds... can safely access active transportation.' Brooks-Powers called it 'a real opportunity... to make a profound impact.' Advocates like Jon Orcutt of Bike New York praised the move, urging the city to build 'real infrastructure for cycling.' The bill passed nearly unanimously, signaling strong council support for safer, more equitable streets.
- Comprehensive NYC Greenway plan for bike, pedestrian infrastructure passes City Council, amny.com, Published 2022-10-27
Two Sedans Collide on 228 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 228 Street. Impact hit left side doors of one car and front center of the other. A 9-year-old passenger suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Both drivers were licensed women going straight. Failure to yield caused the crash.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 228 Street. One vehicle was struck on the left side doors, while the other was damaged at the center front end. A 9-year-old male passenger in the right rear seat of one sedan was injured, sustaining neck injuries and whiplash. The passenger was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. Both drivers were licensed women traveling straight ahead. The report lists 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the contributing factor. No other contributing factors were specified. The crash caused significant damage to both vehicles and resulted in injury to the child passenger.
2Sedans Crash After Traffic Control Ignored▸Two sedans collided at 229 Street and 138 Avenue. Both drivers disregarded traffic control. A female driver and her passenger suffered head and hip injuries. Metal twisted. Both victims stayed conscious.
According to the police report, two sedans crashed at the intersection of 229 Street and 138 Avenue in Queens. Both vehicles went straight ahead. Both drivers disregarded traffic control, leading to the collision. The Honda struck the Toyota's front end. The female driver of the Toyota suffered bruising to her hip and upper leg. Her female passenger sustained a head injury. Both were conscious and not ejected. The report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the primary contributing factor. No other factors or victim errors were noted.
Distracted Driver Rear-Ends Stopped Sedan in Queens▸A Honda slammed into a stopped BMW on 228 Street. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, suffered back bruises. Police blamed driver inattention. Metal crumpled. One driver hurt. Both cars damaged.
According to the police report, a rear-end crash happened on 228 Street in Queens. A Honda sedan struck a stopped BMW sedan from behind. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, was injured with back contusions. She was conscious at the scene. Police listed 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the cause. The BMW was stopped in traffic. No other contributing factors were noted. The Honda's right front bumper and the BMW's right rear bumper were damaged in the impact.
Brooks-Powers Supports DOT Accountability and Data Transparency▸Council Member Gale Brewer challenges DOT’s street safety boasts. She questions claims of 750 redesigned intersections. Public data shows far less. Most fixes are signal timing, not real protection. Advocates want proof, not promises. Road deaths remain high. Brewer vows investigation.
On October 5, 2022, Council Member Gale Brewer, chair of the Council's oversight committee, announced plans to investigate the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) street safety claims. Brewer questioned DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez’s assertion that 750 of 1,000 intersections were redesigned, citing public data showing fewer than 400. Brewer said, “I love the idea of using her committee's investigatory power to explore whether the Adams administration has indeed redesigned 750 of the promised 1,000 intersections... or whether it done fewer than that, as the agency's own public data shows.” She confirmed her intent to use committee investigators and hold an oversight hearing. The matter, titled “City Council oversight inquiry into DOT street safety implementation and data transparency,” highlights DOT’s lack of documentation and reliance on signal retiming over physical improvements. Advocates and Brewer demand full transparency and real progress. Road deaths remain high, and the city lags on legal mandates for bus and bike lanes.
-
CM Brewer: ‘I’ll Hold DOT Accountable on Promises and Data’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-10-05
2Queens Sedans Collide on 225 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 225 Street in Queens. One driver made a left turn into the path of another going straight. Both front passengers suffered injuries and shock. Both drivers distracted. Impact hit right side doors and front bumpers.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 225 Street in Queens. One vehicle was making a left turn while the other was traveling straight. The collision impacted the right side doors of the turning vehicle and the front bumper of the other. Two female front-seat passengers were injured, suffering hip and upper leg injuries and whole-body trauma, both experiencing shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors for both drivers. No pedestrians were involved. The crash caused significant vehicle damage and injuries to occupants, highlighting the dangers of distracted driving.
