Who’s Injuring and Killing Pedestrians in SD 16?
Ten Dead, Hundreds Hurt—Senator Liu: Streets Still Bleed
SD 16: Jan 1, 2022 - Aug 4, 2025
The Death Count Grows
In Senate District 16, the road does not forgive. In the last 12 months, 10 people died and 1,770 were injured in crashes. Thirty-eight were left with serious injuries—bodies broken, lives changed. The old and the young fall alike. One child dead. Two elders gone. The numbers do not flinch.
Just weeks ago, on July 31, Zhao Feng Zhen, 55, was struck and killed by a Nissan Rogue on Hollis Court Blvd. The driver stayed. Police are still investigating. There is no comfort in the aftermath. Police said, “On Thursday around 2:15 p.m., e-bike rider Zhao Feng Zhen, 55, died after the 62-year-old driver of a 2015 Nissan Rogue struck her while heading south on Hollis Court Blvd. approaching 50th Ave. in Auburndale.”
On July 11, a Q20 bus in Flushing jumped the curb and smashed into a pole. Seven people were hurt. The driver, just 25, told investigators he “misjudged the curb.” Later, video showed he had fallen asleep at the wheel. Investigators found, “After investigators downloaded video from the bus’s onboard cameras, it is now believed he had fallen asleep at the wheel.”
The Pattern: No One Is Safe
SUVs and sedans do most of the killing. In the last three years, SUVs alone took 13 lives and left hundreds more hurt. Trucks, buses, motorcycles, mopeds, and bikes all play their part, but the heaviest toll falls on foot. The old, the young, the ones just trying to cross the street. The sidewalk is no refuge.
What Has Senator John Liu Done?
Senator John Liu has not been silent. He co-sponsored and voted yes on the Stop Super Speeders Act, a bill to force repeat speeders to install speed limiters. He voted to extend school speed zones, protecting children on their way to class. He has backed car-free streets, congestion pricing, and a lower drunk driving threshold. These are steps. They are not enough. The blood on the street says so.
The Call: Demand More
Ten dead in a year. Hundreds more hurt. The crisis is not fate. It is policy. Call Senator Liu. Call your council member. Demand a 20 mph speed limit. Demand action against repeat speeders. Demand streets built for people, not cars.
Do not wait for another name to be added to the count.
Frequently Asked Questions
▸ What is the New York State Senate and how does it work?
▸ Where does SD 16 sit politically?
▸ Which areas are in SD 16?
▸ What types of vehicles caused injuries and deaths to pedestrians in SD 16?
▸ Are these crashes just 'accidents' or are they preventable?
▸ What can local politicians do to make streets safer?
▸ What is CrashCount?
Citations
▸ Citations
- MTA Bus Slams Curb, Injures Seven, CBS New York, Published 2025-07-11
- Two Killed In Separate E-Vehicle Crashes, NY Daily News, Published 2025-08-03
- Bus Jumps Curb, Eight Injured In Flushing, ABC7, Published 2025-07-11
- Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4776236 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-04
- File S 4045, Open States, Published 2025-06-11
- Flash Flood Traps Cars On Expressway, ABC7, Published 2025-07-31
- Everyone Wants to Fix 14th Street, New York Magazine - Curbed, Published 2025-07-29
- MTA Bus Slams Curb, Injures Seven, CBS New York, Published 2025-07-11
- E-Bike Battery Blast Kills Woman In Queens, New York Post, Published 2025-07-09
- Car-Free Streets are Good For Business, Yet Another Report Shows, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2024-11-18
- Bus Advocates Renew Push For Flatbush Avenue Bus Lane Despite Mayor’s Lack of Support, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2024-07-10
- City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2024-06-06
- Drunk driving crackdown: NYC launches aggressive enforcement campaign for New Year’s weekend, amny.com, Published 2023-12-28
Fix the Problem
District 16
38-50 Bell Blvd. Suite C, Bayside, NY 11361
Room 915, Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY 12247
Other Representatives
District 25
159-16 Union Turnpike, Flushing, NY 11366
Room 941, Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY 12248
District 20
136-21 Latimer Place, 1D, Flushing, NY 11354
718-888-8747
250 Broadway, Suite 1808, New York, NY 10007
212-788-7259
▸ Other Geographies
SD 16 Senate District 16 sits in Queens, Precinct 109, District 20, AD 25.
It contains Murray Hill-Broadway Flushing, East Flushing, Queensboro Hill, Flushing-Willets Point, Kissena Park, Kew Gardens Hills, Pomonok-Electchester-Hillcrest, Fresh Meadows-Utopia, Mount Hebron & Cedar Grove Cemeteries, Cunningham Park, Auburndale, Bayside, Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Queens CB81, Queens CB8, Queens CB7, Queens CB11.
▸ See also
Traffic Safety Timeline for Senate District 16
2Three Vehicles Strike Pedestrian on Slick Expressway▸A man lay on Clearview Expressway. Three cars struck him. His chest crushed, life ended there. Another man behind the wheel, pinned and broken. Steel and rain, speed and error. The road did not forgive.
According to the police report, a 56-year-old man was killed on the northbound Clearview Expressway after being struck by three vehicles. The report states, 'A man lay in the road. Three cars struck. His chest crushed. He died there.' Another 56-year-old man, driving one of the vehicles, was injured and pinned, suffering chest injuries described as 'crush injuries.' The police report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as contributing factors, along with 'Pavement Slippery.' These driver errors—specifically following too closely—are cited as direct contributors to the crash. The narrative highlights the systemic danger posed by multiple vehicles traveling straight ahead on a slick roadway, with no mention of pedestrian error as a contributing factor. The deadly sequence unfolded on a rain-slicked expressway, where human error and hazardous conditions combined with fatal results.
Flatbed Driver Strikes Pedestrian Off Expressway▸A flatbed truck rolled west on the Long Island Expressway. Its right front bumper struck a 65-year-old man lying off the roadway. Blood pooled. Death came before dawn. Driver inattention, police say, left the man unseen and unspared.
A 65-year-old man was killed when a flatbed truck traveling westbound on the Long Island Expressway struck him with its right front bumper, according to the police report. The incident occurred off the roadway, with the pedestrian described as 'not in roadway' and 'not at intersection.' The police report states, 'Two flatbeds passed. One did not see. The right front bumper struck his head.' The victim suffered fatal head injuries and died at the scene. The primary contributing factor cited in the police report is 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' No driver errors beyond inattention are listed. The report does not cite any pedestrian behavior as a contributing factor. The focus remains on the truck driver's failure to notice the man lying off the road, resulting in a fatal collision.
Distracted SUV Driver Kills Pedestrian on Van Wyck▸A distracted SUV driver veered south on Van Wyck Expressway, slamming head-on into a man standing near a parked flatbed. The impact crushed his body. He died there, under the cold morning sky, another life ended by driver inattention.
A 41-year-old man was killed on the Van Wyck Expressway when a southbound SUV struck him head-on as he stood near a parked flatbed, according to the police report. The crash occurred at 11:35 a.m. The report states the SUV driver was 'distracted' and that 'alcohol was involved.' The pedestrian was not at an intersection and was engaged in 'other actions in roadway,' but the police report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the primary contributing factor. The SUV's right front bumper delivered the fatal blow, crushing the man's body. The police narrative describes the victim's death as immediate, with his body 'crumpled beneath the wheels.' No contributing factors are attributed to the pedestrian. The data underscores the lethal consequences of driver distraction and impairment.
Woman Crushed to Death in Sedan on Expressway▸A woman, 32, died crushed in the back seat of a sedan on the Long Island Expressway. The car bore no damage. The road was silent. Her body remained where the night left it, unmoved, unmarked, a life ended in stillness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old woman was killed while riding as a rear passenger in a sedan traveling eastbound on the Long Island Expressway. The report states she died of crush injuries and was not ejected from the vehicle. The narrative notes, 'No ejection. No skid marks. The car showed no damage. The road was silent. The body stayed where the night left it.' Police list the contributing factor as 'Unspecified.' No driver errors such as speeding, distraction, or failure to yield are cited in the available data. The vehicle, a 2019 Volkswagen sedan, had no visible damage and was reported to be going straight ahead at the time of the crash. The report does not mention any victim behavior as a contributing factor. The cause of the fatal crush injuries remains unexplained in the official account, leaving only the stark facts of loss and unanswered danger.
John Liu Supports Safety Boosting Car Free Streets▸City data shows open streets thrive. Storefronts fill up. Pedestrians and cyclists bring life and cash. Cars do not. Vacancy rates drop where traffic is banned. Volunteers keep these corridors alive, but city support lags behind their success.
On November 18, 2024, the Department of City Planning released a report titled 'Storefront Activity in NYC Neighborhoods.' The analysis, covered by Streetsblog NYC, finds that open streets—car-free corridors—have about half the vacant storefronts of car-filled streets. The report states: 'vibrant public spaces are key to the success of local businesses.' City officials like Ya-Ting Liu, chief public realm officer, and volunteers such as Alex Morano and Brent Bovenzi, praised the program's impact. Bovenzi noted, 'the program is shrinking because too much of the burden falls upon volunteer labor.' The Open Streets program, now permanent, covers over 130 locations but relies heavily on volunteers. Advocates urge the city to invest more, as the data shows people-centric design drives economic recovery and safer, more vibrant neighborhoods.
-
Car-Free Streets are Good For Business, Yet Another Report Shows,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-11-18
Inexperienced Driver Slams Sedan Head-On, Passenger Bleeds▸A young driver lost control northbound on Van Wyck Expressway. The sedan crashed head-on. A 19-year-old woman in the back suffered severe head bleeding. Four people rode in the car. The airbag burst. The night stayed silent.
A sedan traveling northbound on Van Wyck Expressway crashed head-on, injuring a 19-year-old woman seated in the left rear. According to the police report, the vehicle was a 2017 Infiniti carrying four occupants. The report states the collision resulted in the rear passenger suffering 'severe bleeding' from the head, with the airbag deploying on impact. The police report explicitly lists 'Driver Inexperience' as a contributing factor in the crash. No other contributing factors related to victim behavior are cited. The driver was described as young, and the car's center front end sustained significant damage. The report provides no details on external conditions or actions by other road users. The focus remains on the inexperience of the driver and the resulting injury to the passenger.
Moped Rider Struck by Left-Turning SUV in Queens▸A moped slammed into an SUV’s side on Goethals Avenue. The 26-year-old rider crumpled, blood pooling from his leg. He wore a helmet. The SUV turned left. Sirens echoed. The city’s danger pressed in, steel against flesh.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on Goethals Avenue near 162nd Street in Queens at 1:30 p.m. when a moped traveling straight struck the left side of a station wagon/SUV making a left turn. The 26-year-old moped rider suffered severe lacerations to his leg and was conscious at the scene. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as a contributing factor, underscoring the SUV driver's error in turning left across the moped’s path. The moped rider was wearing a helmet, as noted in the report. The narrative details, 'The moped hit first, straight into the SUV’s side. The rider, 26, crumpled on impact. Blood ran from his leg. He wore a helmet. She turned left. He had a permit.' The data makes clear the systemic risk when drivers fail to yield to vulnerable road users.
Speeding Sedan Flips, Teen Ejected Dead▸A sedan sped down Cross Island Parkway. It flipped. Six inside. A 17-year-old boy in back, no belt, thrown out. His body broke. Sirens cut the dark. Unsafe speed killed him.
According to the police report, a 2014 Nissan sedan with six occupants crashed on Cross Island Parkway while heading south. The report states, 'A 2014 Nissan, six inside, hit speed and flipped.' The sedan overturned. A 17-year-old male passenger in the left rear seat, unbelted, was ejected and killed. The police list 'Unsafe Speed' as the primary contributing factor. The narrative reads, 'A 17-year-old boy in the back, no belt, thrown clear. Whole body broken.' No other contributing factors are cited for the victim. The crash left one dead, marking another life lost to speed.
Toyota Strikes Woman Crossing With Signal▸A Toyota’s bumper slammed into a woman crossing 71st Avenue with the light. Blood streaked her face. She stayed upright, conscious, wounded. The signal turned green. The street stayed red. Steel met flesh at the intersection. The city kept moving.
According to the police report, a Toyota’s left front bumper struck a 37-year-old woman as she crossed 71st Avenue near Parsons Boulevard. The report states she was crossing with the signal at the intersection when the collision occurred. The impact caused severe bleeding to her face, but she remained conscious at the scene. The narrative describes blood running down her face after the crash. The police report does not list any contributing factors for the driver, but the point of impact and the pedestrian’s lawful crossing with the signal highlight a failure of the driver to yield to a pedestrian in the crosswalk. No evidence in the report suggests any pedestrian error. The crash underscores the persistent danger faced by people on foot at city intersections.
Car Passes Too Close, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian▸A westbound car swept past an 80-year-old man on 48th Avenue, its bumper slamming into his head. Blood pooled on the pavement. He stayed conscious, wounded and cut. The street held no intersection, only danger and steel.
According to the police report, an 80-year-old pedestrian was walking with traffic along 48th Avenue near 206th Street at dusk when a westbound car 'passed too close.' The vehicle's right front bumper struck the man's head, causing severe lacerations and bleeding. The report notes that the pedestrian remained conscious at the scene. The crash did not occur at an intersection. The primary contributing factor cited is 'Passing Too Closely,' a clear driver error. The report does not list any pedestrian behavior as a contributing factor. The narrative documents the impact, the injuries, and the absence of intersection controls, underscoring the peril faced by those on foot when drivers fail to maintain safe distance.
Moped Rider Killed in High-Speed Queens Crash▸A 21-year-old moped passenger died on 73rd Avenue, thrown from the seat, head striking asphalt. No helmet. Speed too high. Evening light fading. The crash left the street silent, the body still, the danger plain.
A deadly collision unfolded at the corner of 73rd Avenue and 184th Street in Queens. According to the police report, a moped traveling east struck the center front end of an SUV heading north. The 21-year-old male passenger on the moped was ejected, suffering fatal head injuries. The report states, 'Speed too high,' and lists 'Unsafe Speed' as the primary contributing factor. The narrative describes the rider flying off the moped and striking his head on the pavement, with no helmet present. The crash occurred as daylight faded, underscoring the risks when speed overrides control. The police report does not cite any victim behavior as a contributing factor, focusing instead on the excessive speed that led to the fatal impact.
Improper Lane Use Sends Motorcyclist Flying▸A northbound Suzuki motorcycle struck a merging car on Van Wyck Expressway. The 28-year-old rider, helmeted, was ejected and left bleeding on the pavement. The crash tore his body. Shock set in. The highway roared on. He lay still.
According to the police report, a Suzuki motorcycle traveling northbound on Van Wyck Expressway collided with a car that was merging. The crash occurred at 4 p.m. The 28-year-old rider, who was wearing a helmet, was ejected from the motorcycle and suffered severe lacerations to his entire body. The report states the rider was left in shock and motionless on the pavement. Police cite 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as the contributing factor in the crash. The data makes clear that improper lane usage played a direct role in the violent collision. The rider's helmet use is noted in the report, but only after the primary driver error is established. No contributing factors are attributed to the merging car or to the victim beyond the cited lane usage.
2Van Slams Into Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard▸A van struck a Ford SUV near 39th Avenue. A woman in front suffered a head wound. A young man in back could not move his leg. Blood pooled. Engines cooled. Both passengers remained trapped by their belts.
According to the police report, a van collided with a Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard near 39th Avenue in Queens. The crash left two passengers in the SUV injured: a 49-year-old woman in the front seat suffered head injuries, while a 21-year-old man in the rear seat sustained crush injuries to his lower leg. The report describes, 'The woman in front took the blow to her head. The young man behind could not move his leg. Belts held them in place. Blood pooled. Engines cooled.' Both vehicles were traveling straight ahead at the time of impact. The police report lists contributing factors as 'Unspecified' for both injured passengers and does not cite any specific driver error. No mention is made of victim behavior as a contributing factor. The collision underscores the vulnerability of vehicle occupants in crashes involving larger vehicles.
Liu Supports Flatbush Bus Lane Advocacy Campaign▸Transit advocates and unions demand a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. Mayor Adams stalls. Council Members Hudson and Joseph back the plan. Riders wait. Buses crawl. Working-class New Yorkers bear the brunt. The city delays. Streets stay dangerous. Justice deferred.
On July 10, 2024, a coalition of transit advocates and labor unions renewed calls for a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. The campaign, not tied to a specific council bill, has drawn support from Council Members Crystal Hudson and Rita Joseph. The matter, described as a 'no-brainer solution,' highlights slow bus speeds—often under 5 mph—and the urgent need for safer, faster transit. Jolyse Race of Riders Alliance stressed the economic justice at stake, noting bus riders earn half as much as car owners. Mayor Eric Adams has withheld support, citing community engagement and raising concerns about gentrification. The Department of Transportation's plans have stalled under his administration. Healthcare workers and union leaders spoke of missed shifts and unreliable service. Advocates now plan to survey bus riders to show support. No formal safety analysis was provided, but the campaign centers the needs of vulnerable bus riders and pedestrians.
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Bus Advocates Renew Push For Flatbush Avenue Bus Lane Despite Mayor’s Lack of Support,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-07-10
Distracted Driver Turns, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian Head-On▸A Toyota sedan turned left on 32nd Avenue and struck a 77-year-old woman crossing with the light. The car’s front bumper caught her head-on. She bled from the head but stayed conscious. Driver inattention marked the crash.
According to the police report, a 77-year-old woman was crossing 32nd Avenue at an intersection, walking with the signal, when a Toyota sedan making a left turn struck her head-on. The report states the vehicle’s front bumper hit her directly, causing severe bleeding from her head. The woman remained conscious at the scene. Police cite 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the primary contributing factor. The driver was reportedly distracted at the time of the collision. The police narrative confirms the pedestrian was crossing with the light, emphasizing that driver error—specifically distraction—led to the impact. No contributing factors are attributed to the pedestrian’s actions.
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Open Streets Permit Reforms▸City hall wants to strip red tape from open streets. The plan slashes insurance demands and trains new groups. Advocates say high costs and paperwork choke car-free events. The move could revive lost corridors and let more New Yorkers reclaim the road.
On June 18, 2024, Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu released a report proposing major reforms to New York City's open streets program. The plan, highlighted in the report 'Realm of Possibility,' aims to 'lift some of the bureaucratic and cost hurdles faced by the largely volunteer open streets groups.' Key elements include lowering or waiving liability insurance for small events, standardizing maintenance agreements, and launching a 'Public Space Academy' to train organizers. Jim Burke, organizer for 34th Avenue, called for removing barriers to make the program equitable. Gib Veconi of Prospect Heights Neighborhood Development Council and Jackson Chabot of Open Plans both praised the reforms, citing burdensome permit processes and high costs as threats to open streets. The proposal responds to advocates' warnings that city policies have stifled car-free spaces, risking the loss of vital corridors for pedestrians and cyclists.
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Someday, You May be Able to Activate Open Streets with Fewer City Hurdles,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-18
SUV Turns Left, Kills 63-Year-Old Cyclist in Queens▸A Ford SUV turned left at Bowne Street and 41st Avenue. A woman on a bike, age sixty-three, pedaled west. Steel struck flesh. She flew, her head hit pavement. She died alone, her bicycle twisted beside her.
According to the police report, a Ford SUV was making a left turn at the corner of 41st Avenue and Bowne Street in Queens when it struck a 63-year-old woman riding her bicycle westbound. The report states the SUV's driver was inattentive or distracted at the moment of impact. The cyclist was ejected from her bike, suffering fatal head injuries. The narrative notes, 'Her head struck pavement. She died there, alone on the asphalt, her bike crumpled beside her.' The contributing factor listed is 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' No contributing factors are attributed to the cyclist. The collision underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to pay attention, especially during turning movements at intersections.
Liu Opposes IOU Plan Criticizing Congestion Pricing Pause▸Albany lawmakers shut down a last-ditch MTA funding plan after Governor Hochul paused congestion pricing. No replacement for the lost $1 billion. Transit riders and street users face uncertainty. Lawmakers call the move reckless. The city waits. Danger lingers.
On June 7, 2024, the New York State legislative session ended without passing a replacement funding plan for the MTA after Governor Kathy Hochul paused congestion pricing. The matter, described as 'Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,' left the MTA without the $1 billion annual revenue congestion pricing would have provided. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins announced the session’s close without a deal. Lawmakers including State Sen. Andrew Gounardes, Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, State Sen. John Liu, Assemblyman Harvey Epstein, and Assemblyman Tony Simone criticized the governor’s decision and the proposed IOU bailout. Gounardes said, 'I cannot in good conscience ratify a decision that will eliminate a significant, dedicated revenue source for the MTA’s capital plan.' The pause leaves the city’s transit future—and the safety of those who rely on it—uncertain.
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Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2024-06-07
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Top city officials broke ranks with Mayor Adams. They demanded congestion pricing after Governor Hochul’s sudden halt. MTA board members, planners, and transit chiefs warned of lost funding and stalled projects. They called the suspension a blow to transit and public safety.
On June 6, 2024, New York City officials issued strong statements supporting congestion pricing after Governor Hochul suspended the plan. The matter, titled 'City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,' saw Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi, MTA board member Midori Valdivia, City Planning Chair Dan Garodnick, DOT Chief of Staff Ryan Lynch, and public space czar Ya-Ting Liu all speak out. Valdivia warned, 'today it was announced, without MTA Board consultation, the cancellation of projects such as the Second Avenue Subway Phase II, our accessibility program... and a fully zero-emission bus fleet.' Joshi declared, 'It needs to happen now.' Garodnick cited a 'significant hole' in the MTA budget. Liu called congestion pricing 'the only policy' for transit and traffic. The New York City Independent Budget Office also warned of economic harm and delayed improvements. Mayor Adams, once a supporter, deferred to the governor, leaving vulnerable road users without promised transit upgrades.