Richards Urges Balancing Transit Equity and QueensWay Park▸Mayor Adams broke ground on QueensWay, a $35 million park project on old rail tracks. Supporters cheer new green space for 330,000 locals. Critics warn it kills hopes for restored train service. The fight pits open space against transit justice in Queens.
On September 16, 2022, Mayor Adams announced the start of the QueensWay project, a $35 million plan to turn a defunct LIRR branch in Queens into a linear park. The first phase includes $5 million for environmental review and $30 million for the Metropolitan Hub. The matter summary states: 'converting a defunct LIRR branch into a Highline-style park in Queens.' Council Member Lynn Schulman supports the park, calling it 'shovel-ready.' Borough President Donovan Richards and Assembly Members Jenifer Rajkumar and David Weprin back both the park and the QueensLink transit proposal. Richards said, 'We need to do both when it comes to making sure that we can enhance our public transportation and also ensuring that our communities have access to open space.' Transit advocates warn the park blocks future rail service, cutting off faster commutes and cleaner air for southern Queens. The MTA previously cited high costs for transit reactivation. The debate continues over whether the right-of-way should serve parks, transit, or both.
-
Mayor Launches First Phase of QueensWay Linear Park — But What About Transit?,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-09-16
Two sedans crashed on 228 Street. Impact hit left side doors of one car and front center of the other. A 9-year-old passenger suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Both drivers were licensed women going straight. Failure to yield caused the crash.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 228 Street. One vehicle was struck on the left side doors, while the other was damaged at the center front end. A 9-year-old male passenger in the right rear seat of one sedan was injured, sustaining neck injuries and whiplash. The passenger was conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. Both drivers were licensed women traveling straight ahead. The report lists 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the contributing factor. No other contributing factors were specified. The crash caused significant damage to both vehicles and resulted in injury to the child passenger.
2Sedans Crash After Traffic Control Ignored▸Two sedans collided at 229 Street and 138 Avenue. Both drivers disregarded traffic control. A female driver and her passenger suffered head and hip injuries. Metal twisted. Both victims stayed conscious.
According to the police report, two sedans crashed at the intersection of 229 Street and 138 Avenue in Queens. Both vehicles went straight ahead. Both drivers disregarded traffic control, leading to the collision. The Honda struck the Toyota's front end. The female driver of the Toyota suffered bruising to her hip and upper leg. Her female passenger sustained a head injury. Both were conscious and not ejected. The report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the primary contributing factor. No other factors or victim errors were noted.
Distracted Driver Rear-Ends Stopped Sedan in Queens▸A Honda slammed into a stopped BMW on 228 Street. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, suffered back bruises. Police blamed driver inattention. Metal crumpled. One driver hurt. Both cars damaged.
According to the police report, a rear-end crash happened on 228 Street in Queens. A Honda sedan struck a stopped BMW sedan from behind. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, was injured with back contusions. She was conscious at the scene. Police listed 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the cause. The BMW was stopped in traffic. No other contributing factors were noted. The Honda's right front bumper and the BMW's right rear bumper were damaged in the impact.
Brooks-Powers Supports DOT Accountability and Data Transparency▸Council Member Gale Brewer challenges DOT’s street safety boasts. She questions claims of 750 redesigned intersections. Public data shows far less. Most fixes are signal timing, not real protection. Advocates want proof, not promises. Road deaths remain high. Brewer vows investigation.
On October 5, 2022, Council Member Gale Brewer, chair of the Council's oversight committee, announced plans to investigate the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) street safety claims. Brewer questioned DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez’s assertion that 750 of 1,000 intersections were redesigned, citing public data showing fewer than 400. Brewer said, “I love the idea of using her committee's investigatory power to explore whether the Adams administration has indeed redesigned 750 of the promised 1,000 intersections... or whether it done fewer than that, as the agency's own public data shows.” She confirmed her intent to use committee investigators and hold an oversight hearing. The matter, titled “City Council oversight inquiry into DOT street safety implementation and data transparency,” highlights DOT’s lack of documentation and reliance on signal retiming over physical improvements. Advocates and Brewer demand full transparency and real progress. Road deaths remain high, and the city lags on legal mandates for bus and bike lanes.