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City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-06
SUV Rear-Ends City Bus on Union Street▸A Lexus SUV crashed into the back of a city bus on Union Street. The SUV’s front crumpled. The 63-year-old driver suffered head trauma and crushed limbs. The bus stood firm. Following too closely led to blood and metal.
A violent collision unfolded on Union Street when a Lexus SUV rear-ended a city bus, according to the police report. The crash occurred as both vehicles traveled north. The SUV’s front end folded, and its sole occupant—a 63-year-old man—remained conscious despite sustaining head trauma and crush injuries. The police report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors, both attributed to the SUV driver. The bus, a 2016 New Flyer, showed no damage and its driver was uninjured. The report makes no mention of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The impact underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to maintain safe following distances and proper lane usage.
A man lay on Clearview Expressway. Three cars struck him. His chest crushed, life ended there. Another man behind the wheel, pinned and broken. Steel and rain, speed and error. The road did not forgive.
According to the police report, a 56-year-old man was killed on the northbound Clearview Expressway after being struck by three vehicles. The report states, 'A man lay in the road. Three cars struck. His chest crushed. He died there.' Another 56-year-old man, driving one of the vehicles, was injured and pinned, suffering chest injuries described as 'crush injuries.' The police report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as contributing factors, along with 'Pavement Slippery.' These driver errors—specifically following too closely—are cited as direct contributors to the crash. The narrative highlights the systemic danger posed by multiple vehicles traveling straight ahead on a slick roadway, with no mention of pedestrian error as a contributing factor. The deadly sequence unfolded on a rain-slicked expressway, where human error and hazardous conditions combined with fatal results.
Flatbed Driver Strikes Pedestrian Off Expressway▸A flatbed truck rolled west on the Long Island Expressway. Its right front bumper struck a 65-year-old man lying off the roadway. Blood pooled. Death came before dawn. Driver inattention, police say, left the man unseen and unspared.
A 65-year-old man was killed when a flatbed truck traveling westbound on the Long Island Expressway struck him with its right front bumper, according to the police report. The incident occurred off the roadway, with the pedestrian described as 'not in roadway' and 'not at intersection.' The police report states, 'Two flatbeds passed. One did not see. The right front bumper struck his head.' The victim suffered fatal head injuries and died at the scene. The primary contributing factor cited in the police report is 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' No driver errors beyond inattention are listed. The report does not cite any pedestrian behavior as a contributing factor. The focus remains on the truck driver's failure to notice the man lying off the road, resulting in a fatal collision.
Distracted SUV Driver Kills Pedestrian on Van Wyck▸A distracted SUV driver veered south on Van Wyck Expressway, slamming head-on into a man standing near a parked flatbed. The impact crushed his body. He died there, under the cold morning sky, another life ended by driver inattention.
A 41-year-old man was killed on the Van Wyck Expressway when a southbound SUV struck him head-on as he stood near a parked flatbed, according to the police report. The crash occurred at 11:35 a.m. The report states the SUV driver was 'distracted' and that 'alcohol was involved.' The pedestrian was not at an intersection and was engaged in 'other actions in roadway,' but the police report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the primary contributing factor. The SUV's right front bumper delivered the fatal blow, crushing the man's body. The police narrative describes the victim's death as immediate, with his body 'crumpled beneath the wheels.' No contributing factors are attributed to the pedestrian. The data underscores the lethal consequences of driver distraction and impairment.
Woman Crushed to Death in Sedan on Expressway▸A woman, 32, died crushed in the back seat of a sedan on the Long Island Expressway. The car bore no damage. The road was silent. Her body remained where the night left it, unmoved, unmarked, a life ended in stillness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old woman was killed while riding as a rear passenger in a sedan traveling eastbound on the Long Island Expressway. The report states she died of crush injuries and was not ejected from the vehicle. The narrative notes, 'No ejection. No skid marks. The car showed no damage. The road was silent. The body stayed where the night left it.' Police list the contributing factor as 'Unspecified.' No driver errors such as speeding, distraction, or failure to yield are cited in the available data. The vehicle, a 2019 Volkswagen sedan, had no visible damage and was reported to be going straight ahead at the time of the crash. The report does not mention any victim behavior as a contributing factor. The cause of the fatal crush injuries remains unexplained in the official account, leaving only the stark facts of loss and unanswered danger.
John Liu Supports Safety Boosting Car Free Streets▸City data shows open streets thrive. Storefronts fill up. Pedestrians and cyclists bring life and cash. Cars do not. Vacancy rates drop where traffic is banned. Volunteers keep these corridors alive, but city support lags behind their success.
On November 18, 2024, the Department of City Planning released a report titled 'Storefront Activity in NYC Neighborhoods.' The analysis, covered by Streetsblog NYC, finds that open streets—car-free corridors—have about half the vacant storefronts of car-filled streets. The report states: 'vibrant public spaces are key to the success of local businesses.' City officials like Ya-Ting Liu, chief public realm officer, and volunteers such as Alex Morano and Brent Bovenzi, praised the program's impact. Bovenzi noted, 'the program is shrinking because too much of the burden falls upon volunteer labor.' The Open Streets program, now permanent, covers over 130 locations but relies heavily on volunteers. Advocates urge the city to invest more, as the data shows people-centric design drives economic recovery and safer, more vibrant neighborhoods.
-
Car-Free Streets are Good For Business, Yet Another Report Shows,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-11-18
Inexperienced Driver Slams Sedan Head-On, Passenger Bleeds▸A young driver lost control northbound on Van Wyck Expressway. The sedan crashed head-on. A 19-year-old woman in the back suffered severe head bleeding. Four people rode in the car. The airbag burst. The night stayed silent.
A sedan traveling northbound on Van Wyck Expressway crashed head-on, injuring a 19-year-old woman seated in the left rear. According to the police report, the vehicle was a 2017 Infiniti carrying four occupants. The report states the collision resulted in the rear passenger suffering 'severe bleeding' from the head, with the airbag deploying on impact. The police report explicitly lists 'Driver Inexperience' as a contributing factor in the crash. No other contributing factors related to victim behavior are cited. The driver was described as young, and the car's center front end sustained significant damage. The report provides no details on external conditions or actions by other road users. The focus remains on the inexperience of the driver and the resulting injury to the passenger.
Moped Rider Struck by Left-Turning SUV in Queens▸A moped slammed into an SUV’s side on Goethals Avenue. The 26-year-old rider crumpled, blood pooling from his leg. He wore a helmet. The SUV turned left. Sirens echoed. The city’s danger pressed in, steel against flesh.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on Goethals Avenue near 162nd Street in Queens at 1:30 p.m. when a moped traveling straight struck the left side of a station wagon/SUV making a left turn. The 26-year-old moped rider suffered severe lacerations to his leg and was conscious at the scene. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as a contributing factor, underscoring the SUV driver's error in turning left across the moped’s path. The moped rider was wearing a helmet, as noted in the report. The narrative details, 'The moped hit first, straight into the SUV’s side. The rider, 26, crumpled on impact. Blood ran from his leg. He wore a helmet. She turned left. He had a permit.' The data makes clear the systemic risk when drivers fail to yield to vulnerable road users.
Speeding Sedan Flips, Teen Ejected Dead▸A sedan sped down Cross Island Parkway. It flipped. Six inside. A 17-year-old boy in back, no belt, thrown out. His body broke. Sirens cut the dark. Unsafe speed killed him.
According to the police report, a 2014 Nissan sedan with six occupants crashed on Cross Island Parkway while heading south. The report states, 'A 2014 Nissan, six inside, hit speed and flipped.' The sedan overturned. A 17-year-old male passenger in the left rear seat, unbelted, was ejected and killed. The police list 'Unsafe Speed' as the primary contributing factor. The narrative reads, 'A 17-year-old boy in the back, no belt, thrown clear. Whole body broken.' No other contributing factors are cited for the victim. The crash left one dead, marking another life lost to speed.
Toyota Strikes Woman Crossing With Signal▸A Toyota’s bumper slammed into a woman crossing 71st Avenue with the light. Blood streaked her face. She stayed upright, conscious, wounded. The signal turned green. The street stayed red. Steel met flesh at the intersection. The city kept moving.
According to the police report, a Toyota’s left front bumper struck a 37-year-old woman as she crossed 71st Avenue near Parsons Boulevard. The report states she was crossing with the signal at the intersection when the collision occurred. The impact caused severe bleeding to her face, but she remained conscious at the scene. The narrative describes blood running down her face after the crash. The police report does not list any contributing factors for the driver, but the point of impact and the pedestrian’s lawful crossing with the signal highlight a failure of the driver to yield to a pedestrian in the crosswalk. No evidence in the report suggests any pedestrian error. The crash underscores the persistent danger faced by people on foot at city intersections.
Car Passes Too Close, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian▸A westbound car swept past an 80-year-old man on 48th Avenue, its bumper slamming into his head. Blood pooled on the pavement. He stayed conscious, wounded and cut. The street held no intersection, only danger and steel.
According to the police report, an 80-year-old pedestrian was walking with traffic along 48th Avenue near 206th Street at dusk when a westbound car 'passed too close.' The vehicle's right front bumper struck the man's head, causing severe lacerations and bleeding. The report notes that the pedestrian remained conscious at the scene. The crash did not occur at an intersection. The primary contributing factor cited is 'Passing Too Closely,' a clear driver error. The report does not list any pedestrian behavior as a contributing factor. The narrative documents the impact, the injuries, and the absence of intersection controls, underscoring the peril faced by those on foot when drivers fail to maintain safe distance.
Moped Rider Killed in High-Speed Queens Crash▸A 21-year-old moped passenger died on 73rd Avenue, thrown from the seat, head striking asphalt. No helmet. Speed too high. Evening light fading. The crash left the street silent, the body still, the danger plain.
A deadly collision unfolded at the corner of 73rd Avenue and 184th Street in Queens. According to the police report, a moped traveling east struck the center front end of an SUV heading north. The 21-year-old male passenger on the moped was ejected, suffering fatal head injuries. The report states, 'Speed too high,' and lists 'Unsafe Speed' as the primary contributing factor. The narrative describes the rider flying off the moped and striking his head on the pavement, with no helmet present. The crash occurred as daylight faded, underscoring the risks when speed overrides control. The police report does not cite any victim behavior as a contributing factor, focusing instead on the excessive speed that led to the fatal impact.
Improper Lane Use Sends Motorcyclist Flying▸A northbound Suzuki motorcycle struck a merging car on Van Wyck Expressway. The 28-year-old rider, helmeted, was ejected and left bleeding on the pavement. The crash tore his body. Shock set in. The highway roared on. He lay still.
According to the police report, a Suzuki motorcycle traveling northbound on Van Wyck Expressway collided with a car that was merging. The crash occurred at 4 p.m. The 28-year-old rider, who was wearing a helmet, was ejected from the motorcycle and suffered severe lacerations to his entire body. The report states the rider was left in shock and motionless on the pavement. Police cite 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as the contributing factor in the crash. The data makes clear that improper lane usage played a direct role in the violent collision. The rider's helmet use is noted in the report, but only after the primary driver error is established. No contributing factors are attributed to the merging car or to the victim beyond the cited lane usage.
2Van Slams Into Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard▸A van struck a Ford SUV near 39th Avenue. A woman in front suffered a head wound. A young man in back could not move his leg. Blood pooled. Engines cooled. Both passengers remained trapped by their belts.
According to the police report, a van collided with a Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard near 39th Avenue in Queens. The crash left two passengers in the SUV injured: a 49-year-old woman in the front seat suffered head injuries, while a 21-year-old man in the rear seat sustained crush injuries to his lower leg. The report describes, 'The woman in front took the blow to her head. The young man behind could not move his leg. Belts held them in place. Blood pooled. Engines cooled.' Both vehicles were traveling straight ahead at the time of impact. The police report lists contributing factors as 'Unspecified' for both injured passengers and does not cite any specific driver error. No mention is made of victim behavior as a contributing factor. The collision underscores the vulnerability of vehicle occupants in crashes involving larger vehicles.
Liu Supports Flatbush Bus Lane Advocacy Campaign▸Transit advocates and unions demand a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. Mayor Adams stalls. Council Members Hudson and Joseph back the plan. Riders wait. Buses crawl. Working-class New Yorkers bear the brunt. The city delays. Streets stay dangerous. Justice deferred.
On July 10, 2024, a coalition of transit advocates and labor unions renewed calls for a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. The campaign, not tied to a specific council bill, has drawn support from Council Members Crystal Hudson and Rita Joseph. The matter, described as a 'no-brainer solution,' highlights slow bus speeds—often under 5 mph—and the urgent need for safer, faster transit. Jolyse Race of Riders Alliance stressed the economic justice at stake, noting bus riders earn half as much as car owners. Mayor Eric Adams has withheld support, citing community engagement and raising concerns about gentrification. The Department of Transportation's plans have stalled under his administration. Healthcare workers and union leaders spoke of missed shifts and unreliable service. Advocates now plan to survey bus riders to show support. No formal safety analysis was provided, but the campaign centers the needs of vulnerable bus riders and pedestrians.
-
Bus Advocates Renew Push For Flatbush Avenue Bus Lane Despite Mayor’s Lack of Support,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-07-10
Distracted Driver Turns, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian Head-On▸A Toyota sedan turned left on 32nd Avenue and struck a 77-year-old woman crossing with the light. The car’s front bumper caught her head-on. She bled from the head but stayed conscious. Driver inattention marked the crash.
According to the police report, a 77-year-old woman was crossing 32nd Avenue at an intersection, walking with the signal, when a Toyota sedan making a left turn struck her head-on. The report states the vehicle’s front bumper hit her directly, causing severe bleeding from her head. The woman remained conscious at the scene. Police cite 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the primary contributing factor. The driver was reportedly distracted at the time of the collision. The police narrative confirms the pedestrian was crossing with the light, emphasizing that driver error—specifically distraction—led to the impact. No contributing factors are attributed to the pedestrian’s actions.
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Open Streets Permit Reforms▸City hall wants to strip red tape from open streets. The plan slashes insurance demands and trains new groups. Advocates say high costs and paperwork choke car-free events. The move could revive lost corridors and let more New Yorkers reclaim the road.
On June 18, 2024, Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu released a report proposing major reforms to New York City's open streets program. The plan, highlighted in the report 'Realm of Possibility,' aims to 'lift some of the bureaucratic and cost hurdles faced by the largely volunteer open streets groups.' Key elements include lowering or waiving liability insurance for small events, standardizing maintenance agreements, and launching a 'Public Space Academy' to train organizers. Jim Burke, organizer for 34th Avenue, called for removing barriers to make the program equitable. Gib Veconi of Prospect Heights Neighborhood Development Council and Jackson Chabot of Open Plans both praised the reforms, citing burdensome permit processes and high costs as threats to open streets. The proposal responds to advocates' warnings that city policies have stifled car-free spaces, risking the loss of vital corridors for pedestrians and cyclists.
-
Someday, You May be Able to Activate Open Streets with Fewer City Hurdles,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-18
SUV Turns Left, Kills 63-Year-Old Cyclist in Queens▸A Ford SUV turned left at Bowne Street and 41st Avenue. A woman on a bike, age sixty-three, pedaled west. Steel struck flesh. She flew, her head hit pavement. She died alone, her bicycle twisted beside her.
According to the police report, a Ford SUV was making a left turn at the corner of 41st Avenue and Bowne Street in Queens when it struck a 63-year-old woman riding her bicycle westbound. The report states the SUV's driver was inattentive or distracted at the moment of impact. The cyclist was ejected from her bike, suffering fatal head injuries. The narrative notes, 'Her head struck pavement. She died there, alone on the asphalt, her bike crumpled beside her.' The contributing factor listed is 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' No contributing factors are attributed to the cyclist. The collision underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to pay attention, especially during turning movements at intersections.
Liu Opposes IOU Plan Criticizing Congestion Pricing Pause▸Albany lawmakers shut down a last-ditch MTA funding plan after Governor Hochul paused congestion pricing. No replacement for the lost $1 billion. Transit riders and street users face uncertainty. Lawmakers call the move reckless. The city waits. Danger lingers.
On June 7, 2024, the New York State legislative session ended without passing a replacement funding plan for the MTA after Governor Kathy Hochul paused congestion pricing. The matter, described as 'Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,' left the MTA without the $1 billion annual revenue congestion pricing would have provided. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins announced the session’s close without a deal. Lawmakers including State Sen. Andrew Gounardes, Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, State Sen. John Liu, Assemblyman Harvey Epstein, and Assemblyman Tony Simone criticized the governor’s decision and the proposed IOU bailout. Gounardes said, 'I cannot in good conscience ratify a decision that will eliminate a significant, dedicated revenue source for the MTA’s capital plan.' The pause leaves the city’s transit future—and the safety of those who rely on it—uncertain.
-
Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2024-06-07
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Top city officials broke ranks with Mayor Adams. They demanded congestion pricing after Governor Hochul’s sudden halt. MTA board members, planners, and transit chiefs warned of lost funding and stalled projects. They called the suspension a blow to transit and public safety.
On June 6, 2024, New York City officials issued strong statements supporting congestion pricing after Governor Hochul suspended the plan. The matter, titled 'City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,' saw Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi, MTA board member Midori Valdivia, City Planning Chair Dan Garodnick, DOT Chief of Staff Ryan Lynch, and public space czar Ya-Ting Liu all speak out. Valdivia warned, 'today it was announced, without MTA Board consultation, the cancellation of projects such as the Second Avenue Subway Phase II, our accessibility program... and a fully zero-emission bus fleet.' Joshi declared, 'It needs to happen now.' Garodnick cited a 'significant hole' in the MTA budget. Liu called congestion pricing 'the only policy' for transit and traffic. The New York City Independent Budget Office also warned of economic harm and delayed improvements. Mayor Adams, once a supporter, deferred to the governor, leaving vulnerable road users without promised transit upgrades.
-
City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-06
SUV Rear-Ends City Bus on Union Street▸A Lexus SUV crashed into the back of a city bus on Union Street. The SUV’s front crumpled. The 63-year-old driver suffered head trauma and crushed limbs. The bus stood firm. Following too closely led to blood and metal.
A violent collision unfolded on Union Street when a Lexus SUV rear-ended a city bus, according to the police report. The crash occurred as both vehicles traveled north. The SUV’s front end folded, and its sole occupant—a 63-year-old man—remained conscious despite sustaining head trauma and crush injuries. The police report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors, both attributed to the SUV driver. The bus, a 2016 New Flyer, showed no damage and its driver was uninjured. The report makes no mention of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The impact underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to maintain safe following distances and proper lane usage.
A flatbed truck rolled west on the Long Island Expressway. Its right front bumper struck a 65-year-old man lying off the roadway. Blood pooled. Death came before dawn. Driver inattention, police say, left the man unseen and unspared.
A 65-year-old man was killed when a flatbed truck traveling westbound on the Long Island Expressway struck him with its right front bumper, according to the police report. The incident occurred off the roadway, with the pedestrian described as 'not in roadway' and 'not at intersection.' The police report states, 'Two flatbeds passed. One did not see. The right front bumper struck his head.' The victim suffered fatal head injuries and died at the scene. The primary contributing factor cited in the police report is 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' No driver errors beyond inattention are listed. The report does not cite any pedestrian behavior as a contributing factor. The focus remains on the truck driver's failure to notice the man lying off the road, resulting in a fatal collision.
Distracted SUV Driver Kills Pedestrian on Van Wyck▸A distracted SUV driver veered south on Van Wyck Expressway, slamming head-on into a man standing near a parked flatbed. The impact crushed his body. He died there, under the cold morning sky, another life ended by driver inattention.
A 41-year-old man was killed on the Van Wyck Expressway when a southbound SUV struck him head-on as he stood near a parked flatbed, according to the police report. The crash occurred at 11:35 a.m. The report states the SUV driver was 'distracted' and that 'alcohol was involved.' The pedestrian was not at an intersection and was engaged in 'other actions in roadway,' but the police report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the primary contributing factor. The SUV's right front bumper delivered the fatal blow, crushing the man's body. The police narrative describes the victim's death as immediate, with his body 'crumpled beneath the wheels.' No contributing factors are attributed to the pedestrian. The data underscores the lethal consequences of driver distraction and impairment.
Woman Crushed to Death in Sedan on Expressway▸A woman, 32, died crushed in the back seat of a sedan on the Long Island Expressway. The car bore no damage. The road was silent. Her body remained where the night left it, unmoved, unmarked, a life ended in stillness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old woman was killed while riding as a rear passenger in a sedan traveling eastbound on the Long Island Expressway. The report states she died of crush injuries and was not ejected from the vehicle. The narrative notes, 'No ejection. No skid marks. The car showed no damage. The road was silent. The body stayed where the night left it.' Police list the contributing factor as 'Unspecified.' No driver errors such as speeding, distraction, or failure to yield are cited in the available data. The vehicle, a 2019 Volkswagen sedan, had no visible damage and was reported to be going straight ahead at the time of the crash. The report does not mention any victim behavior as a contributing factor. The cause of the fatal crush injuries remains unexplained in the official account, leaving only the stark facts of loss and unanswered danger.
John Liu Supports Safety Boosting Car Free Streets▸City data shows open streets thrive. Storefronts fill up. Pedestrians and cyclists bring life and cash. Cars do not. Vacancy rates drop where traffic is banned. Volunteers keep these corridors alive, but city support lags behind their success.
On November 18, 2024, the Department of City Planning released a report titled 'Storefront Activity in NYC Neighborhoods.' The analysis, covered by Streetsblog NYC, finds that open streets—car-free corridors—have about half the vacant storefronts of car-filled streets. The report states: 'vibrant public spaces are key to the success of local businesses.' City officials like Ya-Ting Liu, chief public realm officer, and volunteers such as Alex Morano and Brent Bovenzi, praised the program's impact. Bovenzi noted, 'the program is shrinking because too much of the burden falls upon volunteer labor.' The Open Streets program, now permanent, covers over 130 locations but relies heavily on volunteers. Advocates urge the city to invest more, as the data shows people-centric design drives economic recovery and safer, more vibrant neighborhoods.