-
CM Brewer: ‘I’ll Hold DOT Accountable on Promises and Data’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-10-05
2Queens Sedans Collide on 225 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 225 Street in Queens. One driver made a left turn into the path of another going straight. Both front passengers suffered injuries and shock. Both drivers distracted. Impact hit right side doors and front bumpers.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 225 Street in Queens. One vehicle was making a left turn while the other was traveling straight. The collision impacted the right side doors of the turning vehicle and the front bumper of the other. Two female front-seat passengers were injured, suffering hip and upper leg injuries and whole-body trauma, both experiencing shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors for both drivers. No pedestrians were involved. The crash caused significant vehicle damage and injuries to occupants, highlighting the dangers of distracted driving.
Richards Urges Balancing Transit Equity and QueensWay Park▸Mayor Adams broke ground on QueensWay, a $35 million park project on old rail tracks. Supporters cheer new green space for 330,000 locals. Critics warn it kills hopes for restored train service. The fight pits open space against transit justice in Queens.
On September 16, 2022, Mayor Adams announced the start of the QueensWay project, a $35 million plan to turn a defunct LIRR branch in Queens into a linear park. The first phase includes $5 million for environmental review and $30 million for the Metropolitan Hub. The matter summary states: 'converting a defunct LIRR branch into a Highline-style park in Queens.' Council Member Lynn Schulman supports the park, calling it 'shovel-ready.' Borough President Donovan Richards and Assembly Members Jenifer Rajkumar and David Weprin back both the park and the QueensLink transit proposal. Richards said, 'We need to do both when it comes to making sure that we can enhance our public transportation and also ensuring that our communities have access to open space.' Transit advocates warn the park blocks future rail service, cutting off faster commutes and cleaner air for southern Queens. The MTA previously cited high costs for transit reactivation. The debate continues over whether the right-of-way should serve parks, transit, or both.
-
Mayor Launches First Phase of QueensWay Linear Park — But What About Transit?,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-09-16
Two sedans collided at 229 Street and 138 Avenue. Both drivers disregarded traffic control. A female driver and her passenger suffered head and hip injuries. Metal twisted. Both victims stayed conscious.
According to the police report, two sedans crashed at the intersection of 229 Street and 138 Avenue in Queens. Both vehicles went straight ahead. Both drivers disregarded traffic control, leading to the collision. The Honda struck the Toyota's front end. The female driver of the Toyota suffered bruising to her hip and upper leg. Her female passenger sustained a head injury. Both were conscious and not ejected. The report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as the primary contributing factor. No other factors or victim errors were noted.
Distracted Driver Rear-Ends Stopped Sedan in Queens▸A Honda slammed into a stopped BMW on 228 Street. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, suffered back bruises. Police blamed driver inattention. Metal crumpled. One driver hurt. Both cars damaged.
According to the police report, a rear-end crash happened on 228 Street in Queens. A Honda sedan struck a stopped BMW sedan from behind. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, was injured with back contusions. She was conscious at the scene. Police listed 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the cause. The BMW was stopped in traffic. No other contributing factors were noted. The Honda's right front bumper and the BMW's right rear bumper were damaged in the impact.
Brooks-Powers Supports DOT Accountability and Data Transparency▸Council Member Gale Brewer challenges DOT’s street safety boasts. She questions claims of 750 redesigned intersections. Public data shows far less. Most fixes are signal timing, not real protection. Advocates want proof, not promises. Road deaths remain high. Brewer vows investigation.
On October 5, 2022, Council Member Gale Brewer, chair of the Council's oversight committee, announced plans to investigate the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) street safety claims. Brewer questioned DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez’s assertion that 750 of 1,000 intersections were redesigned, citing public data showing fewer than 400. Brewer said, “I love the idea of using her committee's investigatory power to explore whether the Adams administration has indeed redesigned 750 of the promised 1,000 intersections... or whether it done fewer than that, as the agency's own public data shows.” She confirmed her intent to use committee investigators and hold an oversight hearing. The matter, titled “City Council oversight inquiry into DOT street safety implementation and data transparency,” highlights DOT’s lack of documentation and reliance on signal retiming over physical improvements. Advocates and Brewer demand full transparency and real progress. Road deaths remain high, and the city lags on legal mandates for bus and bike lanes.
-
CM Brewer: ‘I’ll Hold DOT Accountable on Promises and Data’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-10-05
2Queens Sedans Collide on 225 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 225 Street in Queens. One driver made a left turn into the path of another going straight. Both front passengers suffered injuries and shock. Both drivers distracted. Impact hit right side doors and front bumpers.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 225 Street in Queens. One vehicle was making a left turn while the other was traveling straight. The collision impacted the right side doors of the turning vehicle and the front bumper of the other. Two female front-seat passengers were injured, suffering hip and upper leg injuries and whole-body trauma, both experiencing shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors for both drivers. No pedestrians were involved. The crash caused significant vehicle damage and injuries to occupants, highlighting the dangers of distracted driving.
Richards Urges Balancing Transit Equity and QueensWay Park▸Mayor Adams broke ground on QueensWay, a $35 million park project on old rail tracks. Supporters cheer new green space for 330,000 locals. Critics warn it kills hopes for restored train service. The fight pits open space against transit justice in Queens.
On September 16, 2022, Mayor Adams announced the start of the QueensWay project, a $35 million plan to turn a defunct LIRR branch in Queens into a linear park. The first phase includes $5 million for environmental review and $30 million for the Metropolitan Hub. The matter summary states: 'converting a defunct LIRR branch into a Highline-style park in Queens.' Council Member Lynn Schulman supports the park, calling it 'shovel-ready.' Borough President Donovan Richards and Assembly Members Jenifer Rajkumar and David Weprin back both the park and the QueensLink transit proposal. Richards said, 'We need to do both when it comes to making sure that we can enhance our public transportation and also ensuring that our communities have access to open space.' Transit advocates warn the park blocks future rail service, cutting off faster commutes and cleaner air for southern Queens. The MTA previously cited high costs for transit reactivation. The debate continues over whether the right-of-way should serve parks, transit, or both.
-
Mayor Launches First Phase of QueensWay Linear Park — But What About Transit?,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-09-16
A Honda slammed into a stopped BMW on 228 Street. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, suffered back bruises. Police blamed driver inattention. Metal crumpled. One driver hurt. Both cars damaged.
According to the police report, a rear-end crash happened on 228 Street in Queens. A Honda sedan struck a stopped BMW sedan from behind. The Honda driver, a 25-year-old woman, was injured with back contusions. She was conscious at the scene. Police listed 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the cause. The BMW was stopped in traffic. No other contributing factors were noted. The Honda's right front bumper and the BMW's right rear bumper were damaged in the impact.
Brooks-Powers Supports DOT Accountability and Data Transparency▸Council Member Gale Brewer challenges DOT’s street safety boasts. She questions claims of 750 redesigned intersections. Public data shows far less. Most fixes are signal timing, not real protection. Advocates want proof, not promises. Road deaths remain high. Brewer vows investigation.
On October 5, 2022, Council Member Gale Brewer, chair of the Council's oversight committee, announced plans to investigate the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) street safety claims. Brewer questioned DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez’s assertion that 750 of 1,000 intersections were redesigned, citing public data showing fewer than 400. Brewer said, “I love the idea of using her committee's investigatory power to explore whether the Adams administration has indeed redesigned 750 of the promised 1,000 intersections... or whether it done fewer than that, as the agency's own public data shows.” She confirmed her intent to use committee investigators and hold an oversight hearing. The matter, titled “City Council oversight inquiry into DOT street safety implementation and data transparency,” highlights DOT’s lack of documentation and reliance on signal retiming over physical improvements. Advocates and Brewer demand full transparency and real progress. Road deaths remain high, and the city lags on legal mandates for bus and bike lanes.