-
Car-Free Streets are Good For Business, Yet Another Report Shows,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-11-18
Inexperienced Driver Slams Sedan Head-On, Passenger Bleeds▸A young driver lost control northbound on Van Wyck Expressway. The sedan crashed head-on. A 19-year-old woman in the back suffered severe head bleeding. Four people rode in the car. The airbag burst. The night stayed silent.
A sedan traveling northbound on Van Wyck Expressway crashed head-on, injuring a 19-year-old woman seated in the left rear. According to the police report, the vehicle was a 2017 Infiniti carrying four occupants. The report states the collision resulted in the rear passenger suffering 'severe bleeding' from the head, with the airbag deploying on impact. The police report explicitly lists 'Driver Inexperience' as a contributing factor in the crash. No other contributing factors related to victim behavior are cited. The driver was described as young, and the car's center front end sustained significant damage. The report provides no details on external conditions or actions by other road users. The focus remains on the inexperience of the driver and the resulting injury to the passenger.
Moped Rider Struck by Left-Turning SUV in Queens▸A moped slammed into an SUV’s side on Goethals Avenue. The 26-year-old rider crumpled, blood pooling from his leg. He wore a helmet. The SUV turned left. Sirens echoed. The city’s danger pressed in, steel against flesh.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on Goethals Avenue near 162nd Street in Queens at 1:30 p.m. when a moped traveling straight struck the left side of a station wagon/SUV making a left turn. The 26-year-old moped rider suffered severe lacerations to his leg and was conscious at the scene. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as a contributing factor, underscoring the SUV driver's error in turning left across the moped’s path. The moped rider was wearing a helmet, as noted in the report. The narrative details, 'The moped hit first, straight into the SUV’s side. The rider, 26, crumpled on impact. Blood ran from his leg. He wore a helmet. She turned left. He had a permit.' The data makes clear the systemic risk when drivers fail to yield to vulnerable road users.
Speeding Sedan Flips, Teen Ejected Dead▸A sedan sped down Cross Island Parkway. It flipped. Six inside. A 17-year-old boy in back, no belt, thrown out. His body broke. Sirens cut the dark. Unsafe speed killed him.
According to the police report, a 2014 Nissan sedan with six occupants crashed on Cross Island Parkway while heading south. The report states, 'A 2014 Nissan, six inside, hit speed and flipped.' The sedan overturned. A 17-year-old male passenger in the left rear seat, unbelted, was ejected and killed. The police list 'Unsafe Speed' as the primary contributing factor. The narrative reads, 'A 17-year-old boy in the back, no belt, thrown clear. Whole body broken.' No other contributing factors are cited for the victim. The crash left one dead, marking another life lost to speed.
Toyota Strikes Woman Crossing With Signal▸A Toyota’s bumper slammed into a woman crossing 71st Avenue with the light. Blood streaked her face. She stayed upright, conscious, wounded. The signal turned green. The street stayed red. Steel met flesh at the intersection. The city kept moving.
According to the police report, a Toyota’s left front bumper struck a 37-year-old woman as she crossed 71st Avenue near Parsons Boulevard. The report states she was crossing with the signal at the intersection when the collision occurred. The impact caused severe bleeding to her face, but she remained conscious at the scene. The narrative describes blood running down her face after the crash. The police report does not list any contributing factors for the driver, but the point of impact and the pedestrian’s lawful crossing with the signal highlight a failure of the driver to yield to a pedestrian in the crosswalk. No evidence in the report suggests any pedestrian error. The crash underscores the persistent danger faced by people on foot at city intersections.
Car Passes Too Close, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian▸A westbound car swept past an 80-year-old man on 48th Avenue, its bumper slamming into his head. Blood pooled on the pavement. He stayed conscious, wounded and cut. The street held no intersection, only danger and steel.
According to the police report, an 80-year-old pedestrian was walking with traffic along 48th Avenue near 206th Street at dusk when a westbound car 'passed too close.' The vehicle's right front bumper struck the man's head, causing severe lacerations and bleeding. The report notes that the pedestrian remained conscious at the scene. The crash did not occur at an intersection. The primary contributing factor cited is 'Passing Too Closely,' a clear driver error. The report does not list any pedestrian behavior as a contributing factor. The narrative documents the impact, the injuries, and the absence of intersection controls, underscoring the peril faced by those on foot when drivers fail to maintain safe distance.
Moped Rider Killed in High-Speed Queens Crash▸A 21-year-old moped passenger died on 73rd Avenue, thrown from the seat, head striking asphalt. No helmet. Speed too high. Evening light fading. The crash left the street silent, the body still, the danger plain.
A deadly collision unfolded at the corner of 73rd Avenue and 184th Street in Queens. According to the police report, a moped traveling east struck the center front end of an SUV heading north. The 21-year-old male passenger on the moped was ejected, suffering fatal head injuries. The report states, 'Speed too high,' and lists 'Unsafe Speed' as the primary contributing factor. The narrative describes the rider flying off the moped and striking his head on the pavement, with no helmet present. The crash occurred as daylight faded, underscoring the risks when speed overrides control. The police report does not cite any victim behavior as a contributing factor, focusing instead on the excessive speed that led to the fatal impact.
Improper Lane Use Sends Motorcyclist Flying▸A northbound Suzuki motorcycle struck a merging car on Van Wyck Expressway. The 28-year-old rider, helmeted, was ejected and left bleeding on the pavement. The crash tore his body. Shock set in. The highway roared on. He lay still.
According to the police report, a Suzuki motorcycle traveling northbound on Van Wyck Expressway collided with a car that was merging. The crash occurred at 4 p.m. The 28-year-old rider, who was wearing a helmet, was ejected from the motorcycle and suffered severe lacerations to his entire body. The report states the rider was left in shock and motionless on the pavement. Police cite 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as the contributing factor in the crash. The data makes clear that improper lane usage played a direct role in the violent collision. The rider's helmet use is noted in the report, but only after the primary driver error is established. No contributing factors are attributed to the merging car or to the victim beyond the cited lane usage.
2Van Slams Into Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard▸A van struck a Ford SUV near 39th Avenue. A woman in front suffered a head wound. A young man in back could not move his leg. Blood pooled. Engines cooled. Both passengers remained trapped by their belts.
According to the police report, a van collided with a Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard near 39th Avenue in Queens. The crash left two passengers in the SUV injured: a 49-year-old woman in the front seat suffered head injuries, while a 21-year-old man in the rear seat sustained crush injuries to his lower leg. The report describes, 'The woman in front took the blow to her head. The young man behind could not move his leg. Belts held them in place. Blood pooled. Engines cooled.' Both vehicles were traveling straight ahead at the time of impact. The police report lists contributing factors as 'Unspecified' for both injured passengers and does not cite any specific driver error. No mention is made of victim behavior as a contributing factor. The collision underscores the vulnerability of vehicle occupants in crashes involving larger vehicles.
Liu Supports Flatbush Bus Lane Advocacy Campaign▸Transit advocates and unions demand a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. Mayor Adams stalls. Council Members Hudson and Joseph back the plan. Riders wait. Buses crawl. Working-class New Yorkers bear the brunt. The city delays. Streets stay dangerous. Justice deferred.
On July 10, 2024, a coalition of transit advocates and labor unions renewed calls for a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. The campaign, not tied to a specific council bill, has drawn support from Council Members Crystal Hudson and Rita Joseph. The matter, described as a 'no-brainer solution,' highlights slow bus speeds—often under 5 mph—and the urgent need for safer, faster transit. Jolyse Race of Riders Alliance stressed the economic justice at stake, noting bus riders earn half as much as car owners. Mayor Eric Adams has withheld support, citing community engagement and raising concerns about gentrification. The Department of Transportation's plans have stalled under his administration. Healthcare workers and union leaders spoke of missed shifts and unreliable service. Advocates now plan to survey bus riders to show support. No formal safety analysis was provided, but the campaign centers the needs of vulnerable bus riders and pedestrians.
-
Bus Advocates Renew Push For Flatbush Avenue Bus Lane Despite Mayor’s Lack of Support,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-07-10
Distracted Driver Turns, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian Head-On▸A Toyota sedan turned left on 32nd Avenue and struck a 77-year-old woman crossing with the light. The car’s front bumper caught her head-on. She bled from the head but stayed conscious. Driver inattention marked the crash.
According to the police report, a 77-year-old woman was crossing 32nd Avenue at an intersection, walking with the signal, when a Toyota sedan making a left turn struck her head-on. The report states the vehicle’s front bumper hit her directly, causing severe bleeding from her head. The woman remained conscious at the scene. Police cite 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the primary contributing factor. The driver was reportedly distracted at the time of the collision. The police narrative confirms the pedestrian was crossing with the light, emphasizing that driver error—specifically distraction—led to the impact. No contributing factors are attributed to the pedestrian’s actions.
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Open Streets Permit Reforms▸City hall wants to strip red tape from open streets. The plan slashes insurance demands and trains new groups. Advocates say high costs and paperwork choke car-free events. The move could revive lost corridors and let more New Yorkers reclaim the road.
On June 18, 2024, Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu released a report proposing major reforms to New York City's open streets program. The plan, highlighted in the report 'Realm of Possibility,' aims to 'lift some of the bureaucratic and cost hurdles faced by the largely volunteer open streets groups.' Key elements include lowering or waiving liability insurance for small events, standardizing maintenance agreements, and launching a 'Public Space Academy' to train organizers. Jim Burke, organizer for 34th Avenue, called for removing barriers to make the program equitable. Gib Veconi of Prospect Heights Neighborhood Development Council and Jackson Chabot of Open Plans both praised the reforms, citing burdensome permit processes and high costs as threats to open streets. The proposal responds to advocates' warnings that city policies have stifled car-free spaces, risking the loss of vital corridors for pedestrians and cyclists.
-
Someday, You May be Able to Activate Open Streets with Fewer City Hurdles,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-18
SUV Turns Left, Kills 63-Year-Old Cyclist in Queens▸A Ford SUV turned left at Bowne Street and 41st Avenue. A woman on a bike, age sixty-three, pedaled west. Steel struck flesh. She flew, her head hit pavement. She died alone, her bicycle twisted beside her.
According to the police report, a Ford SUV was making a left turn at the corner of 41st Avenue and Bowne Street in Queens when it struck a 63-year-old woman riding her bicycle westbound. The report states the SUV's driver was inattentive or distracted at the moment of impact. The cyclist was ejected from her bike, suffering fatal head injuries. The narrative notes, 'Her head struck pavement. She died there, alone on the asphalt, her bike crumpled beside her.' The contributing factor listed is 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' No contributing factors are attributed to the cyclist. The collision underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to pay attention, especially during turning movements at intersections.
Liu Opposes IOU Plan Criticizing Congestion Pricing Pause▸Albany lawmakers shut down a last-ditch MTA funding plan after Governor Hochul paused congestion pricing. No replacement for the lost $1 billion. Transit riders and street users face uncertainty. Lawmakers call the move reckless. The city waits. Danger lingers.
On June 7, 2024, the New York State legislative session ended without passing a replacement funding plan for the MTA after Governor Kathy Hochul paused congestion pricing. The matter, described as 'Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,' left the MTA without the $1 billion annual revenue congestion pricing would have provided. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins announced the session’s close without a deal. Lawmakers including State Sen. Andrew Gounardes, Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, State Sen. John Liu, Assemblyman Harvey Epstein, and Assemblyman Tony Simone criticized the governor’s decision and the proposed IOU bailout. Gounardes said, 'I cannot in good conscience ratify a decision that will eliminate a significant, dedicated revenue source for the MTA’s capital plan.' The pause leaves the city’s transit future—and the safety of those who rely on it—uncertain.
-
Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2024-06-07
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Top city officials broke ranks with Mayor Adams. They demanded congestion pricing after Governor Hochul’s sudden halt. MTA board members, planners, and transit chiefs warned of lost funding and stalled projects. They called the suspension a blow to transit and public safety.
On June 6, 2024, New York City officials issued strong statements supporting congestion pricing after Governor Hochul suspended the plan. The matter, titled 'City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,' saw Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi, MTA board member Midori Valdivia, City Planning Chair Dan Garodnick, DOT Chief of Staff Ryan Lynch, and public space czar Ya-Ting Liu all speak out. Valdivia warned, 'today it was announced, without MTA Board consultation, the cancellation of projects such as the Second Avenue Subway Phase II, our accessibility program... and a fully zero-emission bus fleet.' Joshi declared, 'It needs to happen now.' Garodnick cited a 'significant hole' in the MTA budget. Liu called congestion pricing 'the only policy' for transit and traffic. The New York City Independent Budget Office also warned of economic harm and delayed improvements. Mayor Adams, once a supporter, deferred to the governor, leaving vulnerable road users without promised transit upgrades.
-
City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-06
SUV Rear-Ends City Bus on Union Street▸A Lexus SUV crashed into the back of a city bus on Union Street. The SUV’s front crumpled. The 63-year-old driver suffered head trauma and crushed limbs. The bus stood firm. Following too closely led to blood and metal.
A violent collision unfolded on Union Street when a Lexus SUV rear-ended a city bus, according to the police report. The crash occurred as both vehicles traveled north. The SUV’s front end folded, and its sole occupant—a 63-year-old man—remained conscious despite sustaining head trauma and crush injuries. The police report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors, both attributed to the SUV driver. The bus, a 2016 New Flyer, showed no damage and its driver was uninjured. The report makes no mention of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The impact underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to maintain safe following distances and proper lane usage.
A distracted SUV driver veered south on Van Wyck Expressway, slamming head-on into a man standing near a parked flatbed. The impact crushed his body. He died there, under the cold morning sky, another life ended by driver inattention.
A 41-year-old man was killed on the Van Wyck Expressway when a southbound SUV struck him head-on as he stood near a parked flatbed, according to the police report. The crash occurred at 11:35 a.m. The report states the SUV driver was 'distracted' and that 'alcohol was involved.' The pedestrian was not at an intersection and was engaged in 'other actions in roadway,' but the police report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the primary contributing factor. The SUV's right front bumper delivered the fatal blow, crushing the man's body. The police narrative describes the victim's death as immediate, with his body 'crumpled beneath the wheels.' No contributing factors are attributed to the pedestrian. The data underscores the lethal consequences of driver distraction and impairment.
Woman Crushed to Death in Sedan on Expressway▸A woman, 32, died crushed in the back seat of a sedan on the Long Island Expressway. The car bore no damage. The road was silent. Her body remained where the night left it, unmoved, unmarked, a life ended in stillness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old woman was killed while riding as a rear passenger in a sedan traveling eastbound on the Long Island Expressway. The report states she died of crush injuries and was not ejected from the vehicle. The narrative notes, 'No ejection. No skid marks. The car showed no damage. The road was silent. The body stayed where the night left it.' Police list the contributing factor as 'Unspecified.' No driver errors such as speeding, distraction, or failure to yield are cited in the available data. The vehicle, a 2019 Volkswagen sedan, had no visible damage and was reported to be going straight ahead at the time of the crash. The report does not mention any victim behavior as a contributing factor. The cause of the fatal crush injuries remains unexplained in the official account, leaving only the stark facts of loss and unanswered danger.
John Liu Supports Safety Boosting Car Free Streets▸City data shows open streets thrive. Storefronts fill up. Pedestrians and cyclists bring life and cash. Cars do not. Vacancy rates drop where traffic is banned. Volunteers keep these corridors alive, but city support lags behind their success.
On November 18, 2024, the Department of City Planning released a report titled 'Storefront Activity in NYC Neighborhoods.' The analysis, covered by Streetsblog NYC, finds that open streets—car-free corridors—have about half the vacant storefronts of car-filled streets. The report states: 'vibrant public spaces are key to the success of local businesses.' City officials like Ya-Ting Liu, chief public realm officer, and volunteers such as Alex Morano and Brent Bovenzi, praised the program's impact. Bovenzi noted, 'the program is shrinking because too much of the burden falls upon volunteer labor.' The Open Streets program, now permanent, covers over 130 locations but relies heavily on volunteers. Advocates urge the city to invest more, as the data shows people-centric design drives economic recovery and safer, more vibrant neighborhoods.
-
Car-Free Streets are Good For Business, Yet Another Report Shows,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-11-18
Inexperienced Driver Slams Sedan Head-On, Passenger Bleeds▸A young driver lost control northbound on Van Wyck Expressway. The sedan crashed head-on. A 19-year-old woman in the back suffered severe head bleeding. Four people rode in the car. The airbag burst. The night stayed silent.
A sedan traveling northbound on Van Wyck Expressway crashed head-on, injuring a 19-year-old woman seated in the left rear. According to the police report, the vehicle was a 2017 Infiniti carrying four occupants. The report states the collision resulted in the rear passenger suffering 'severe bleeding' from the head, with the airbag deploying on impact. The police report explicitly lists 'Driver Inexperience' as a contributing factor in the crash. No other contributing factors related to victim behavior are cited. The driver was described as young, and the car's center front end sustained significant damage. The report provides no details on external conditions or actions by other road users. The focus remains on the inexperience of the driver and the resulting injury to the passenger.
Moped Rider Struck by Left-Turning SUV in Queens▸A moped slammed into an SUV’s side on Goethals Avenue. The 26-year-old rider crumpled, blood pooling from his leg. He wore a helmet. The SUV turned left. Sirens echoed. The city’s danger pressed in, steel against flesh.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on Goethals Avenue near 162nd Street in Queens at 1:30 p.m. when a moped traveling straight struck the left side of a station wagon/SUV making a left turn. The 26-year-old moped rider suffered severe lacerations to his leg and was conscious at the scene. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as a contributing factor, underscoring the SUV driver's error in turning left across the moped’s path. The moped rider was wearing a helmet, as noted in the report. The narrative details, 'The moped hit first, straight into the SUV’s side. The rider, 26, crumpled on impact. Blood ran from his leg. He wore a helmet. She turned left. He had a permit.' The data makes clear the systemic risk when drivers fail to yield to vulnerable road users.
Speeding Sedan Flips, Teen Ejected Dead▸A sedan sped down Cross Island Parkway. It flipped. Six inside. A 17-year-old boy in back, no belt, thrown out. His body broke. Sirens cut the dark. Unsafe speed killed him.
According to the police report, a 2014 Nissan sedan with six occupants crashed on Cross Island Parkway while heading south. The report states, 'A 2014 Nissan, six inside, hit speed and flipped.' The sedan overturned. A 17-year-old male passenger in the left rear seat, unbelted, was ejected and killed. The police list 'Unsafe Speed' as the primary contributing factor. The narrative reads, 'A 17-year-old boy in the back, no belt, thrown clear. Whole body broken.' No other contributing factors are cited for the victim. The crash left one dead, marking another life lost to speed.
Toyota Strikes Woman Crossing With Signal▸A Toyota’s bumper slammed into a woman crossing 71st Avenue with the light. Blood streaked her face. She stayed upright, conscious, wounded. The signal turned green. The street stayed red. Steel met flesh at the intersection. The city kept moving.
According to the police report, a Toyota’s left front bumper struck a 37-year-old woman as she crossed 71st Avenue near Parsons Boulevard. The report states she was crossing with the signal at the intersection when the collision occurred. The impact caused severe bleeding to her face, but she remained conscious at the scene. The narrative describes blood running down her face after the crash. The police report does not list any contributing factors for the driver, but the point of impact and the pedestrian’s lawful crossing with the signal highlight a failure of the driver to yield to a pedestrian in the crosswalk. No evidence in the report suggests any pedestrian error. The crash underscores the persistent danger faced by people on foot at city intersections.
Car Passes Too Close, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian▸A westbound car swept past an 80-year-old man on 48th Avenue, its bumper slamming into his head. Blood pooled on the pavement. He stayed conscious, wounded and cut. The street held no intersection, only danger and steel.
According to the police report, an 80-year-old pedestrian was walking with traffic along 48th Avenue near 206th Street at dusk when a westbound car 'passed too close.' The vehicle's right front bumper struck the man's head, causing severe lacerations and bleeding. The report notes that the pedestrian remained conscious at the scene. The crash did not occur at an intersection. The primary contributing factor cited is 'Passing Too Closely,' a clear driver error. The report does not list any pedestrian behavior as a contributing factor. The narrative documents the impact, the injuries, and the absence of intersection controls, underscoring the peril faced by those on foot when drivers fail to maintain safe distance.
Moped Rider Killed in High-Speed Queens Crash▸A 21-year-old moped passenger died on 73rd Avenue, thrown from the seat, head striking asphalt. No helmet. Speed too high. Evening light fading. The crash left the street silent, the body still, the danger plain.
A deadly collision unfolded at the corner of 73rd Avenue and 184th Street in Queens. According to the police report, a moped traveling east struck the center front end of an SUV heading north. The 21-year-old male passenger on the moped was ejected, suffering fatal head injuries. The report states, 'Speed too high,' and lists 'Unsafe Speed' as the primary contributing factor. The narrative describes the rider flying off the moped and striking his head on the pavement, with no helmet present. The crash occurred as daylight faded, underscoring the risks when speed overrides control. The police report does not cite any victim behavior as a contributing factor, focusing instead on the excessive speed that led to the fatal impact.
Improper Lane Use Sends Motorcyclist Flying▸A northbound Suzuki motorcycle struck a merging car on Van Wyck Expressway. The 28-year-old rider, helmeted, was ejected and left bleeding on the pavement. The crash tore his body. Shock set in. The highway roared on. He lay still.
According to the police report, a Suzuki motorcycle traveling northbound on Van Wyck Expressway collided with a car that was merging. The crash occurred at 4 p.m. The 28-year-old rider, who was wearing a helmet, was ejected from the motorcycle and suffered severe lacerations to his entire body. The report states the rider was left in shock and motionless on the pavement. Police cite 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as the contributing factor in the crash. The data makes clear that improper lane usage played a direct role in the violent collision. The rider's helmet use is noted in the report, but only after the primary driver error is established. No contributing factors are attributed to the merging car or to the victim beyond the cited lane usage.
2Van Slams Into Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard▸A van struck a Ford SUV near 39th Avenue. A woman in front suffered a head wound. A young man in back could not move his leg. Blood pooled. Engines cooled. Both passengers remained trapped by their belts.
According to the police report, a van collided with a Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard near 39th Avenue in Queens. The crash left two passengers in the SUV injured: a 49-year-old woman in the front seat suffered head injuries, while a 21-year-old man in the rear seat sustained crush injuries to his lower leg. The report describes, 'The woman in front took the blow to her head. The young man behind could not move his leg. Belts held them in place. Blood pooled. Engines cooled.' Both vehicles were traveling straight ahead at the time of impact. The police report lists contributing factors as 'Unspecified' for both injured passengers and does not cite any specific driver error. No mention is made of victim behavior as a contributing factor. The collision underscores the vulnerability of vehicle occupants in crashes involving larger vehicles.
Liu Supports Flatbush Bus Lane Advocacy Campaign▸Transit advocates and unions demand a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. Mayor Adams stalls. Council Members Hudson and Joseph back the plan. Riders wait. Buses crawl. Working-class New Yorkers bear the brunt. The city delays. Streets stay dangerous. Justice deferred.
On July 10, 2024, a coalition of transit advocates and labor unions renewed calls for a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. The campaign, not tied to a specific council bill, has drawn support from Council Members Crystal Hudson and Rita Joseph. The matter, described as a 'no-brainer solution,' highlights slow bus speeds—often under 5 mph—and the urgent need for safer, faster transit. Jolyse Race of Riders Alliance stressed the economic justice at stake, noting bus riders earn half as much as car owners. Mayor Eric Adams has withheld support, citing community engagement and raising concerns about gentrification. The Department of Transportation's plans have stalled under his administration. Healthcare workers and union leaders spoke of missed shifts and unreliable service. Advocates now plan to survey bus riders to show support. No formal safety analysis was provided, but the campaign centers the needs of vulnerable bus riders and pedestrians.
-
Bus Advocates Renew Push For Flatbush Avenue Bus Lane Despite Mayor’s Lack of Support,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-07-10
Distracted Driver Turns, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian Head-On▸A Toyota sedan turned left on 32nd Avenue and struck a 77-year-old woman crossing with the light. The car’s front bumper caught her head-on. She bled from the head but stayed conscious. Driver inattention marked the crash.
According to the police report, a 77-year-old woman was crossing 32nd Avenue at an intersection, walking with the signal, when a Toyota sedan making a left turn struck her head-on. The report states the vehicle’s front bumper hit her directly, causing severe bleeding from her head. The woman remained conscious at the scene. Police cite 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the primary contributing factor. The driver was reportedly distracted at the time of the collision. The police narrative confirms the pedestrian was crossing with the light, emphasizing that driver error—specifically distraction—led to the impact. No contributing factors are attributed to the pedestrian’s actions.
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Open Streets Permit Reforms▸City hall wants to strip red tape from open streets. The plan slashes insurance demands and trains new groups. Advocates say high costs and paperwork choke car-free events. The move could revive lost corridors and let more New Yorkers reclaim the road.
On June 18, 2024, Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu released a report proposing major reforms to New York City's open streets program. The plan, highlighted in the report 'Realm of Possibility,' aims to 'lift some of the bureaucratic and cost hurdles faced by the largely volunteer open streets groups.' Key elements include lowering or waiving liability insurance for small events, standardizing maintenance agreements, and launching a 'Public Space Academy' to train organizers. Jim Burke, organizer for 34th Avenue, called for removing barriers to make the program equitable. Gib Veconi of Prospect Heights Neighborhood Development Council and Jackson Chabot of Open Plans both praised the reforms, citing burdensome permit processes and high costs as threats to open streets. The proposal responds to advocates' warnings that city policies have stifled car-free spaces, risking the loss of vital corridors for pedestrians and cyclists.
-
Someday, You May be Able to Activate Open Streets with Fewer City Hurdles,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-18
SUV Turns Left, Kills 63-Year-Old Cyclist in Queens▸A Ford SUV turned left at Bowne Street and 41st Avenue. A woman on a bike, age sixty-three, pedaled west. Steel struck flesh. She flew, her head hit pavement. She died alone, her bicycle twisted beside her.
According to the police report, a Ford SUV was making a left turn at the corner of 41st Avenue and Bowne Street in Queens when it struck a 63-year-old woman riding her bicycle westbound. The report states the SUV's driver was inattentive or distracted at the moment of impact. The cyclist was ejected from her bike, suffering fatal head injuries. The narrative notes, 'Her head struck pavement. She died there, alone on the asphalt, her bike crumpled beside her.' The contributing factor listed is 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' No contributing factors are attributed to the cyclist. The collision underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to pay attention, especially during turning movements at intersections.
Liu Opposes IOU Plan Criticizing Congestion Pricing Pause▸Albany lawmakers shut down a last-ditch MTA funding plan after Governor Hochul paused congestion pricing. No replacement for the lost $1 billion. Transit riders and street users face uncertainty. Lawmakers call the move reckless. The city waits. Danger lingers.
On June 7, 2024, the New York State legislative session ended without passing a replacement funding plan for the MTA after Governor Kathy Hochul paused congestion pricing. The matter, described as 'Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,' left the MTA without the $1 billion annual revenue congestion pricing would have provided. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins announced the session’s close without a deal. Lawmakers including State Sen. Andrew Gounardes, Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, State Sen. John Liu, Assemblyman Harvey Epstein, and Assemblyman Tony Simone criticized the governor’s decision and the proposed IOU bailout. Gounardes said, 'I cannot in good conscience ratify a decision that will eliminate a significant, dedicated revenue source for the MTA’s capital plan.' The pause leaves the city’s transit future—and the safety of those who rely on it—uncertain.
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Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2024-06-07
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Top city officials broke ranks with Mayor Adams. They demanded congestion pricing after Governor Hochul’s sudden halt. MTA board members, planners, and transit chiefs warned of lost funding and stalled projects. They called the suspension a blow to transit and public safety.
On June 6, 2024, New York City officials issued strong statements supporting congestion pricing after Governor Hochul suspended the plan. The matter, titled 'City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,' saw Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi, MTA board member Midori Valdivia, City Planning Chair Dan Garodnick, DOT Chief of Staff Ryan Lynch, and public space czar Ya-Ting Liu all speak out. Valdivia warned, 'today it was announced, without MTA Board consultation, the cancellation of projects such as the Second Avenue Subway Phase II, our accessibility program... and a fully zero-emission bus fleet.' Joshi declared, 'It needs to happen now.' Garodnick cited a 'significant hole' in the MTA budget. Liu called congestion pricing 'the only policy' for transit and traffic. The New York City Independent Budget Office also warned of economic harm and delayed improvements. Mayor Adams, once a supporter, deferred to the governor, leaving vulnerable road users without promised transit upgrades.
-
City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-06
SUV Rear-Ends City Bus on Union Street▸A Lexus SUV crashed into the back of a city bus on Union Street. The SUV’s front crumpled. The 63-year-old driver suffered head trauma and crushed limbs. The bus stood firm. Following too closely led to blood and metal.
A violent collision unfolded on Union Street when a Lexus SUV rear-ended a city bus, according to the police report. The crash occurred as both vehicles traveled north. The SUV’s front end folded, and its sole occupant—a 63-year-old man—remained conscious despite sustaining head trauma and crush injuries. The police report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors, both attributed to the SUV driver. The bus, a 2016 New Flyer, showed no damage and its driver was uninjured. The report makes no mention of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The impact underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to maintain safe following distances and proper lane usage.
A woman, 32, died crushed in the back seat of a sedan on the Long Island Expressway. The car bore no damage. The road was silent. Her body remained where the night left it, unmoved, unmarked, a life ended in stillness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old woman was killed while riding as a rear passenger in a sedan traveling eastbound on the Long Island Expressway. The report states she died of crush injuries and was not ejected from the vehicle. The narrative notes, 'No ejection. No skid marks. The car showed no damage. The road was silent. The body stayed where the night left it.' Police list the contributing factor as 'Unspecified.' No driver errors such as speeding, distraction, or failure to yield are cited in the available data. The vehicle, a 2019 Volkswagen sedan, had no visible damage and was reported to be going straight ahead at the time of the crash. The report does not mention any victim behavior as a contributing factor. The cause of the fatal crush injuries remains unexplained in the official account, leaving only the stark facts of loss and unanswered danger.
John Liu Supports Safety Boosting Car Free Streets▸City data shows open streets thrive. Storefronts fill up. Pedestrians and cyclists bring life and cash. Cars do not. Vacancy rates drop where traffic is banned. Volunteers keep these corridors alive, but city support lags behind their success.
On November 18, 2024, the Department of City Planning released a report titled 'Storefront Activity in NYC Neighborhoods.' The analysis, covered by Streetsblog NYC, finds that open streets—car-free corridors—have about half the vacant storefronts of car-filled streets. The report states: 'vibrant public spaces are key to the success of local businesses.' City officials like Ya-Ting Liu, chief public realm officer, and volunteers such as Alex Morano and Brent Bovenzi, praised the program's impact. Bovenzi noted, 'the program is shrinking because too much of the burden falls upon volunteer labor.' The Open Streets program, now permanent, covers over 130 locations but relies heavily on volunteers. Advocates urge the city to invest more, as the data shows people-centric design drives economic recovery and safer, more vibrant neighborhoods.
-
Car-Free Streets are Good For Business, Yet Another Report Shows,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-11-18
Inexperienced Driver Slams Sedan Head-On, Passenger Bleeds▸A young driver lost control northbound on Van Wyck Expressway. The sedan crashed head-on. A 19-year-old woman in the back suffered severe head bleeding. Four people rode in the car. The airbag burst. The night stayed silent.
A sedan traveling northbound on Van Wyck Expressway crashed head-on, injuring a 19-year-old woman seated in the left rear. According to the police report, the vehicle was a 2017 Infiniti carrying four occupants. The report states the collision resulted in the rear passenger suffering 'severe bleeding' from the head, with the airbag deploying on impact. The police report explicitly lists 'Driver Inexperience' as a contributing factor in the crash. No other contributing factors related to victim behavior are cited. The driver was described as young, and the car's center front end sustained significant damage. The report provides no details on external conditions or actions by other road users. The focus remains on the inexperience of the driver and the resulting injury to the passenger.
Moped Rider Struck by Left-Turning SUV in Queens▸A moped slammed into an SUV’s side on Goethals Avenue. The 26-year-old rider crumpled, blood pooling from his leg. He wore a helmet. The SUV turned left. Sirens echoed. The city’s danger pressed in, steel against flesh.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on Goethals Avenue near 162nd Street in Queens at 1:30 p.m. when a moped traveling straight struck the left side of a station wagon/SUV making a left turn. The 26-year-old moped rider suffered severe lacerations to his leg and was conscious at the scene. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as a contributing factor, underscoring the SUV driver's error in turning left across the moped’s path. The moped rider was wearing a helmet, as noted in the report. The narrative details, 'The moped hit first, straight into the SUV’s side. The rider, 26, crumpled on impact. Blood ran from his leg. He wore a helmet. She turned left. He had a permit.' The data makes clear the systemic risk when drivers fail to yield to vulnerable road users.
Speeding Sedan Flips, Teen Ejected Dead▸A sedan sped down Cross Island Parkway. It flipped. Six inside. A 17-year-old boy in back, no belt, thrown out. His body broke. Sirens cut the dark. Unsafe speed killed him.
According to the police report, a 2014 Nissan sedan with six occupants crashed on Cross Island Parkway while heading south. The report states, 'A 2014 Nissan, six inside, hit speed and flipped.' The sedan overturned. A 17-year-old male passenger in the left rear seat, unbelted, was ejected and killed. The police list 'Unsafe Speed' as the primary contributing factor. The narrative reads, 'A 17-year-old boy in the back, no belt, thrown clear. Whole body broken.' No other contributing factors are cited for the victim. The crash left one dead, marking another life lost to speed.
Toyota Strikes Woman Crossing With Signal▸A Toyota’s bumper slammed into a woman crossing 71st Avenue with the light. Blood streaked her face. She stayed upright, conscious, wounded. The signal turned green. The street stayed red. Steel met flesh at the intersection. The city kept moving.
According to the police report, a Toyota’s left front bumper struck a 37-year-old woman as she crossed 71st Avenue near Parsons Boulevard. The report states she was crossing with the signal at the intersection when the collision occurred. The impact caused severe bleeding to her face, but she remained conscious at the scene. The narrative describes blood running down her face after the crash. The police report does not list any contributing factors for the driver, but the point of impact and the pedestrian’s lawful crossing with the signal highlight a failure of the driver to yield to a pedestrian in the crosswalk. No evidence in the report suggests any pedestrian error. The crash underscores the persistent danger faced by people on foot at city intersections.
Car Passes Too Close, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian▸A westbound car swept past an 80-year-old man on 48th Avenue, its bumper slamming into his head. Blood pooled on the pavement. He stayed conscious, wounded and cut. The street held no intersection, only danger and steel.
According to the police report, an 80-year-old pedestrian was walking with traffic along 48th Avenue near 206th Street at dusk when a westbound car 'passed too close.' The vehicle's right front bumper struck the man's head, causing severe lacerations and bleeding. The report notes that the pedestrian remained conscious at the scene. The crash did not occur at an intersection. The primary contributing factor cited is 'Passing Too Closely,' a clear driver error. The report does not list any pedestrian behavior as a contributing factor. The narrative documents the impact, the injuries, and the absence of intersection controls, underscoring the peril faced by those on foot when drivers fail to maintain safe distance.
Moped Rider Killed in High-Speed Queens Crash▸A 21-year-old moped passenger died on 73rd Avenue, thrown from the seat, head striking asphalt. No helmet. Speed too high. Evening light fading. The crash left the street silent, the body still, the danger plain.
A deadly collision unfolded at the corner of 73rd Avenue and 184th Street in Queens. According to the police report, a moped traveling east struck the center front end of an SUV heading north. The 21-year-old male passenger on the moped was ejected, suffering fatal head injuries. The report states, 'Speed too high,' and lists 'Unsafe Speed' as the primary contributing factor. The narrative describes the rider flying off the moped and striking his head on the pavement, with no helmet present. The crash occurred as daylight faded, underscoring the risks when speed overrides control. The police report does not cite any victim behavior as a contributing factor, focusing instead on the excessive speed that led to the fatal impact.
Improper Lane Use Sends Motorcyclist Flying▸A northbound Suzuki motorcycle struck a merging car on Van Wyck Expressway. The 28-year-old rider, helmeted, was ejected and left bleeding on the pavement. The crash tore his body. Shock set in. The highway roared on. He lay still.
According to the police report, a Suzuki motorcycle traveling northbound on Van Wyck Expressway collided with a car that was merging. The crash occurred at 4 p.m. The 28-year-old rider, who was wearing a helmet, was ejected from the motorcycle and suffered severe lacerations to his entire body. The report states the rider was left in shock and motionless on the pavement. Police cite 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as the contributing factor in the crash. The data makes clear that improper lane usage played a direct role in the violent collision. The rider's helmet use is noted in the report, but only after the primary driver error is established. No contributing factors are attributed to the merging car or to the victim beyond the cited lane usage.
2Van Slams Into Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard▸A van struck a Ford SUV near 39th Avenue. A woman in front suffered a head wound. A young man in back could not move his leg. Blood pooled. Engines cooled. Both passengers remained trapped by their belts.
According to the police report, a van collided with a Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard near 39th Avenue in Queens. The crash left two passengers in the SUV injured: a 49-year-old woman in the front seat suffered head injuries, while a 21-year-old man in the rear seat sustained crush injuries to his lower leg. The report describes, 'The woman in front took the blow to her head. The young man behind could not move his leg. Belts held them in place. Blood pooled. Engines cooled.' Both vehicles were traveling straight ahead at the time of impact. The police report lists contributing factors as 'Unspecified' for both injured passengers and does not cite any specific driver error. No mention is made of victim behavior as a contributing factor. The collision underscores the vulnerability of vehicle occupants in crashes involving larger vehicles.
Liu Supports Flatbush Bus Lane Advocacy Campaign▸Transit advocates and unions demand a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. Mayor Adams stalls. Council Members Hudson and Joseph back the plan. Riders wait. Buses crawl. Working-class New Yorkers bear the brunt. The city delays. Streets stay dangerous. Justice deferred.
On July 10, 2024, a coalition of transit advocates and labor unions renewed calls for a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. The campaign, not tied to a specific council bill, has drawn support from Council Members Crystal Hudson and Rita Joseph. The matter, described as a 'no-brainer solution,' highlights slow bus speeds—often under 5 mph—and the urgent need for safer, faster transit. Jolyse Race of Riders Alliance stressed the economic justice at stake, noting bus riders earn half as much as car owners. Mayor Eric Adams has withheld support, citing community engagement and raising concerns about gentrification. The Department of Transportation's plans have stalled under his administration. Healthcare workers and union leaders spoke of missed shifts and unreliable service. Advocates now plan to survey bus riders to show support. No formal safety analysis was provided, but the campaign centers the needs of vulnerable bus riders and pedestrians.
-
Bus Advocates Renew Push For Flatbush Avenue Bus Lane Despite Mayor’s Lack of Support,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-07-10
Distracted Driver Turns, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian Head-On▸A Toyota sedan turned left on 32nd Avenue and struck a 77-year-old woman crossing with the light. The car’s front bumper caught her head-on. She bled from the head but stayed conscious. Driver inattention marked the crash.
According to the police report, a 77-year-old woman was crossing 32nd Avenue at an intersection, walking with the signal, when a Toyota sedan making a left turn struck her head-on. The report states the vehicle’s front bumper hit her directly, causing severe bleeding from her head. The woman remained conscious at the scene. Police cite 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the primary contributing factor. The driver was reportedly distracted at the time of the collision. The police narrative confirms the pedestrian was crossing with the light, emphasizing that driver error—specifically distraction—led to the impact. No contributing factors are attributed to the pedestrian’s actions.
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Open Streets Permit Reforms▸City hall wants to strip red tape from open streets. The plan slashes insurance demands and trains new groups. Advocates say high costs and paperwork choke car-free events. The move could revive lost corridors and let more New Yorkers reclaim the road.
On June 18, 2024, Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu released a report proposing major reforms to New York City's open streets program. The plan, highlighted in the report 'Realm of Possibility,' aims to 'lift some of the bureaucratic and cost hurdles faced by the largely volunteer open streets groups.' Key elements include lowering or waiving liability insurance for small events, standardizing maintenance agreements, and launching a 'Public Space Academy' to train organizers. Jim Burke, organizer for 34th Avenue, called for removing barriers to make the program equitable. Gib Veconi of Prospect Heights Neighborhood Development Council and Jackson Chabot of Open Plans both praised the reforms, citing burdensome permit processes and high costs as threats to open streets. The proposal responds to advocates' warnings that city policies have stifled car-free spaces, risking the loss of vital corridors for pedestrians and cyclists.
-
Someday, You May be Able to Activate Open Streets with Fewer City Hurdles,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-18
SUV Turns Left, Kills 63-Year-Old Cyclist in Queens▸A Ford SUV turned left at Bowne Street and 41st Avenue. A woman on a bike, age sixty-three, pedaled west. Steel struck flesh. She flew, her head hit pavement. She died alone, her bicycle twisted beside her.
According to the police report, a Ford SUV was making a left turn at the corner of 41st Avenue and Bowne Street in Queens when it struck a 63-year-old woman riding her bicycle westbound. The report states the SUV's driver was inattentive or distracted at the moment of impact. The cyclist was ejected from her bike, suffering fatal head injuries. The narrative notes, 'Her head struck pavement. She died there, alone on the asphalt, her bike crumpled beside her.' The contributing factor listed is 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' No contributing factors are attributed to the cyclist. The collision underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to pay attention, especially during turning movements at intersections.
Liu Opposes IOU Plan Criticizing Congestion Pricing Pause▸Albany lawmakers shut down a last-ditch MTA funding plan after Governor Hochul paused congestion pricing. No replacement for the lost $1 billion. Transit riders and street users face uncertainty. Lawmakers call the move reckless. The city waits. Danger lingers.
On June 7, 2024, the New York State legislative session ended without passing a replacement funding plan for the MTA after Governor Kathy Hochul paused congestion pricing. The matter, described as 'Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,' left the MTA without the $1 billion annual revenue congestion pricing would have provided. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins announced the session’s close without a deal. Lawmakers including State Sen. Andrew Gounardes, Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, State Sen. John Liu, Assemblyman Harvey Epstein, and Assemblyman Tony Simone criticized the governor’s decision and the proposed IOU bailout. Gounardes said, 'I cannot in good conscience ratify a decision that will eliminate a significant, dedicated revenue source for the MTA’s capital plan.' The pause leaves the city’s transit future—and the safety of those who rely on it—uncertain.
-
Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2024-06-07
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Top city officials broke ranks with Mayor Adams. They demanded congestion pricing after Governor Hochul’s sudden halt. MTA board members, planners, and transit chiefs warned of lost funding and stalled projects. They called the suspension a blow to transit and public safety.