-
CM Brewer: ‘I’ll Hold DOT Accountable on Promises and Data’,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-10-05
2Queens Sedans Collide on 225 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 225 Street in Queens. One driver made a left turn into the path of another going straight. Both front passengers suffered injuries and shock. Both drivers distracted. Impact hit right side doors and front bumpers.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 225 Street in Queens. One vehicle was making a left turn while the other was traveling straight. The collision impacted the right side doors of the turning vehicle and the front bumper of the other. Two female front-seat passengers were injured, suffering hip and upper leg injuries and whole-body trauma, both experiencing shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors for both drivers. No pedestrians were involved. The crash caused significant vehicle damage and injuries to occupants, highlighting the dangers of distracted driving.
Richards Urges Balancing Transit Equity and QueensWay Park▸Mayor Adams broke ground on QueensWay, a $35 million park project on old rail tracks. Supporters cheer new green space for 330,000 locals. Critics warn it kills hopes for restored train service. The fight pits open space against transit justice in Queens.
On September 16, 2022, Mayor Adams announced the start of the QueensWay project, a $35 million plan to turn a defunct LIRR branch in Queens into a linear park. The first phase includes $5 million for environmental review and $30 million for the Metropolitan Hub. The matter summary states: 'converting a defunct LIRR branch into a Highline-style park in Queens.' Council Member Lynn Schulman supports the park, calling it 'shovel-ready.' Borough President Donovan Richards and Assembly Members Jenifer Rajkumar and David Weprin back both the park and the QueensLink transit proposal. Richards said, 'We need to do both when it comes to making sure that we can enhance our public transportation and also ensuring that our communities have access to open space.' Transit advocates warn the park blocks future rail service, cutting off faster commutes and cleaner air for southern Queens. The MTA previously cited high costs for transit reactivation. The debate continues over whether the right-of-way should serve parks, transit, or both.
-
Mayor Launches First Phase of QueensWay Linear Park — But What About Transit?,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-09-16
Council Member Gale Brewer challenges DOT’s street safety boasts. She questions claims of 750 redesigned intersections. Public data shows far less. Most fixes are signal timing, not real protection. Advocates want proof, not promises. Road deaths remain high. Brewer vows investigation.
On October 5, 2022, Council Member Gale Brewer, chair of the Council's oversight committee, announced plans to investigate the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) street safety claims. Brewer questioned DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez’s assertion that 750 of 1,000 intersections were redesigned, citing public data showing fewer than 400. Brewer said, “I love the idea of using her committee's investigatory power to explore whether the Adams administration has indeed redesigned 750 of the promised 1,000 intersections... or whether it done fewer than that, as the agency's own public data shows.” She confirmed her intent to use committee investigators and hold an oversight hearing. The matter, titled “City Council oversight inquiry into DOT street safety implementation and data transparency,” highlights DOT’s lack of documentation and reliance on signal retiming over physical improvements. Advocates and Brewer demand full transparency and real progress. Road deaths remain high, and the city lags on legal mandates for bus and bike lanes.
- CM Brewer: ‘I’ll Hold DOT Accountable on Promises and Data’, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-10-05
2Queens Sedans Collide on 225 Street▸Two sedans crashed on 225 Street in Queens. One driver made a left turn into the path of another going straight. Both front passengers suffered injuries and shock. Both drivers distracted. Impact hit right side doors and front bumpers.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 225 Street in Queens. One vehicle was making a left turn while the other was traveling straight. The collision impacted the right side doors of the turning vehicle and the front bumper of the other. Two female front-seat passengers were injured, suffering hip and upper leg injuries and whole-body trauma, both experiencing shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors for both drivers. No pedestrians were involved. The crash caused significant vehicle damage and injuries to occupants, highlighting the dangers of distracted driving.
Richards Urges Balancing Transit Equity and QueensWay Park▸Mayor Adams broke ground on QueensWay, a $35 million park project on old rail tracks. Supporters cheer new green space for 330,000 locals. Critics warn it kills hopes for restored train service. The fight pits open space against transit justice in Queens.