On June 6, 2024, New York City officials issued strong statements supporting congestion pricing after Governor Hochul suspended the plan. The matter, titled 'City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,' saw Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi, MTA board member Midori Valdivia, City Planning Chair Dan Garodnick, DOT Chief of Staff Ryan Lynch, and public space czar Ya-Ting Liu all speak out. Valdivia warned, 'today it was announced, without MTA Board consultation, the cancellation of projects such as the Second Avenue Subway Phase II, our accessibility program... and a fully zero-emission bus fleet.' Joshi declared, 'It needs to happen now.' Garodnick cited a 'significant hole' in the MTA budget. Liu called congestion pricing 'the only policy' for transit and traffic. The New York City Independent Budget Office also warned of economic harm and delayed improvements. Mayor Adams, once a supporter, deferred to the governor, leaving vulnerable road users without promised transit upgrades.
-
City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-06
SUV Rear-Ends City Bus on Union Street▸A Lexus SUV crashed into the back of a city bus on Union Street. The SUV’s front crumpled. The 63-year-old driver suffered head trauma and crushed limbs. The bus stood firm. Following too closely led to blood and metal.
A violent collision unfolded on Union Street when a Lexus SUV rear-ended a city bus, according to the police report. The crash occurred as both vehicles traveled north. The SUV’s front end folded, and its sole occupant—a 63-year-old man—remained conscious despite sustaining head trauma and crush injuries. The police report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors, both attributed to the SUV driver. The bus, a 2016 New Flyer, showed no damage and its driver was uninjured. The report makes no mention of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The impact underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to maintain safe following distances and proper lane usage.
City data shows open streets thrive. Storefronts fill up. Pedestrians and cyclists bring life and cash. Cars do not. Vacancy rates drop where traffic is banned. Volunteers keep these corridors alive, but city support lags behind their success.
On November 18, 2024, the Department of City Planning released a report titled 'Storefront Activity in NYC Neighborhoods.' The analysis, covered by Streetsblog NYC, finds that open streets—car-free corridors—have about half the vacant storefronts of car-filled streets. The report states: 'vibrant public spaces are key to the success of local businesses.' City officials like Ya-Ting Liu, chief public realm officer, and volunteers such as Alex Morano and Brent Bovenzi, praised the program's impact. Bovenzi noted, 'the program is shrinking because too much of the burden falls upon volunteer labor.' The Open Streets program, now permanent, covers over 130 locations but relies heavily on volunteers. Advocates urge the city to invest more, as the data shows people-centric design drives economic recovery and safer, more vibrant neighborhoods.
- Car-Free Streets are Good For Business, Yet Another Report Shows, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2024-11-18
Inexperienced Driver Slams Sedan Head-On, Passenger Bleeds▸A young driver lost control northbound on Van Wyck Expressway. The sedan crashed head-on. A 19-year-old woman in the back suffered severe head bleeding. Four people rode in the car. The airbag burst. The night stayed silent.
A sedan traveling northbound on Van Wyck Expressway crashed head-on, injuring a 19-year-old woman seated in the left rear. According to the police report, the vehicle was a 2017 Infiniti carrying four occupants. The report states the collision resulted in the rear passenger suffering 'severe bleeding' from the head, with the airbag deploying on impact. The police report explicitly lists 'Driver Inexperience' as a contributing factor in the crash. No other contributing factors related to victim behavior are cited. The driver was described as young, and the car's center front end sustained significant damage. The report provides no details on external conditions or actions by other road users. The focus remains on the inexperience of the driver and the resulting injury to the passenger.
Moped Rider Struck by Left-Turning SUV in Queens▸A moped slammed into an SUV’s side on Goethals Avenue. The 26-year-old rider crumpled, blood pooling from his leg. He wore a helmet. The SUV turned left. Sirens echoed. The city’s danger pressed in, steel against flesh.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on Goethals Avenue near 162nd Street in Queens at 1:30 p.m. when a moped traveling straight struck the left side of a station wagon/SUV making a left turn. The 26-year-old moped rider suffered severe lacerations to his leg and was conscious at the scene. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as a contributing factor, underscoring the SUV driver's error in turning left across the moped’s path. The moped rider was wearing a helmet, as noted in the report. The narrative details, 'The moped hit first, straight into the SUV’s side. The rider, 26, crumpled on impact. Blood ran from his leg. He wore a helmet. She turned left. He had a permit.' The data makes clear the systemic risk when drivers fail to yield to vulnerable road users.
Speeding Sedan Flips, Teen Ejected Dead▸A sedan sped down Cross Island Parkway. It flipped. Six inside. A 17-year-old boy in back, no belt, thrown out. His body broke. Sirens cut the dark. Unsafe speed killed him.
According to the police report, a 2014 Nissan sedan with six occupants crashed on Cross Island Parkway while heading south. The report states, 'A 2014 Nissan, six inside, hit speed and flipped.' The sedan overturned. A 17-year-old male passenger in the left rear seat, unbelted, was ejected and killed. The police list 'Unsafe Speed' as the primary contributing factor. The narrative reads, 'A 17-year-old boy in the back, no belt, thrown clear. Whole body broken.' No other contributing factors are cited for the victim. The crash left one dead, marking another life lost to speed.
Toyota Strikes Woman Crossing With Signal▸A Toyota’s bumper slammed into a woman crossing 71st Avenue with the light. Blood streaked her face. She stayed upright, conscious, wounded. The signal turned green. The street stayed red. Steel met flesh at the intersection. The city kept moving.
According to the police report, a Toyota’s left front bumper struck a 37-year-old woman as she crossed 71st Avenue near Parsons Boulevard. The report states she was crossing with the signal at the intersection when the collision occurred. The impact caused severe bleeding to her face, but she remained conscious at the scene. The narrative describes blood running down her face after the crash. The police report does not list any contributing factors for the driver, but the point of impact and the pedestrian’s lawful crossing with the signal highlight a failure of the driver to yield to a pedestrian in the crosswalk. No evidence in the report suggests any pedestrian error. The crash underscores the persistent danger faced by people on foot at city intersections.
Car Passes Too Close, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian▸A westbound car swept past an 80-year-old man on 48th Avenue, its bumper slamming into his head. Blood pooled on the pavement. He stayed conscious, wounded and cut. The street held no intersection, only danger and steel.
According to the police report, an 80-year-old pedestrian was walking with traffic along 48th Avenue near 206th Street at dusk when a westbound car 'passed too close.' The vehicle's right front bumper struck the man's head, causing severe lacerations and bleeding. The report notes that the pedestrian remained conscious at the scene. The crash did not occur at an intersection. The primary contributing factor cited is 'Passing Too Closely,' a clear driver error. The report does not list any pedestrian behavior as a contributing factor. The narrative documents the impact, the injuries, and the absence of intersection controls, underscoring the peril faced by those on foot when drivers fail to maintain safe distance.
Moped Rider Killed in High-Speed Queens Crash▸A 21-year-old moped passenger died on 73rd Avenue, thrown from the seat, head striking asphalt. No helmet. Speed too high. Evening light fading. The crash left the street silent, the body still, the danger plain.
A deadly collision unfolded at the corner of 73rd Avenue and 184th Street in Queens. According to the police report, a moped traveling east struck the center front end of an SUV heading north. The 21-year-old male passenger on the moped was ejected, suffering fatal head injuries. The report states, 'Speed too high,' and lists 'Unsafe Speed' as the primary contributing factor. The narrative describes the rider flying off the moped and striking his head on the pavement, with no helmet present. The crash occurred as daylight faded, underscoring the risks when speed overrides control. The police report does not cite any victim behavior as a contributing factor, focusing instead on the excessive speed that led to the fatal impact.
Improper Lane Use Sends Motorcyclist Flying▸A northbound Suzuki motorcycle struck a merging car on Van Wyck Expressway. The 28-year-old rider, helmeted, was ejected and left bleeding on the pavement. The crash tore his body. Shock set in. The highway roared on. He lay still.
According to the police report, a Suzuki motorcycle traveling northbound on Van Wyck Expressway collided with a car that was merging. The crash occurred at 4 p.m. The 28-year-old rider, who was wearing a helmet, was ejected from the motorcycle and suffered severe lacerations to his entire body. The report states the rider was left in shock and motionless on the pavement. Police cite 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as the contributing factor in the crash. The data makes clear that improper lane usage played a direct role in the violent collision. The rider's helmet use is noted in the report, but only after the primary driver error is established. No contributing factors are attributed to the merging car or to the victim beyond the cited lane usage.
2Van Slams Into Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard▸A van struck a Ford SUV near 39th Avenue. A woman in front suffered a head wound. A young man in back could not move his leg. Blood pooled. Engines cooled. Both passengers remained trapped by their belts.
According to the police report, a van collided with a Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard near 39th Avenue in Queens. The crash left two passengers in the SUV injured: a 49-year-old woman in the front seat suffered head injuries, while a 21-year-old man in the rear seat sustained crush injuries to his lower leg. The report describes, 'The woman in front took the blow to her head. The young man behind could not move his leg. Belts held them in place. Blood pooled. Engines cooled.' Both vehicles were traveling straight ahead at the time of impact. The police report lists contributing factors as 'Unspecified' for both injured passengers and does not cite any specific driver error. No mention is made of victim behavior as a contributing factor. The collision underscores the vulnerability of vehicle occupants in crashes involving larger vehicles.
Liu Supports Flatbush Bus Lane Advocacy Campaign▸Transit advocates and unions demand a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. Mayor Adams stalls. Council Members Hudson and Joseph back the plan. Riders wait. Buses crawl. Working-class New Yorkers bear the brunt. The city delays. Streets stay dangerous. Justice deferred.
On July 10, 2024, a coalition of transit advocates and labor unions renewed calls for a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. The campaign, not tied to a specific council bill, has drawn support from Council Members Crystal Hudson and Rita Joseph. The matter, described as a 'no-brainer solution,' highlights slow bus speeds—often under 5 mph—and the urgent need for safer, faster transit. Jolyse Race of Riders Alliance stressed the economic justice at stake, noting bus riders earn half as much as car owners. Mayor Eric Adams has withheld support, citing community engagement and raising concerns about gentrification. The Department of Transportation's plans have stalled under his administration. Healthcare workers and union leaders spoke of missed shifts and unreliable service. Advocates now plan to survey bus riders to show support. No formal safety analysis was provided, but the campaign centers the needs of vulnerable bus riders and pedestrians.
-
Bus Advocates Renew Push For Flatbush Avenue Bus Lane Despite Mayor’s Lack of Support,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-07-10
Distracted Driver Turns, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian Head-On▸A Toyota sedan turned left on 32nd Avenue and struck a 77-year-old woman crossing with the light. The car’s front bumper caught her head-on. She bled from the head but stayed conscious. Driver inattention marked the crash.
According to the police report, a 77-year-old woman was crossing 32nd Avenue at an intersection, walking with the signal, when a Toyota sedan making a left turn struck her head-on. The report states the vehicle’s front bumper hit her directly, causing severe bleeding from her head. The woman remained conscious at the scene. Police cite 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the primary contributing factor. The driver was reportedly distracted at the time of the collision. The police narrative confirms the pedestrian was crossing with the light, emphasizing that driver error—specifically distraction—led to the impact. No contributing factors are attributed to the pedestrian’s actions.
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Open Streets Permit Reforms▸City hall wants to strip red tape from open streets. The plan slashes insurance demands and trains new groups. Advocates say high costs and paperwork choke car-free events. The move could revive lost corridors and let more New Yorkers reclaim the road.
On June 18, 2024, Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu released a report proposing major reforms to New York City's open streets program. The plan, highlighted in the report 'Realm of Possibility,' aims to 'lift some of the bureaucratic and cost hurdles faced by the largely volunteer open streets groups.' Key elements include lowering or waiving liability insurance for small events, standardizing maintenance agreements, and launching a 'Public Space Academy' to train organizers. Jim Burke, organizer for 34th Avenue, called for removing barriers to make the program equitable. Gib Veconi of Prospect Heights Neighborhood Development Council and Jackson Chabot of Open Plans both praised the reforms, citing burdensome permit processes and high costs as threats to open streets. The proposal responds to advocates' warnings that city policies have stifled car-free spaces, risking the loss of vital corridors for pedestrians and cyclists.
-
Someday, You May be Able to Activate Open Streets with Fewer City Hurdles,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-18
SUV Turns Left, Kills 63-Year-Old Cyclist in Queens▸A Ford SUV turned left at Bowne Street and 41st Avenue. A woman on a bike, age sixty-three, pedaled west. Steel struck flesh. She flew, her head hit pavement. She died alone, her bicycle twisted beside her.
According to the police report, a Ford SUV was making a left turn at the corner of 41st Avenue and Bowne Street in Queens when it struck a 63-year-old woman riding her bicycle westbound. The report states the SUV's driver was inattentive or distracted at the moment of impact. The cyclist was ejected from her bike, suffering fatal head injuries. The narrative notes, 'Her head struck pavement. She died there, alone on the asphalt, her bike crumpled beside her.' The contributing factor listed is 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' No contributing factors are attributed to the cyclist. The collision underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to pay attention, especially during turning movements at intersections.
Liu Opposes IOU Plan Criticizing Congestion Pricing Pause▸Albany lawmakers shut down a last-ditch MTA funding plan after Governor Hochul paused congestion pricing. No replacement for the lost $1 billion. Transit riders and street users face uncertainty. Lawmakers call the move reckless. The city waits. Danger lingers.
On June 7, 2024, the New York State legislative session ended without passing a replacement funding plan for the MTA after Governor Kathy Hochul paused congestion pricing. The matter, described as 'Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,' left the MTA without the $1 billion annual revenue congestion pricing would have provided. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins announced the session’s close without a deal. Lawmakers including State Sen. Andrew Gounardes, Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, State Sen. John Liu, Assemblyman Harvey Epstein, and Assemblyman Tony Simone criticized the governor’s decision and the proposed IOU bailout. Gounardes said, 'I cannot in good conscience ratify a decision that will eliminate a significant, dedicated revenue source for the MTA’s capital plan.' The pause leaves the city’s transit future—and the safety of those who rely on it—uncertain.
-
Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2024-06-07
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Top city officials broke ranks with Mayor Adams. They demanded congestion pricing after Governor Hochul’s sudden halt. MTA board members, planners, and transit chiefs warned of lost funding and stalled projects. They called the suspension a blow to transit and public safety.
On June 6, 2024, New York City officials issued strong statements supporting congestion pricing after Governor Hochul suspended the plan. The matter, titled 'City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,' saw Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi, MTA board member Midori Valdivia, City Planning Chair Dan Garodnick, DOT Chief of Staff Ryan Lynch, and public space czar Ya-Ting Liu all speak out. Valdivia warned, 'today it was announced, without MTA Board consultation, the cancellation of projects such as the Second Avenue Subway Phase II, our accessibility program... and a fully zero-emission bus fleet.' Joshi declared, 'It needs to happen now.' Garodnick cited a 'significant hole' in the MTA budget. Liu called congestion pricing 'the only policy' for transit and traffic. The New York City Independent Budget Office also warned of economic harm and delayed improvements. Mayor Adams, once a supporter, deferred to the governor, leaving vulnerable road users without promised transit upgrades.
-
City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-06
SUV Rear-Ends City Bus on Union Street▸A Lexus SUV crashed into the back of a city bus on Union Street. The SUV’s front crumpled. The 63-year-old driver suffered head trauma and crushed limbs. The bus stood firm. Following too closely led to blood and metal.
A violent collision unfolded on Union Street when a Lexus SUV rear-ended a city bus, according to the police report. The crash occurred as both vehicles traveled north. The SUV’s front end folded, and its sole occupant—a 63-year-old man—remained conscious despite sustaining head trauma and crush injuries. The police report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors, both attributed to the SUV driver. The bus, a 2016 New Flyer, showed no damage and its driver was uninjured. The report makes no mention of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The impact underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to maintain safe following distances and proper lane usage.
A young driver lost control northbound on Van Wyck Expressway. The sedan crashed head-on. A 19-year-old woman in the back suffered severe head bleeding. Four people rode in the car. The airbag burst. The night stayed silent.
A sedan traveling northbound on Van Wyck Expressway crashed head-on, injuring a 19-year-old woman seated in the left rear. According to the police report, the vehicle was a 2017 Infiniti carrying four occupants. The report states the collision resulted in the rear passenger suffering 'severe bleeding' from the head, with the airbag deploying on impact. The police report explicitly lists 'Driver Inexperience' as a contributing factor in the crash. No other contributing factors related to victim behavior are cited. The driver was described as young, and the car's center front end sustained significant damage. The report provides no details on external conditions or actions by other road users. The focus remains on the inexperience of the driver and the resulting injury to the passenger.
Moped Rider Struck by Left-Turning SUV in Queens▸A moped slammed into an SUV’s side on Goethals Avenue. The 26-year-old rider crumpled, blood pooling from his leg. He wore a helmet. The SUV turned left. Sirens echoed. The city’s danger pressed in, steel against flesh.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on Goethals Avenue near 162nd Street in Queens at 1:30 p.m. when a moped traveling straight struck the left side of a station wagon/SUV making a left turn. The 26-year-old moped rider suffered severe lacerations to his leg and was conscious at the scene. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as a contributing factor, underscoring the SUV driver's error in turning left across the moped’s path. The moped rider was wearing a helmet, as noted in the report. The narrative details, 'The moped hit first, straight into the SUV’s side. The rider, 26, crumpled on impact. Blood ran from his leg. He wore a helmet. She turned left. He had a permit.' The data makes clear the systemic risk when drivers fail to yield to vulnerable road users.
Speeding Sedan Flips, Teen Ejected Dead▸A sedan sped down Cross Island Parkway. It flipped. Six inside. A 17-year-old boy in back, no belt, thrown out. His body broke. Sirens cut the dark. Unsafe speed killed him.
According to the police report, a 2014 Nissan sedan with six occupants crashed on Cross Island Parkway while heading south. The report states, 'A 2014 Nissan, six inside, hit speed and flipped.' The sedan overturned. A 17-year-old male passenger in the left rear seat, unbelted, was ejected and killed. The police list 'Unsafe Speed' as the primary contributing factor. The narrative reads, 'A 17-year-old boy in the back, no belt, thrown clear. Whole body broken.' No other contributing factors are cited for the victim. The crash left one dead, marking another life lost to speed.
Toyota Strikes Woman Crossing With Signal▸A Toyota’s bumper slammed into a woman crossing 71st Avenue with the light. Blood streaked her face. She stayed upright, conscious, wounded. The signal turned green. The street stayed red. Steel met flesh at the intersection. The city kept moving.
According to the police report, a Toyota’s left front bumper struck a 37-year-old woman as she crossed 71st Avenue near Parsons Boulevard. The report states she was crossing with the signal at the intersection when the collision occurred. The impact caused severe bleeding to her face, but she remained conscious at the scene. The narrative describes blood running down her face after the crash. The police report does not list any contributing factors for the driver, but the point of impact and the pedestrian’s lawful crossing with the signal highlight a failure of the driver to yield to a pedestrian in the crosswalk. No evidence in the report suggests any pedestrian error. The crash underscores the persistent danger faced by people on foot at city intersections.
Car Passes Too Close, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian▸A westbound car swept past an 80-year-old man on 48th Avenue, its bumper slamming into his head. Blood pooled on the pavement. He stayed conscious, wounded and cut. The street held no intersection, only danger and steel.
According to the police report, an 80-year-old pedestrian was walking with traffic along 48th Avenue near 206th Street at dusk when a westbound car 'passed too close.' The vehicle's right front bumper struck the man's head, causing severe lacerations and bleeding. The report notes that the pedestrian remained conscious at the scene. The crash did not occur at an intersection. The primary contributing factor cited is 'Passing Too Closely,' a clear driver error. The report does not list any pedestrian behavior as a contributing factor. The narrative documents the impact, the injuries, and the absence of intersection controls, underscoring the peril faced by those on foot when drivers fail to maintain safe distance.
Moped Rider Killed in High-Speed Queens Crash▸A 21-year-old moped passenger died on 73rd Avenue, thrown from the seat, head striking asphalt. No helmet. Speed too high. Evening light fading. The crash left the street silent, the body still, the danger plain.
A deadly collision unfolded at the corner of 73rd Avenue and 184th Street in Queens. According to the police report, a moped traveling east struck the center front end of an SUV heading north. The 21-year-old male passenger on the moped was ejected, suffering fatal head injuries. The report states, 'Speed too high,' and lists 'Unsafe Speed' as the primary contributing factor. The narrative describes the rider flying off the moped and striking his head on the pavement, with no helmet present. The crash occurred as daylight faded, underscoring the risks when speed overrides control. The police report does not cite any victim behavior as a contributing factor, focusing instead on the excessive speed that led to the fatal impact.
Improper Lane Use Sends Motorcyclist Flying▸A northbound Suzuki motorcycle struck a merging car on Van Wyck Expressway. The 28-year-old rider, helmeted, was ejected and left bleeding on the pavement. The crash tore his body. Shock set in. The highway roared on. He lay still.
According to the police report, a Suzuki motorcycle traveling northbound on Van Wyck Expressway collided with a car that was merging. The crash occurred at 4 p.m. The 28-year-old rider, who was wearing a helmet, was ejected from the motorcycle and suffered severe lacerations to his entire body. The report states the rider was left in shock and motionless on the pavement. Police cite 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as the contributing factor in the crash. The data makes clear that improper lane usage played a direct role in the violent collision. The rider's helmet use is noted in the report, but only after the primary driver error is established. No contributing factors are attributed to the merging car or to the victim beyond the cited lane usage.
2Van Slams Into Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard▸A van struck a Ford SUV near 39th Avenue. A woman in front suffered a head wound. A young man in back could not move his leg. Blood pooled. Engines cooled. Both passengers remained trapped by their belts.
According to the police report, a van collided with a Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard near 39th Avenue in Queens. The crash left two passengers in the SUV injured: a 49-year-old woman in the front seat suffered head injuries, while a 21-year-old man in the rear seat sustained crush injuries to his lower leg. The report describes, 'The woman in front took the blow to her head. The young man behind could not move his leg. Belts held them in place. Blood pooled. Engines cooled.' Both vehicles were traveling straight ahead at the time of impact. The police report lists contributing factors as 'Unspecified' for both injured passengers and does not cite any specific driver error. No mention is made of victim behavior as a contributing factor. The collision underscores the vulnerability of vehicle occupants in crashes involving larger vehicles.
Liu Supports Flatbush Bus Lane Advocacy Campaign▸Transit advocates and unions demand a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. Mayor Adams stalls. Council Members Hudson and Joseph back the plan. Riders wait. Buses crawl. Working-class New Yorkers bear the brunt. The city delays. Streets stay dangerous. Justice deferred.
On July 10, 2024, a coalition of transit advocates and labor unions renewed calls for a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. The campaign, not tied to a specific council bill, has drawn support from Council Members Crystal Hudson and Rita Joseph. The matter, described as a 'no-brainer solution,' highlights slow bus speeds—often under 5 mph—and the urgent need for safer, faster transit. Jolyse Race of Riders Alliance stressed the economic justice at stake, noting bus riders earn half as much as car owners. Mayor Eric Adams has withheld support, citing community engagement and raising concerns about gentrification. The Department of Transportation's plans have stalled under his administration. Healthcare workers and union leaders spoke of missed shifts and unreliable service. Advocates now plan to survey bus riders to show support. No formal safety analysis was provided, but the campaign centers the needs of vulnerable bus riders and pedestrians.
-
Bus Advocates Renew Push For Flatbush Avenue Bus Lane Despite Mayor’s Lack of Support,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-07-10
Distracted Driver Turns, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian Head-On▸A Toyota sedan turned left on 32nd Avenue and struck a 77-year-old woman crossing with the light. The car’s front bumper caught her head-on. She bled from the head but stayed conscious. Driver inattention marked the crash.
According to the police report, a 77-year-old woman was crossing 32nd Avenue at an intersection, walking with the signal, when a Toyota sedan making a left turn struck her head-on. The report states the vehicle’s front bumper hit her directly, causing severe bleeding from her head. The woman remained conscious at the scene. Police cite 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the primary contributing factor. The driver was reportedly distracted at the time of the collision. The police narrative confirms the pedestrian was crossing with the light, emphasizing that driver error—specifically distraction—led to the impact. No contributing factors are attributed to the pedestrian’s actions.
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Open Streets Permit Reforms▸City hall wants to strip red tape from open streets. The plan slashes insurance demands and trains new groups. Advocates say high costs and paperwork choke car-free events. The move could revive lost corridors and let more New Yorkers reclaim the road.
On June 18, 2024, Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu released a report proposing major reforms to New York City's open streets program. The plan, highlighted in the report 'Realm of Possibility,' aims to 'lift some of the bureaucratic and cost hurdles faced by the largely volunteer open streets groups.' Key elements include lowering or waiving liability insurance for small events, standardizing maintenance agreements, and launching a 'Public Space Academy' to train organizers. Jim Burke, organizer for 34th Avenue, called for removing barriers to make the program equitable. Gib Veconi of Prospect Heights Neighborhood Development Council and Jackson Chabot of Open Plans both praised the reforms, citing burdensome permit processes and high costs as threats to open streets. The proposal responds to advocates' warnings that city policies have stifled car-free spaces, risking the loss of vital corridors for pedestrians and cyclists.
-
Someday, You May be Able to Activate Open Streets with Fewer City Hurdles,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-18
SUV Turns Left, Kills 63-Year-Old Cyclist in Queens▸A Ford SUV turned left at Bowne Street and 41st Avenue. A woman on a bike, age sixty-three, pedaled west. Steel struck flesh. She flew, her head hit pavement. She died alone, her bicycle twisted beside her.
According to the police report, a Ford SUV was making a left turn at the corner of 41st Avenue and Bowne Street in Queens when it struck a 63-year-old woman riding her bicycle westbound. The report states the SUV's driver was inattentive or distracted at the moment of impact. The cyclist was ejected from her bike, suffering fatal head injuries. The narrative notes, 'Her head struck pavement. She died there, alone on the asphalt, her bike crumpled beside her.' The contributing factor listed is 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' No contributing factors are attributed to the cyclist. The collision underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to pay attention, especially during turning movements at intersections.
Liu Opposes IOU Plan Criticizing Congestion Pricing Pause▸Albany lawmakers shut down a last-ditch MTA funding plan after Governor Hochul paused congestion pricing. No replacement for the lost $1 billion. Transit riders and street users face uncertainty. Lawmakers call the move reckless. The city waits. Danger lingers.
On June 7, 2024, the New York State legislative session ended without passing a replacement funding plan for the MTA after Governor Kathy Hochul paused congestion pricing. The matter, described as 'Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,' left the MTA without the $1 billion annual revenue congestion pricing would have provided. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins announced the session’s close without a deal. Lawmakers including State Sen. Andrew Gounardes, Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, State Sen. John Liu, Assemblyman Harvey Epstein, and Assemblyman Tony Simone criticized the governor’s decision and the proposed IOU bailout. Gounardes said, 'I cannot in good conscience ratify a decision that will eliminate a significant, dedicated revenue source for the MTA’s capital plan.' The pause leaves the city’s transit future—and the safety of those who rely on it—uncertain.
-
Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2024-06-07
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Top city officials broke ranks with Mayor Adams. They demanded congestion pricing after Governor Hochul’s sudden halt. MTA board members, planners, and transit chiefs warned of lost funding and stalled projects. They called the suspension a blow to transit and public safety.
On June 6, 2024, New York City officials issued strong statements supporting congestion pricing after Governor Hochul suspended the plan. The matter, titled 'City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,' saw Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi, MTA board member Midori Valdivia, City Planning Chair Dan Garodnick, DOT Chief of Staff Ryan Lynch, and public space czar Ya-Ting Liu all speak out. Valdivia warned, 'today it was announced, without MTA Board consultation, the cancellation of projects such as the Second Avenue Subway Phase II, our accessibility program... and a fully zero-emission bus fleet.' Joshi declared, 'It needs to happen now.' Garodnick cited a 'significant hole' in the MTA budget. Liu called congestion pricing 'the only policy' for transit and traffic. The New York City Independent Budget Office also warned of economic harm and delayed improvements. Mayor Adams, once a supporter, deferred to the governor, leaving vulnerable road users without promised transit upgrades.
-
City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-06
SUV Rear-Ends City Bus on Union Street▸A Lexus SUV crashed into the back of a city bus on Union Street. The SUV’s front crumpled. The 63-year-old driver suffered head trauma and crushed limbs. The bus stood firm. Following too closely led to blood and metal.
A violent collision unfolded on Union Street when a Lexus SUV rear-ended a city bus, according to the police report. The crash occurred as both vehicles traveled north. The SUV’s front end folded, and its sole occupant—a 63-year-old man—remained conscious despite sustaining head trauma and crush injuries. The police report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors, both attributed to the SUV driver. The bus, a 2016 New Flyer, showed no damage and its driver was uninjured. The report makes no mention of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The impact underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to maintain safe following distances and proper lane usage.
A moped slammed into an SUV’s side on Goethals Avenue. The 26-year-old rider crumpled, blood pooling from his leg. He wore a helmet. The SUV turned left. Sirens echoed. The city’s danger pressed in, steel against flesh.
According to the police report, a collision occurred on Goethals Avenue near 162nd Street in Queens at 1:30 p.m. when a moped traveling straight struck the left side of a station wagon/SUV making a left turn. The 26-year-old moped rider suffered severe lacerations to his leg and was conscious at the scene. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as a contributing factor, underscoring the SUV driver's error in turning left across the moped’s path. The moped rider was wearing a helmet, as noted in the report. The narrative details, 'The moped hit first, straight into the SUV’s side. The rider, 26, crumpled on impact. Blood ran from his leg. He wore a helmet. She turned left. He had a permit.' The data makes clear the systemic risk when drivers fail to yield to vulnerable road users.
Speeding Sedan Flips, Teen Ejected Dead▸A sedan sped down Cross Island Parkway. It flipped. Six inside. A 17-year-old boy in back, no belt, thrown out. His body broke. Sirens cut the dark. Unsafe speed killed him.
According to the police report, a 2014 Nissan sedan with six occupants crashed on Cross Island Parkway while heading south. The report states, 'A 2014 Nissan, six inside, hit speed and flipped.' The sedan overturned. A 17-year-old male passenger in the left rear seat, unbelted, was ejected and killed. The police list 'Unsafe Speed' as the primary contributing factor. The narrative reads, 'A 17-year-old boy in the back, no belt, thrown clear. Whole body broken.' No other contributing factors are cited for the victim. The crash left one dead, marking another life lost to speed.
Toyota Strikes Woman Crossing With Signal▸A Toyota’s bumper slammed into a woman crossing 71st Avenue with the light. Blood streaked her face. She stayed upright, conscious, wounded. The signal turned green. The street stayed red. Steel met flesh at the intersection. The city kept moving.
According to the police report, a Toyota’s left front bumper struck a 37-year-old woman as she crossed 71st Avenue near Parsons Boulevard. The report states she was crossing with the signal at the intersection when the collision occurred. The impact caused severe bleeding to her face, but she remained conscious at the scene. The narrative describes blood running down her face after the crash. The police report does not list any contributing factors for the driver, but the point of impact and the pedestrian’s lawful crossing with the signal highlight a failure of the driver to yield to a pedestrian in the crosswalk. No evidence in the report suggests any pedestrian error. The crash underscores the persistent danger faced by people on foot at city intersections.
Car Passes Too Close, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian▸A westbound car swept past an 80-year-old man on 48th Avenue, its bumper slamming into his head. Blood pooled on the pavement. He stayed conscious, wounded and cut. The street held no intersection, only danger and steel.
According to the police report, an 80-year-old pedestrian was walking with traffic along 48th Avenue near 206th Street at dusk when a westbound car 'passed too close.' The vehicle's right front bumper struck the man's head, causing severe lacerations and bleeding. The report notes that the pedestrian remained conscious at the scene. The crash did not occur at an intersection. The primary contributing factor cited is 'Passing Too Closely,' a clear driver error. The report does not list any pedestrian behavior as a contributing factor. The narrative documents the impact, the injuries, and the absence of intersection controls, underscoring the peril faced by those on foot when drivers fail to maintain safe distance.
Moped Rider Killed in High-Speed Queens Crash▸A 21-year-old moped passenger died on 73rd Avenue, thrown from the seat, head striking asphalt. No helmet. Speed too high. Evening light fading. The crash left the street silent, the body still, the danger plain.
A deadly collision unfolded at the corner of 73rd Avenue and 184th Street in Queens. According to the police report, a moped traveling east struck the center front end of an SUV heading north. The 21-year-old male passenger on the moped was ejected, suffering fatal head injuries. The report states, 'Speed too high,' and lists 'Unsafe Speed' as the primary contributing factor. The narrative describes the rider flying off the moped and striking his head on the pavement, with no helmet present. The crash occurred as daylight faded, underscoring the risks when speed overrides control. The police report does not cite any victim behavior as a contributing factor, focusing instead on the excessive speed that led to the fatal impact.
Improper Lane Use Sends Motorcyclist Flying▸A northbound Suzuki motorcycle struck a merging car on Van Wyck Expressway. The 28-year-old rider, helmeted, was ejected and left bleeding on the pavement. The crash tore his body. Shock set in. The highway roared on. He lay still.
According to the police report, a Suzuki motorcycle traveling northbound on Van Wyck Expressway collided with a car that was merging. The crash occurred at 4 p.m. The 28-year-old rider, who was wearing a helmet, was ejected from the motorcycle and suffered severe lacerations to his entire body. The report states the rider was left in shock and motionless on the pavement. Police cite 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as the contributing factor in the crash. The data makes clear that improper lane usage played a direct role in the violent collision. The rider's helmet use is noted in the report, but only after the primary driver error is established. No contributing factors are attributed to the merging car or to the victim beyond the cited lane usage.
2Van Slams Into Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard▸A van struck a Ford SUV near 39th Avenue. A woman in front suffered a head wound. A young man in back could not move his leg. Blood pooled. Engines cooled. Both passengers remained trapped by their belts.
According to the police report, a van collided with a Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard near 39th Avenue in Queens. The crash left two passengers in the SUV injured: a 49-year-old woman in the front seat suffered head injuries, while a 21-year-old man in the rear seat sustained crush injuries to his lower leg. The report describes, 'The woman in front took the blow to her head. The young man behind could not move his leg. Belts held them in place. Blood pooled. Engines cooled.' Both vehicles were traveling straight ahead at the time of impact. The police report lists contributing factors as 'Unspecified' for both injured passengers and does not cite any specific driver error. No mention is made of victim behavior as a contributing factor. The collision underscores the vulnerability of vehicle occupants in crashes involving larger vehicles.
Liu Supports Flatbush Bus Lane Advocacy Campaign▸Transit advocates and unions demand a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. Mayor Adams stalls. Council Members Hudson and Joseph back the plan. Riders wait. Buses crawl. Working-class New Yorkers bear the brunt. The city delays. Streets stay dangerous. Justice deferred.
On July 10, 2024, a coalition of transit advocates and labor unions renewed calls for a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. The campaign, not tied to a specific council bill, has drawn support from Council Members Crystal Hudson and Rita Joseph. The matter, described as a 'no-brainer solution,' highlights slow bus speeds—often under 5 mph—and the urgent need for safer, faster transit. Jolyse Race of Riders Alliance stressed the economic justice at stake, noting bus riders earn half as much as car owners. Mayor Eric Adams has withheld support, citing community engagement and raising concerns about gentrification. The Department of Transportation's plans have stalled under his administration. Healthcare workers and union leaders spoke of missed shifts and unreliable service. Advocates now plan to survey bus riders to show support. No formal safety analysis was provided, but the campaign centers the needs of vulnerable bus riders and pedestrians.
-
Bus Advocates Renew Push For Flatbush Avenue Bus Lane Despite Mayor’s Lack of Support,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-07-10
Distracted Driver Turns, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian Head-On▸A Toyota sedan turned left on 32nd Avenue and struck a 77-year-old woman crossing with the light. The car’s front bumper caught her head-on. She bled from the head but stayed conscious. Driver inattention marked the crash.
According to the police report, a 77-year-old woman was crossing 32nd Avenue at an intersection, walking with the signal, when a Toyota sedan making a left turn struck her head-on. The report states the vehicle’s front bumper hit her directly, causing severe bleeding from her head. The woman remained conscious at the scene. Police cite 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the primary contributing factor. The driver was reportedly distracted at the time of the collision. The police narrative confirms the pedestrian was crossing with the light, emphasizing that driver error—specifically distraction—led to the impact. No contributing factors are attributed to the pedestrian’s actions.
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Open Streets Permit Reforms▸City hall wants to strip red tape from open streets. The plan slashes insurance demands and trains new groups. Advocates say high costs and paperwork choke car-free events. The move could revive lost corridors and let more New Yorkers reclaim the road.
On June 18, 2024, Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu released a report proposing major reforms to New York City's open streets program. The plan, highlighted in the report 'Realm of Possibility,' aims to 'lift some of the bureaucratic and cost hurdles faced by the largely volunteer open streets groups.' Key elements include lowering or waiving liability insurance for small events, standardizing maintenance agreements, and launching a 'Public Space Academy' to train organizers. Jim Burke, organizer for 34th Avenue, called for removing barriers to make the program equitable. Gib Veconi of Prospect Heights Neighborhood Development Council and Jackson Chabot of Open Plans both praised the reforms, citing burdensome permit processes and high costs as threats to open streets. The proposal responds to advocates' warnings that city policies have stifled car-free spaces, risking the loss of vital corridors for pedestrians and cyclists.
-
Someday, You May be Able to Activate Open Streets with Fewer City Hurdles,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-18
SUV Turns Left, Kills 63-Year-Old Cyclist in Queens▸A Ford SUV turned left at Bowne Street and 41st Avenue. A woman on a bike, age sixty-three, pedaled west. Steel struck flesh. She flew, her head hit pavement. She died alone, her bicycle twisted beside her.
According to the police report, a Ford SUV was making a left turn at the corner of 41st Avenue and Bowne Street in Queens when it struck a 63-year-old woman riding her bicycle westbound. The report states the SUV's driver was inattentive or distracted at the moment of impact. The cyclist was ejected from her bike, suffering fatal head injuries. The narrative notes, 'Her head struck pavement. She died there, alone on the asphalt, her bike crumpled beside her.' The contributing factor listed is 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' No contributing factors are attributed to the cyclist. The collision underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to pay attention, especially during turning movements at intersections.
Liu Opposes IOU Plan Criticizing Congestion Pricing Pause▸Albany lawmakers shut down a last-ditch MTA funding plan after Governor Hochul paused congestion pricing. No replacement for the lost $1 billion. Transit riders and street users face uncertainty. Lawmakers call the move reckless. The city waits. Danger lingers.
On June 7, 2024, the New York State legislative session ended without passing a replacement funding plan for the MTA after Governor Kathy Hochul paused congestion pricing. The matter, described as 'Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,' left the MTA without the $1 billion annual revenue congestion pricing would have provided. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins announced the session’s close without a deal. Lawmakers including State Sen. Andrew Gounardes, Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, State Sen. John Liu, Assemblyman Harvey Epstein, and Assemblyman Tony Simone criticized the governor’s decision and the proposed IOU bailout. Gounardes said, 'I cannot in good conscience ratify a decision that will eliminate a significant, dedicated revenue source for the MTA’s capital plan.' The pause leaves the city’s transit future—and the safety of those who rely on it—uncertain.
-
Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2024-06-07
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Top city officials broke ranks with Mayor Adams. They demanded congestion pricing after Governor Hochul’s sudden halt. MTA board members, planners, and transit chiefs warned of lost funding and stalled projects. They called the suspension a blow to transit and public safety.
On June 6, 2024, New York City officials issued strong statements supporting congestion pricing after Governor Hochul suspended the plan. The matter, titled 'City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,' saw Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi, MTA board member Midori Valdivia, City Planning Chair Dan Garodnick, DOT Chief of Staff Ryan Lynch, and public space czar Ya-Ting Liu all speak out. Valdivia warned, 'today it was announced, without MTA Board consultation, the cancellation of projects such as the Second Avenue Subway Phase II, our accessibility program... and a fully zero-emission bus fleet.' Joshi declared, 'It needs to happen now.' Garodnick cited a 'significant hole' in the MTA budget. Liu called congestion pricing 'the only policy' for transit and traffic. The New York City Independent Budget Office also warned of economic harm and delayed improvements. Mayor Adams, once a supporter, deferred to the governor, leaving vulnerable road users without promised transit upgrades.
-
City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-06
SUV Rear-Ends City Bus on Union Street▸A Lexus SUV crashed into the back of a city bus on Union Street. The SUV’s front crumpled. The 63-year-old driver suffered head trauma and crushed limbs. The bus stood firm. Following too closely led to blood and metal.
A violent collision unfolded on Union Street when a Lexus SUV rear-ended a city bus, according to the police report. The crash occurred as both vehicles traveled north. The SUV’s front end folded, and its sole occupant—a 63-year-old man—remained conscious despite sustaining head trauma and crush injuries. The police report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors, both attributed to the SUV driver. The bus, a 2016 New Flyer, showed no damage and its driver was uninjured. The report makes no mention of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The impact underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to maintain safe following distances and proper lane usage.
A sedan sped down Cross Island Parkway. It flipped. Six inside. A 17-year-old boy in back, no belt, thrown out. His body broke. Sirens cut the dark. Unsafe speed killed him.
According to the police report, a 2014 Nissan sedan with six occupants crashed on Cross Island Parkway while heading south. The report states, 'A 2014 Nissan, six inside, hit speed and flipped.' The sedan overturned. A 17-year-old male passenger in the left rear seat, unbelted, was ejected and killed. The police list 'Unsafe Speed' as the primary contributing factor. The narrative reads, 'A 17-year-old boy in the back, no belt, thrown clear. Whole body broken.' No other contributing factors are cited for the victim. The crash left one dead, marking another life lost to speed.
Toyota Strikes Woman Crossing With Signal▸A Toyota’s bumper slammed into a woman crossing 71st Avenue with the light. Blood streaked her face. She stayed upright, conscious, wounded. The signal turned green. The street stayed red. Steel met flesh at the intersection. The city kept moving.
According to the police report, a Toyota’s left front bumper struck a 37-year-old woman as she crossed 71st Avenue near Parsons Boulevard. The report states she was crossing with the signal at the intersection when the collision occurred. The impact caused severe bleeding to her face, but she remained conscious at the scene. The narrative describes blood running down her face after the crash. The police report does not list any contributing factors for the driver, but the point of impact and the pedestrian’s lawful crossing with the signal highlight a failure of the driver to yield to a pedestrian in the crosswalk. No evidence in the report suggests any pedestrian error. The crash underscores the persistent danger faced by people on foot at city intersections.
Car Passes Too Close, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian▸A westbound car swept past an 80-year-old man on 48th Avenue, its bumper slamming into his head. Blood pooled on the pavement. He stayed conscious, wounded and cut. The street held no intersection, only danger and steel.
According to the police report, an 80-year-old pedestrian was walking with traffic along 48th Avenue near 206th Street at dusk when a westbound car 'passed too close.' The vehicle's right front bumper struck the man's head, causing severe lacerations and bleeding. The report notes that the pedestrian remained conscious at the scene. The crash did not occur at an intersection. The primary contributing factor cited is 'Passing Too Closely,' a clear driver error. The report does not list any pedestrian behavior as a contributing factor. The narrative documents the impact, the injuries, and the absence of intersection controls, underscoring the peril faced by those on foot when drivers fail to maintain safe distance.
Moped Rider Killed in High-Speed Queens Crash▸A 21-year-old moped passenger died on 73rd Avenue, thrown from the seat, head striking asphalt. No helmet. Speed too high. Evening light fading. The crash left the street silent, the body still, the danger plain.