On September 16, 2022, Mayor Adams announced the start of the QueensWay project, a $35 million plan to turn a defunct LIRR branch in Queens into a linear park. The first phase includes $5 million for environmental review and $30 million for the Metropolitan Hub. The matter summary states: 'converting a defunct LIRR branch into a Highline-style park in Queens.' Council Member Lynn Schulman supports the park, calling it 'shovel-ready.' Borough President Donovan Richards and Assembly Members Jenifer Rajkumar and David Weprin back both the park and the QueensLink transit proposal. Richards said, 'We need to do both when it comes to making sure that we can enhance our public transportation and also ensuring that our communities have access to open space.' Transit advocates warn the park blocks future rail service, cutting off faster commutes and cleaner air for southern Queens. The MTA previously cited high costs for transit reactivation. The debate continues over whether the right-of-way should serve parks, transit, or both.
-
Mayor Launches First Phase of QueensWay Linear Park — But What About Transit?,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-09-16
Two sedans crashed on 225 Street in Queens. One driver made a left turn into the path of another going straight. Both front passengers suffered injuries and shock. Both drivers distracted. Impact hit right side doors and front bumpers.
According to the police report, two sedans collided on 225 Street in Queens. One vehicle was making a left turn while the other was traveling straight. The collision impacted the right side doors of the turning vehicle and the front bumper of the other. Two female front-seat passengers were injured, suffering hip and upper leg injuries and whole-body trauma, both experiencing shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report lists driver inattention and distraction as contributing factors for both drivers. No pedestrians were involved. The crash caused significant vehicle damage and injuries to occupants, highlighting the dangers of distracted driving.
Richards Urges Balancing Transit Equity and QueensWay Park▸Mayor Adams broke ground on QueensWay, a $35 million park project on old rail tracks. Supporters cheer new green space for 330,000 locals. Critics warn it kills hopes for restored train service. The fight pits open space against transit justice in Queens.
On September 16, 2022, Mayor Adams announced the start of the QueensWay project, a $35 million plan to turn a defunct LIRR branch in Queens into a linear park. The first phase includes $5 million for environmental review and $30 million for the Metropolitan Hub. The matter summary states: 'converting a defunct LIRR branch into a Highline-style park in Queens.' Council Member Lynn Schulman supports the park, calling it 'shovel-ready.' Borough President Donovan Richards and Assembly Members Jenifer Rajkumar and David Weprin back both the park and the QueensLink transit proposal. Richards said, 'We need to do both when it comes to making sure that we can enhance our public transportation and also ensuring that our communities have access to open space.' Transit advocates warn the park blocks future rail service, cutting off faster commutes and cleaner air for southern Queens. The MTA previously cited high costs for transit reactivation. The debate continues over whether the right-of-way should serve parks, transit, or both.
-
Mayor Launches First Phase of QueensWay Linear Park — But What About Transit?,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-09-16
Mayor Adams broke ground on QueensWay, a $35 million park project on old rail tracks. Supporters cheer new green space for 330,000 locals. Critics warn it kills hopes for restored train service. The fight pits open space against transit justice in Queens.
On September 16, 2022, Mayor Adams announced the start of the QueensWay project, a $35 million plan to turn a defunct LIRR branch in Queens into a linear park. The first phase includes $5 million for environmental review and $30 million for the Metropolitan Hub. The matter summary states: 'converting a defunct LIRR branch into a Highline-style park in Queens.' Council Member Lynn Schulman supports the park, calling it 'shovel-ready.' Borough President Donovan Richards and Assembly Members Jenifer Rajkumar and David Weprin back both the park and the QueensLink transit proposal. Richards said, 'We need to do both when it comes to making sure that we can enhance our public transportation and also ensuring that our communities have access to open space.' Transit advocates warn the park blocks future rail service, cutting off faster commutes and cleaner air for southern Queens. The MTA previously cited high costs for transit reactivation. The debate continues over whether the right-of-way should serve parks, transit, or both.
- Mayor Launches First Phase of QueensWay Linear Park — But What About Transit?, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-09-16