A deadly collision unfolded at the corner of 73rd Avenue and 184th Street in Queens. According to the police report, a moped traveling east struck the center front end of an SUV heading north. The 21-year-old male passenger on the moped was ejected, suffering fatal head injuries. The report states, 'Speed too high,' and lists 'Unsafe Speed' as the primary contributing factor. The narrative describes the rider flying off the moped and striking his head on the pavement, with no helmet present. The crash occurred as daylight faded, underscoring the risks when speed overrides control. The police report does not cite any victim behavior as a contributing factor, focusing instead on the excessive speed that led to the fatal impact.
Improper Lane Use Sends Motorcyclist Flying▸A northbound Suzuki motorcycle struck a merging car on Van Wyck Expressway. The 28-year-old rider, helmeted, was ejected and left bleeding on the pavement. The crash tore his body. Shock set in. The highway roared on. He lay still.
According to the police report, a Suzuki motorcycle traveling northbound on Van Wyck Expressway collided with a car that was merging. The crash occurred at 4 p.m. The 28-year-old rider, who was wearing a helmet, was ejected from the motorcycle and suffered severe lacerations to his entire body. The report states the rider was left in shock and motionless on the pavement. Police cite 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as the contributing factor in the crash. The data makes clear that improper lane usage played a direct role in the violent collision. The rider's helmet use is noted in the report, but only after the primary driver error is established. No contributing factors are attributed to the merging car or to the victim beyond the cited lane usage.
2Van Slams Into Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard▸A van struck a Ford SUV near 39th Avenue. A woman in front suffered a head wound. A young man in back could not move his leg. Blood pooled. Engines cooled. Both passengers remained trapped by their belts.
According to the police report, a van collided with a Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard near 39th Avenue in Queens. The crash left two passengers in the SUV injured: a 49-year-old woman in the front seat suffered head injuries, while a 21-year-old man in the rear seat sustained crush injuries to his lower leg. The report describes, 'The woman in front took the blow to her head. The young man behind could not move his leg. Belts held them in place. Blood pooled. Engines cooled.' Both vehicles were traveling straight ahead at the time of impact. The police report lists contributing factors as 'Unspecified' for both injured passengers and does not cite any specific driver error. No mention is made of victim behavior as a contributing factor. The collision underscores the vulnerability of vehicle occupants in crashes involving larger vehicles.
Liu Supports Flatbush Bus Lane Advocacy Campaign▸Transit advocates and unions demand a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. Mayor Adams stalls. Council Members Hudson and Joseph back the plan. Riders wait. Buses crawl. Working-class New Yorkers bear the brunt. The city delays. Streets stay dangerous. Justice deferred.
On July 10, 2024, a coalition of transit advocates and labor unions renewed calls for a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. The campaign, not tied to a specific council bill, has drawn support from Council Members Crystal Hudson and Rita Joseph. The matter, described as a 'no-brainer solution,' highlights slow bus speeds—often under 5 mph—and the urgent need for safer, faster transit. Jolyse Race of Riders Alliance stressed the economic justice at stake, noting bus riders earn half as much as car owners. Mayor Eric Adams has withheld support, citing community engagement and raising concerns about gentrification. The Department of Transportation's plans have stalled under his administration. Healthcare workers and union leaders spoke of missed shifts and unreliable service. Advocates now plan to survey bus riders to show support. No formal safety analysis was provided, but the campaign centers the needs of vulnerable bus riders and pedestrians.
-
Bus Advocates Renew Push For Flatbush Avenue Bus Lane Despite Mayor’s Lack of Support,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-07-10
Distracted Driver Turns, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian Head-On▸A Toyota sedan turned left on 32nd Avenue and struck a 77-year-old woman crossing with the light. The car’s front bumper caught her head-on. She bled from the head but stayed conscious. Driver inattention marked the crash.
According to the police report, a 77-year-old woman was crossing 32nd Avenue at an intersection, walking with the signal, when a Toyota sedan making a left turn struck her head-on. The report states the vehicle’s front bumper hit her directly, causing severe bleeding from her head. The woman remained conscious at the scene. Police cite 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the primary contributing factor. The driver was reportedly distracted at the time of the collision. The police narrative confirms the pedestrian was crossing with the light, emphasizing that driver error—specifically distraction—led to the impact. No contributing factors are attributed to the pedestrian’s actions.
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Open Streets Permit Reforms▸City hall wants to strip red tape from open streets. The plan slashes insurance demands and trains new groups. Advocates say high costs and paperwork choke car-free events. The move could revive lost corridors and let more New Yorkers reclaim the road.
On June 18, 2024, Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu released a report proposing major reforms to New York City's open streets program. The plan, highlighted in the report 'Realm of Possibility,' aims to 'lift some of the bureaucratic and cost hurdles faced by the largely volunteer open streets groups.' Key elements include lowering or waiving liability insurance for small events, standardizing maintenance agreements, and launching a 'Public Space Academy' to train organizers. Jim Burke, organizer for 34th Avenue, called for removing barriers to make the program equitable. Gib Veconi of Prospect Heights Neighborhood Development Council and Jackson Chabot of Open Plans both praised the reforms, citing burdensome permit processes and high costs as threats to open streets. The proposal responds to advocates' warnings that city policies have stifled car-free spaces, risking the loss of vital corridors for pedestrians and cyclists.
-
Someday, You May be Able to Activate Open Streets with Fewer City Hurdles,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-18
SUV Turns Left, Kills 63-Year-Old Cyclist in Queens▸A Ford SUV turned left at Bowne Street and 41st Avenue. A woman on a bike, age sixty-three, pedaled west. Steel struck flesh. She flew, her head hit pavement. She died alone, her bicycle twisted beside her.
According to the police report, a Ford SUV was making a left turn at the corner of 41st Avenue and Bowne Street in Queens when it struck a 63-year-old woman riding her bicycle westbound. The report states the SUV's driver was inattentive or distracted at the moment of impact. The cyclist was ejected from her bike, suffering fatal head injuries. The narrative notes, 'Her head struck pavement. She died there, alone on the asphalt, her bike crumpled beside her.' The contributing factor listed is 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' No contributing factors are attributed to the cyclist. The collision underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to pay attention, especially during turning movements at intersections.
Liu Opposes IOU Plan Criticizing Congestion Pricing Pause▸Albany lawmakers shut down a last-ditch MTA funding plan after Governor Hochul paused congestion pricing. No replacement for the lost $1 billion. Transit riders and street users face uncertainty. Lawmakers call the move reckless. The city waits. Danger lingers.
On June 7, 2024, the New York State legislative session ended without passing a replacement funding plan for the MTA after Governor Kathy Hochul paused congestion pricing. The matter, described as 'Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,' left the MTA without the $1 billion annual revenue congestion pricing would have provided. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins announced the session’s close without a deal. Lawmakers including State Sen. Andrew Gounardes, Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, State Sen. John Liu, Assemblyman Harvey Epstein, and Assemblyman Tony Simone criticized the governor’s decision and the proposed IOU bailout. Gounardes said, 'I cannot in good conscience ratify a decision that will eliminate a significant, dedicated revenue source for the MTA’s capital plan.' The pause leaves the city’s transit future—and the safety of those who rely on it—uncertain.
-
Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2024-06-07
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Top city officials broke ranks with Mayor Adams. They demanded congestion pricing after Governor Hochul’s sudden halt. MTA board members, planners, and transit chiefs warned of lost funding and stalled projects. They called the suspension a blow to transit and public safety.
On June 6, 2024, New York City officials issued strong statements supporting congestion pricing after Governor Hochul suspended the plan. The matter, titled 'City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,' saw Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi, MTA board member Midori Valdivia, City Planning Chair Dan Garodnick, DOT Chief of Staff Ryan Lynch, and public space czar Ya-Ting Liu all speak out. Valdivia warned, 'today it was announced, without MTA Board consultation, the cancellation of projects such as the Second Avenue Subway Phase II, our accessibility program... and a fully zero-emission bus fleet.' Joshi declared, 'It needs to happen now.' Garodnick cited a 'significant hole' in the MTA budget. Liu called congestion pricing 'the only policy' for transit and traffic. The New York City Independent Budget Office also warned of economic harm and delayed improvements. Mayor Adams, once a supporter, deferred to the governor, leaving vulnerable road users without promised transit upgrades.
-
City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-06
SUV Rear-Ends City Bus on Union Street▸A Lexus SUV crashed into the back of a city bus on Union Street. The SUV’s front crumpled. The 63-year-old driver suffered head trauma and crushed limbs. The bus stood firm. Following too closely led to blood and metal.
A violent collision unfolded on Union Street when a Lexus SUV rear-ended a city bus, according to the police report. The crash occurred as both vehicles traveled north. The SUV’s front end folded, and its sole occupant—a 63-year-old man—remained conscious despite sustaining head trauma and crush injuries. The police report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors, both attributed to the SUV driver. The bus, a 2016 New Flyer, showed no damage and its driver was uninjured. The report makes no mention of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The impact underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to maintain safe following distances and proper lane usage.
A Toyota’s bumper slammed into a woman crossing 71st Avenue with the light. Blood streaked her face. She stayed upright, conscious, wounded. The signal turned green. The street stayed red. Steel met flesh at the intersection. The city kept moving.
According to the police report, a Toyota’s left front bumper struck a 37-year-old woman as she crossed 71st Avenue near Parsons Boulevard. The report states she was crossing with the signal at the intersection when the collision occurred. The impact caused severe bleeding to her face, but she remained conscious at the scene. The narrative describes blood running down her face after the crash. The police report does not list any contributing factors for the driver, but the point of impact and the pedestrian’s lawful crossing with the signal highlight a failure of the driver to yield to a pedestrian in the crosswalk. No evidence in the report suggests any pedestrian error. The crash underscores the persistent danger faced by people on foot at city intersections.
Car Passes Too Close, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian▸A westbound car swept past an 80-year-old man on 48th Avenue, its bumper slamming into his head. Blood pooled on the pavement. He stayed conscious, wounded and cut. The street held no intersection, only danger and steel.
According to the police report, an 80-year-old pedestrian was walking with traffic along 48th Avenue near 206th Street at dusk when a westbound car 'passed too close.' The vehicle's right front bumper struck the man's head, causing severe lacerations and bleeding. The report notes that the pedestrian remained conscious at the scene. The crash did not occur at an intersection. The primary contributing factor cited is 'Passing Too Closely,' a clear driver error. The report does not list any pedestrian behavior as a contributing factor. The narrative documents the impact, the injuries, and the absence of intersection controls, underscoring the peril faced by those on foot when drivers fail to maintain safe distance.
Moped Rider Killed in High-Speed Queens Crash▸A 21-year-old moped passenger died on 73rd Avenue, thrown from the seat, head striking asphalt. No helmet. Speed too high. Evening light fading. The crash left the street silent, the body still, the danger plain.
A deadly collision unfolded at the corner of 73rd Avenue and 184th Street in Queens. According to the police report, a moped traveling east struck the center front end of an SUV heading north. The 21-year-old male passenger on the moped was ejected, suffering fatal head injuries. The report states, 'Speed too high,' and lists 'Unsafe Speed' as the primary contributing factor. The narrative describes the rider flying off the moped and striking his head on the pavement, with no helmet present. The crash occurred as daylight faded, underscoring the risks when speed overrides control. The police report does not cite any victim behavior as a contributing factor, focusing instead on the excessive speed that led to the fatal impact.
Improper Lane Use Sends Motorcyclist Flying▸A northbound Suzuki motorcycle struck a merging car on Van Wyck Expressway. The 28-year-old rider, helmeted, was ejected and left bleeding on the pavement. The crash tore his body. Shock set in. The highway roared on. He lay still.
According to the police report, a Suzuki motorcycle traveling northbound on Van Wyck Expressway collided with a car that was merging. The crash occurred at 4 p.m. The 28-year-old rider, who was wearing a helmet, was ejected from the motorcycle and suffered severe lacerations to his entire body. The report states the rider was left in shock and motionless on the pavement. Police cite 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as the contributing factor in the crash. The data makes clear that improper lane usage played a direct role in the violent collision. The rider's helmet use is noted in the report, but only after the primary driver error is established. No contributing factors are attributed to the merging car or to the victim beyond the cited lane usage.
2Van Slams Into Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard▸A van struck a Ford SUV near 39th Avenue. A woman in front suffered a head wound. A young man in back could not move his leg. Blood pooled. Engines cooled. Both passengers remained trapped by their belts.
According to the police report, a van collided with a Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard near 39th Avenue in Queens. The crash left two passengers in the SUV injured: a 49-year-old woman in the front seat suffered head injuries, while a 21-year-old man in the rear seat sustained crush injuries to his lower leg. The report describes, 'The woman in front took the blow to her head. The young man behind could not move his leg. Belts held them in place. Blood pooled. Engines cooled.' Both vehicles were traveling straight ahead at the time of impact. The police report lists contributing factors as 'Unspecified' for both injured passengers and does not cite any specific driver error. No mention is made of victim behavior as a contributing factor. The collision underscores the vulnerability of vehicle occupants in crashes involving larger vehicles.
Liu Supports Flatbush Bus Lane Advocacy Campaign▸Transit advocates and unions demand a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. Mayor Adams stalls. Council Members Hudson and Joseph back the plan. Riders wait. Buses crawl. Working-class New Yorkers bear the brunt. The city delays. Streets stay dangerous. Justice deferred.
On July 10, 2024, a coalition of transit advocates and labor unions renewed calls for a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. The campaign, not tied to a specific council bill, has drawn support from Council Members Crystal Hudson and Rita Joseph. The matter, described as a 'no-brainer solution,' highlights slow bus speeds—often under 5 mph—and the urgent need for safer, faster transit. Jolyse Race of Riders Alliance stressed the economic justice at stake, noting bus riders earn half as much as car owners. Mayor Eric Adams has withheld support, citing community engagement and raising concerns about gentrification. The Department of Transportation's plans have stalled under his administration. Healthcare workers and union leaders spoke of missed shifts and unreliable service. Advocates now plan to survey bus riders to show support. No formal safety analysis was provided, but the campaign centers the needs of vulnerable bus riders and pedestrians.
-
Bus Advocates Renew Push For Flatbush Avenue Bus Lane Despite Mayor’s Lack of Support,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-07-10
Distracted Driver Turns, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian Head-On▸A Toyota sedan turned left on 32nd Avenue and struck a 77-year-old woman crossing with the light. The car’s front bumper caught her head-on. She bled from the head but stayed conscious. Driver inattention marked the crash.
According to the police report, a 77-year-old woman was crossing 32nd Avenue at an intersection, walking with the signal, when a Toyota sedan making a left turn struck her head-on. The report states the vehicle’s front bumper hit her directly, causing severe bleeding from her head. The woman remained conscious at the scene. Police cite 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the primary contributing factor. The driver was reportedly distracted at the time of the collision. The police narrative confirms the pedestrian was crossing with the light, emphasizing that driver error—specifically distraction—led to the impact. No contributing factors are attributed to the pedestrian’s actions.
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Open Streets Permit Reforms▸City hall wants to strip red tape from open streets. The plan slashes insurance demands and trains new groups. Advocates say high costs and paperwork choke car-free events. The move could revive lost corridors and let more New Yorkers reclaim the road.
On June 18, 2024, Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu released a report proposing major reforms to New York City's open streets program. The plan, highlighted in the report 'Realm of Possibility,' aims to 'lift some of the bureaucratic and cost hurdles faced by the largely volunteer open streets groups.' Key elements include lowering or waiving liability insurance for small events, standardizing maintenance agreements, and launching a 'Public Space Academy' to train organizers. Jim Burke, organizer for 34th Avenue, called for removing barriers to make the program equitable. Gib Veconi of Prospect Heights Neighborhood Development Council and Jackson Chabot of Open Plans both praised the reforms, citing burdensome permit processes and high costs as threats to open streets. The proposal responds to advocates' warnings that city policies have stifled car-free spaces, risking the loss of vital corridors for pedestrians and cyclists.
-
Someday, You May be Able to Activate Open Streets with Fewer City Hurdles,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-18
SUV Turns Left, Kills 63-Year-Old Cyclist in Queens▸A Ford SUV turned left at Bowne Street and 41st Avenue. A woman on a bike, age sixty-three, pedaled west. Steel struck flesh. She flew, her head hit pavement. She died alone, her bicycle twisted beside her.
According to the police report, a Ford SUV was making a left turn at the corner of 41st Avenue and Bowne Street in Queens when it struck a 63-year-old woman riding her bicycle westbound. The report states the SUV's driver was inattentive or distracted at the moment of impact. The cyclist was ejected from her bike, suffering fatal head injuries. The narrative notes, 'Her head struck pavement. She died there, alone on the asphalt, her bike crumpled beside her.' The contributing factor listed is 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' No contributing factors are attributed to the cyclist. The collision underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to pay attention, especially during turning movements at intersections.
Liu Opposes IOU Plan Criticizing Congestion Pricing Pause▸Albany lawmakers shut down a last-ditch MTA funding plan after Governor Hochul paused congestion pricing. No replacement for the lost $1 billion. Transit riders and street users face uncertainty. Lawmakers call the move reckless. The city waits. Danger lingers.
On June 7, 2024, the New York State legislative session ended without passing a replacement funding plan for the MTA after Governor Kathy Hochul paused congestion pricing. The matter, described as 'Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,' left the MTA without the $1 billion annual revenue congestion pricing would have provided. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins announced the session’s close without a deal. Lawmakers including State Sen. Andrew Gounardes, Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, State Sen. John Liu, Assemblyman Harvey Epstein, and Assemblyman Tony Simone criticized the governor’s decision and the proposed IOU bailout. Gounardes said, 'I cannot in good conscience ratify a decision that will eliminate a significant, dedicated revenue source for the MTA’s capital plan.' The pause leaves the city’s transit future—and the safety of those who rely on it—uncertain.
-
Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2024-06-07
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Top city officials broke ranks with Mayor Adams. They demanded congestion pricing after Governor Hochul’s sudden halt. MTA board members, planners, and transit chiefs warned of lost funding and stalled projects. They called the suspension a blow to transit and public safety.
On June 6, 2024, New York City officials issued strong statements supporting congestion pricing after Governor Hochul suspended the plan. The matter, titled 'City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,' saw Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi, MTA board member Midori Valdivia, City Planning Chair Dan Garodnick, DOT Chief of Staff Ryan Lynch, and public space czar Ya-Ting Liu all speak out. Valdivia warned, 'today it was announced, without MTA Board consultation, the cancellation of projects such as the Second Avenue Subway Phase II, our accessibility program... and a fully zero-emission bus fleet.' Joshi declared, 'It needs to happen now.' Garodnick cited a 'significant hole' in the MTA budget. Liu called congestion pricing 'the only policy' for transit and traffic. The New York City Independent Budget Office also warned of economic harm and delayed improvements. Mayor Adams, once a supporter, deferred to the governor, leaving vulnerable road users without promised transit upgrades.
-
City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-06
SUV Rear-Ends City Bus on Union Street▸A Lexus SUV crashed into the back of a city bus on Union Street. The SUV’s front crumpled. The 63-year-old driver suffered head trauma and crushed limbs. The bus stood firm. Following too closely led to blood and metal.
A violent collision unfolded on Union Street when a Lexus SUV rear-ended a city bus, according to the police report. The crash occurred as both vehicles traveled north. The SUV’s front end folded, and its sole occupant—a 63-year-old man—remained conscious despite sustaining head trauma and crush injuries. The police report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors, both attributed to the SUV driver. The bus, a 2016 New Flyer, showed no damage and its driver was uninjured. The report makes no mention of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The impact underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to maintain safe following distances and proper lane usage.
A westbound car swept past an 80-year-old man on 48th Avenue, its bumper slamming into his head. Blood pooled on the pavement. He stayed conscious, wounded and cut. The street held no intersection, only danger and steel.
According to the police report, an 80-year-old pedestrian was walking with traffic along 48th Avenue near 206th Street at dusk when a westbound car 'passed too close.' The vehicle's right front bumper struck the man's head, causing severe lacerations and bleeding. The report notes that the pedestrian remained conscious at the scene. The crash did not occur at an intersection. The primary contributing factor cited is 'Passing Too Closely,' a clear driver error. The report does not list any pedestrian behavior as a contributing factor. The narrative documents the impact, the injuries, and the absence of intersection controls, underscoring the peril faced by those on foot when drivers fail to maintain safe distance.
Moped Rider Killed in High-Speed Queens Crash▸A 21-year-old moped passenger died on 73rd Avenue, thrown from the seat, head striking asphalt. No helmet. Speed too high. Evening light fading. The crash left the street silent, the body still, the danger plain.
A deadly collision unfolded at the corner of 73rd Avenue and 184th Street in Queens. According to the police report, a moped traveling east struck the center front end of an SUV heading north. The 21-year-old male passenger on the moped was ejected, suffering fatal head injuries. The report states, 'Speed too high,' and lists 'Unsafe Speed' as the primary contributing factor. The narrative describes the rider flying off the moped and striking his head on the pavement, with no helmet present. The crash occurred as daylight faded, underscoring the risks when speed overrides control. The police report does not cite any victim behavior as a contributing factor, focusing instead on the excessive speed that led to the fatal impact.
Improper Lane Use Sends Motorcyclist Flying▸A northbound Suzuki motorcycle struck a merging car on Van Wyck Expressway. The 28-year-old rider, helmeted, was ejected and left bleeding on the pavement. The crash tore his body. Shock set in. The highway roared on. He lay still.
According to the police report, a Suzuki motorcycle traveling northbound on Van Wyck Expressway collided with a car that was merging. The crash occurred at 4 p.m. The 28-year-old rider, who was wearing a helmet, was ejected from the motorcycle and suffered severe lacerations to his entire body. The report states the rider was left in shock and motionless on the pavement. Police cite 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as the contributing factor in the crash. The data makes clear that improper lane usage played a direct role in the violent collision. The rider's helmet use is noted in the report, but only after the primary driver error is established. No contributing factors are attributed to the merging car or to the victim beyond the cited lane usage.
2Van Slams Into Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard▸A van struck a Ford SUV near 39th Avenue. A woman in front suffered a head wound. A young man in back could not move his leg. Blood pooled. Engines cooled. Both passengers remained trapped by their belts.
According to the police report, a van collided with a Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard near 39th Avenue in Queens. The crash left two passengers in the SUV injured: a 49-year-old woman in the front seat suffered head injuries, while a 21-year-old man in the rear seat sustained crush injuries to his lower leg. The report describes, 'The woman in front took the blow to her head. The young man behind could not move his leg. Belts held them in place. Blood pooled. Engines cooled.' Both vehicles were traveling straight ahead at the time of impact. The police report lists contributing factors as 'Unspecified' for both injured passengers and does not cite any specific driver error. No mention is made of victim behavior as a contributing factor. The collision underscores the vulnerability of vehicle occupants in crashes involving larger vehicles.
Liu Supports Flatbush Bus Lane Advocacy Campaign▸Transit advocates and unions demand a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. Mayor Adams stalls. Council Members Hudson and Joseph back the plan. Riders wait. Buses crawl. Working-class New Yorkers bear the brunt. The city delays. Streets stay dangerous. Justice deferred.
On July 10, 2024, a coalition of transit advocates and labor unions renewed calls for a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. The campaign, not tied to a specific council bill, has drawn support from Council Members Crystal Hudson and Rita Joseph. The matter, described as a 'no-brainer solution,' highlights slow bus speeds—often under 5 mph—and the urgent need for safer, faster transit. Jolyse Race of Riders Alliance stressed the economic justice at stake, noting bus riders earn half as much as car owners. Mayor Eric Adams has withheld support, citing community engagement and raising concerns about gentrification. The Department of Transportation's plans have stalled under his administration. Healthcare workers and union leaders spoke of missed shifts and unreliable service. Advocates now plan to survey bus riders to show support. No formal safety analysis was provided, but the campaign centers the needs of vulnerable bus riders and pedestrians.
-
Bus Advocates Renew Push For Flatbush Avenue Bus Lane Despite Mayor’s Lack of Support,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-07-10
Distracted Driver Turns, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian Head-On▸A Toyota sedan turned left on 32nd Avenue and struck a 77-year-old woman crossing with the light. The car’s front bumper caught her head-on. She bled from the head but stayed conscious. Driver inattention marked the crash.
According to the police report, a 77-year-old woman was crossing 32nd Avenue at an intersection, walking with the signal, when a Toyota sedan making a left turn struck her head-on. The report states the vehicle’s front bumper hit her directly, causing severe bleeding from her head. The woman remained conscious at the scene. Police cite 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the primary contributing factor. The driver was reportedly distracted at the time of the collision. The police narrative confirms the pedestrian was crossing with the light, emphasizing that driver error—specifically distraction—led to the impact. No contributing factors are attributed to the pedestrian’s actions.
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Open Streets Permit Reforms▸City hall wants to strip red tape from open streets. The plan slashes insurance demands and trains new groups. Advocates say high costs and paperwork choke car-free events. The move could revive lost corridors and let more New Yorkers reclaim the road.
On June 18, 2024, Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu released a report proposing major reforms to New York City's open streets program. The plan, highlighted in the report 'Realm of Possibility,' aims to 'lift some of the bureaucratic and cost hurdles faced by the largely volunteer open streets groups.' Key elements include lowering or waiving liability insurance for small events, standardizing maintenance agreements, and launching a 'Public Space Academy' to train organizers. Jim Burke, organizer for 34th Avenue, called for removing barriers to make the program equitable. Gib Veconi of Prospect Heights Neighborhood Development Council and Jackson Chabot of Open Plans both praised the reforms, citing burdensome permit processes and high costs as threats to open streets. The proposal responds to advocates' warnings that city policies have stifled car-free spaces, risking the loss of vital corridors for pedestrians and cyclists.
-
Someday, You May be Able to Activate Open Streets with Fewer City Hurdles,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-18
SUV Turns Left, Kills 63-Year-Old Cyclist in Queens▸A Ford SUV turned left at Bowne Street and 41st Avenue. A woman on a bike, age sixty-three, pedaled west. Steel struck flesh. She flew, her head hit pavement. She died alone, her bicycle twisted beside her.
According to the police report, a Ford SUV was making a left turn at the corner of 41st Avenue and Bowne Street in Queens when it struck a 63-year-old woman riding her bicycle westbound. The report states the SUV's driver was inattentive or distracted at the moment of impact. The cyclist was ejected from her bike, suffering fatal head injuries. The narrative notes, 'Her head struck pavement. She died there, alone on the asphalt, her bike crumpled beside her.' The contributing factor listed is 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' No contributing factors are attributed to the cyclist. The collision underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to pay attention, especially during turning movements at intersections.
Liu Opposes IOU Plan Criticizing Congestion Pricing Pause▸Albany lawmakers shut down a last-ditch MTA funding plan after Governor Hochul paused congestion pricing. No replacement for the lost $1 billion. Transit riders and street users face uncertainty. Lawmakers call the move reckless. The city waits. Danger lingers.
On June 7, 2024, the New York State legislative session ended without passing a replacement funding plan for the MTA after Governor Kathy Hochul paused congestion pricing. The matter, described as 'Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,' left the MTA without the $1 billion annual revenue congestion pricing would have provided. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins announced the session’s close without a deal. Lawmakers including State Sen. Andrew Gounardes, Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, State Sen. John Liu, Assemblyman Harvey Epstein, and Assemblyman Tony Simone criticized the governor’s decision and the proposed IOU bailout. Gounardes said, 'I cannot in good conscience ratify a decision that will eliminate a significant, dedicated revenue source for the MTA’s capital plan.' The pause leaves the city’s transit future—and the safety of those who rely on it—uncertain.
-
Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2024-06-07
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Top city officials broke ranks with Mayor Adams. They demanded congestion pricing after Governor Hochul’s sudden halt. MTA board members, planners, and transit chiefs warned of lost funding and stalled projects. They called the suspension a blow to transit and public safety.
On June 6, 2024, New York City officials issued strong statements supporting congestion pricing after Governor Hochul suspended the plan. The matter, titled 'City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,' saw Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi, MTA board member Midori Valdivia, City Planning Chair Dan Garodnick, DOT Chief of Staff Ryan Lynch, and public space czar Ya-Ting Liu all speak out. Valdivia warned, 'today it was announced, without MTA Board consultation, the cancellation of projects such as the Second Avenue Subway Phase II, our accessibility program... and a fully zero-emission bus fleet.' Joshi declared, 'It needs to happen now.' Garodnick cited a 'significant hole' in the MTA budget. Liu called congestion pricing 'the only policy' for transit and traffic. The New York City Independent Budget Office also warned of economic harm and delayed improvements. Mayor Adams, once a supporter, deferred to the governor, leaving vulnerable road users without promised transit upgrades.
-
City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-06
SUV Rear-Ends City Bus on Union Street▸A Lexus SUV crashed into the back of a city bus on Union Street. The SUV’s front crumpled. The 63-year-old driver suffered head trauma and crushed limbs. The bus stood firm. Following too closely led to blood and metal.
A violent collision unfolded on Union Street when a Lexus SUV rear-ended a city bus, according to the police report. The crash occurred as both vehicles traveled north. The SUV’s front end folded, and its sole occupant—a 63-year-old man—remained conscious despite sustaining head trauma and crush injuries. The police report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors, both attributed to the SUV driver. The bus, a 2016 New Flyer, showed no damage and its driver was uninjured. The report makes no mention of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The impact underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to maintain safe following distances and proper lane usage.
A 21-year-old moped passenger died on 73rd Avenue, thrown from the seat, head striking asphalt. No helmet. Speed too high. Evening light fading. The crash left the street silent, the body still, the danger plain.
A deadly collision unfolded at the corner of 73rd Avenue and 184th Street in Queens. According to the police report, a moped traveling east struck the center front end of an SUV heading north. The 21-year-old male passenger on the moped was ejected, suffering fatal head injuries. The report states, 'Speed too high,' and lists 'Unsafe Speed' as the primary contributing factor. The narrative describes the rider flying off the moped and striking his head on the pavement, with no helmet present. The crash occurred as daylight faded, underscoring the risks when speed overrides control. The police report does not cite any victim behavior as a contributing factor, focusing instead on the excessive speed that led to the fatal impact.
Improper Lane Use Sends Motorcyclist Flying▸A northbound Suzuki motorcycle struck a merging car on Van Wyck Expressway. The 28-year-old rider, helmeted, was ejected and left bleeding on the pavement. The crash tore his body. Shock set in. The highway roared on. He lay still.
According to the police report, a Suzuki motorcycle traveling northbound on Van Wyck Expressway collided with a car that was merging. The crash occurred at 4 p.m. The 28-year-old rider, who was wearing a helmet, was ejected from the motorcycle and suffered severe lacerations to his entire body. The report states the rider was left in shock and motionless on the pavement. Police cite 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as the contributing factor in the crash. The data makes clear that improper lane usage played a direct role in the violent collision. The rider's helmet use is noted in the report, but only after the primary driver error is established. No contributing factors are attributed to the merging car or to the victim beyond the cited lane usage.
2Van Slams Into Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard▸A van struck a Ford SUV near 39th Avenue. A woman in front suffered a head wound. A young man in back could not move his leg. Blood pooled. Engines cooled. Both passengers remained trapped by their belts.
According to the police report, a van collided with a Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard near 39th Avenue in Queens. The crash left two passengers in the SUV injured: a 49-year-old woman in the front seat suffered head injuries, while a 21-year-old man in the rear seat sustained crush injuries to his lower leg. The report describes, 'The woman in front took the blow to her head. The young man behind could not move his leg. Belts held them in place. Blood pooled. Engines cooled.' Both vehicles were traveling straight ahead at the time of impact. The police report lists contributing factors as 'Unspecified' for both injured passengers and does not cite any specific driver error. No mention is made of victim behavior as a contributing factor. The collision underscores the vulnerability of vehicle occupants in crashes involving larger vehicles.
Liu Supports Flatbush Bus Lane Advocacy Campaign▸Transit advocates and unions demand a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. Mayor Adams stalls. Council Members Hudson and Joseph back the plan. Riders wait. Buses crawl. Working-class New Yorkers bear the brunt. The city delays. Streets stay dangerous. Justice deferred.
On July 10, 2024, a coalition of transit advocates and labor unions renewed calls for a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. The campaign, not tied to a specific council bill, has drawn support from Council Members Crystal Hudson and Rita Joseph. The matter, described as a 'no-brainer solution,' highlights slow bus speeds—often under 5 mph—and the urgent need for safer, faster transit. Jolyse Race of Riders Alliance stressed the economic justice at stake, noting bus riders earn half as much as car owners. Mayor Eric Adams has withheld support, citing community engagement and raising concerns about gentrification. The Department of Transportation's plans have stalled under his administration. Healthcare workers and union leaders spoke of missed shifts and unreliable service. Advocates now plan to survey bus riders to show support. No formal safety analysis was provided, but the campaign centers the needs of vulnerable bus riders and pedestrians.
-
Bus Advocates Renew Push For Flatbush Avenue Bus Lane Despite Mayor’s Lack of Support,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-07-10
Distracted Driver Turns, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian Head-On▸A Toyota sedan turned left on 32nd Avenue and struck a 77-year-old woman crossing with the light. The car’s front bumper caught her head-on. She bled from the head but stayed conscious. Driver inattention marked the crash.
According to the police report, a 77-year-old woman was crossing 32nd Avenue at an intersection, walking with the signal, when a Toyota sedan making a left turn struck her head-on. The report states the vehicle’s front bumper hit her directly, causing severe bleeding from her head. The woman remained conscious at the scene. Police cite 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the primary contributing factor. The driver was reportedly distracted at the time of the collision. The police narrative confirms the pedestrian was crossing with the light, emphasizing that driver error—specifically distraction—led to the impact. No contributing factors are attributed to the pedestrian’s actions.
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Open Streets Permit Reforms▸City hall wants to strip red tape from open streets. The plan slashes insurance demands and trains new groups. Advocates say high costs and paperwork choke car-free events. The move could revive lost corridors and let more New Yorkers reclaim the road.
On June 18, 2024, Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu released a report proposing major reforms to New York City's open streets program. The plan, highlighted in the report 'Realm of Possibility,' aims to 'lift some of the bureaucratic and cost hurdles faced by the largely volunteer open streets groups.' Key elements include lowering or waiving liability insurance for small events, standardizing maintenance agreements, and launching a 'Public Space Academy' to train organizers. Jim Burke, organizer for 34th Avenue, called for removing barriers to make the program equitable. Gib Veconi of Prospect Heights Neighborhood Development Council and Jackson Chabot of Open Plans both praised the reforms, citing burdensome permit processes and high costs as threats to open streets. The proposal responds to advocates' warnings that city policies have stifled car-free spaces, risking the loss of vital corridors for pedestrians and cyclists.
-
Someday, You May be Able to Activate Open Streets with Fewer City Hurdles,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-18
SUV Turns Left, Kills 63-Year-Old Cyclist in Queens▸A Ford SUV turned left at Bowne Street and 41st Avenue. A woman on a bike, age sixty-three, pedaled west. Steel struck flesh. She flew, her head hit pavement. She died alone, her bicycle twisted beside her.
According to the police report, a Ford SUV was making a left turn at the corner of 41st Avenue and Bowne Street in Queens when it struck a 63-year-old woman riding her bicycle westbound. The report states the SUV's driver was inattentive or distracted at the moment of impact. The cyclist was ejected from her bike, suffering fatal head injuries. The narrative notes, 'Her head struck pavement. She died there, alone on the asphalt, her bike crumpled beside her.' The contributing factor listed is 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' No contributing factors are attributed to the cyclist. The collision underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to pay attention, especially during turning movements at intersections.
Liu Opposes IOU Plan Criticizing Congestion Pricing Pause▸Albany lawmakers shut down a last-ditch MTA funding plan after Governor Hochul paused congestion pricing. No replacement for the lost $1 billion. Transit riders and street users face uncertainty. Lawmakers call the move reckless. The city waits. Danger lingers.
On June 7, 2024, the New York State legislative session ended without passing a replacement funding plan for the MTA after Governor Kathy Hochul paused congestion pricing. The matter, described as 'Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,' left the MTA without the $1 billion annual revenue congestion pricing would have provided. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins announced the session’s close without a deal. Lawmakers including State Sen. Andrew Gounardes, Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, State Sen. John Liu, Assemblyman Harvey Epstein, and Assemblyman Tony Simone criticized the governor’s decision and the proposed IOU bailout. Gounardes said, 'I cannot in good conscience ratify a decision that will eliminate a significant, dedicated revenue source for the MTA’s capital plan.' The pause leaves the city’s transit future—and the safety of those who rely on it—uncertain.
-
Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2024-06-07
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Top city officials broke ranks with Mayor Adams. They demanded congestion pricing after Governor Hochul’s sudden halt. MTA board members, planners, and transit chiefs warned of lost funding and stalled projects. They called the suspension a blow to transit and public safety.
On June 6, 2024, New York City officials issued strong statements supporting congestion pricing after Governor Hochul suspended the plan. The matter, titled 'City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,' saw Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi, MTA board member Midori Valdivia, City Planning Chair Dan Garodnick, DOT Chief of Staff Ryan Lynch, and public space czar Ya-Ting Liu all speak out. Valdivia warned, 'today it was announced, without MTA Board consultation, the cancellation of projects such as the Second Avenue Subway Phase II, our accessibility program... and a fully zero-emission bus fleet.' Joshi declared, 'It needs to happen now.' Garodnick cited a 'significant hole' in the MTA budget. Liu called congestion pricing 'the only policy' for transit and traffic. The New York City Independent Budget Office also warned of economic harm and delayed improvements. Mayor Adams, once a supporter, deferred to the governor, leaving vulnerable road users without promised transit upgrades.
-
City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-06
SUV Rear-Ends City Bus on Union Street▸A Lexus SUV crashed into the back of a city bus on Union Street. The SUV’s front crumpled. The 63-year-old driver suffered head trauma and crushed limbs. The bus stood firm. Following too closely led to blood and metal.
A violent collision unfolded on Union Street when a Lexus SUV rear-ended a city bus, according to the police report. The crash occurred as both vehicles traveled north. The SUV’s front end folded, and its sole occupant—a 63-year-old man—remained conscious despite sustaining head trauma and crush injuries. The police report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors, both attributed to the SUV driver. The bus, a 2016 New Flyer, showed no damage and its driver was uninjured. The report makes no mention of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The impact underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to maintain safe following distances and proper lane usage.
A northbound Suzuki motorcycle struck a merging car on Van Wyck Expressway. The 28-year-old rider, helmeted, was ejected and left bleeding on the pavement. The crash tore his body. Shock set in. The highway roared on. He lay still.
According to the police report, a Suzuki motorcycle traveling northbound on Van Wyck Expressway collided with a car that was merging. The crash occurred at 4 p.m. The 28-year-old rider, who was wearing a helmet, was ejected from the motorcycle and suffered severe lacerations to his entire body. The report states the rider was left in shock and motionless on the pavement. Police cite 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as the contributing factor in the crash. The data makes clear that improper lane usage played a direct role in the violent collision. The rider's helmet use is noted in the report, but only after the primary driver error is established. No contributing factors are attributed to the merging car or to the victim beyond the cited lane usage.
2Van Slams Into Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard▸A van struck a Ford SUV near 39th Avenue. A woman in front suffered a head wound. A young man in back could not move his leg. Blood pooled. Engines cooled. Both passengers remained trapped by their belts.
According to the police report, a van collided with a Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard near 39th Avenue in Queens. The crash left two passengers in the SUV injured: a 49-year-old woman in the front seat suffered head injuries, while a 21-year-old man in the rear seat sustained crush injuries to his lower leg. The report describes, 'The woman in front took the blow to her head. The young man behind could not move his leg. Belts held them in place. Blood pooled. Engines cooled.' Both vehicles were traveling straight ahead at the time of impact. The police report lists contributing factors as 'Unspecified' for both injured passengers and does not cite any specific driver error. No mention is made of victim behavior as a contributing factor. The collision underscores the vulnerability of vehicle occupants in crashes involving larger vehicles.
Liu Supports Flatbush Bus Lane Advocacy Campaign▸Transit advocates and unions demand a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. Mayor Adams stalls. Council Members Hudson and Joseph back the plan. Riders wait. Buses crawl. Working-class New Yorkers bear the brunt. The city delays. Streets stay dangerous. Justice deferred.
On July 10, 2024, a coalition of transit advocates and labor unions renewed calls for a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. The campaign, not tied to a specific council bill, has drawn support from Council Members Crystal Hudson and Rita Joseph. The matter, described as a 'no-brainer solution,' highlights slow bus speeds—often under 5 mph—and the urgent need for safer, faster transit. Jolyse Race of Riders Alliance stressed the economic justice at stake, noting bus riders earn half as much as car owners. Mayor Eric Adams has withheld support, citing community engagement and raising concerns about gentrification. The Department of Transportation's plans have stalled under his administration. Healthcare workers and union leaders spoke of missed shifts and unreliable service. Advocates now plan to survey bus riders to show support. No formal safety analysis was provided, but the campaign centers the needs of vulnerable bus riders and pedestrians.
-
Bus Advocates Renew Push For Flatbush Avenue Bus Lane Despite Mayor’s Lack of Support,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-07-10
Distracted Driver Turns, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian Head-On▸A Toyota sedan turned left on 32nd Avenue and struck a 77-year-old woman crossing with the light. The car’s front bumper caught her head-on. She bled from the head but stayed conscious. Driver inattention marked the crash.
According to the police report, a 77-year-old woman was crossing 32nd Avenue at an intersection, walking with the signal, when a Toyota sedan making a left turn struck her head-on. The report states the vehicle’s front bumper hit her directly, causing severe bleeding from her head. The woman remained conscious at the scene. Police cite 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the primary contributing factor. The driver was reportedly distracted at the time of the collision. The police narrative confirms the pedestrian was crossing with the light, emphasizing that driver error—specifically distraction—led to the impact. No contributing factors are attributed to the pedestrian’s actions.
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Open Streets Permit Reforms▸City hall wants to strip red tape from open streets. The plan slashes insurance demands and trains new groups. Advocates say high costs and paperwork choke car-free events. The move could revive lost corridors and let more New Yorkers reclaim the road.
On June 18, 2024, Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu released a report proposing major reforms to New York City's open streets program. The plan, highlighted in the report 'Realm of Possibility,' aims to 'lift some of the bureaucratic and cost hurdles faced by the largely volunteer open streets groups.' Key elements include lowering or waiving liability insurance for small events, standardizing maintenance agreements, and launching a 'Public Space Academy' to train organizers. Jim Burke, organizer for 34th Avenue, called for removing barriers to make the program equitable. Gib Veconi of Prospect Heights Neighborhood Development Council and Jackson Chabot of Open Plans both praised the reforms, citing burdensome permit processes and high costs as threats to open streets. The proposal responds to advocates' warnings that city policies have stifled car-free spaces, risking the loss of vital corridors for pedestrians and cyclists.
-
Someday, You May be Able to Activate Open Streets with Fewer City Hurdles,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-18
SUV Turns Left, Kills 63-Year-Old Cyclist in Queens▸A Ford SUV turned left at Bowne Street and 41st Avenue. A woman on a bike, age sixty-three, pedaled west. Steel struck flesh. She flew, her head hit pavement. She died alone, her bicycle twisted beside her.
According to the police report, a Ford SUV was making a left turn at the corner of 41st Avenue and Bowne Street in Queens when it struck a 63-year-old woman riding her bicycle westbound. The report states the SUV's driver was inattentive or distracted at the moment of impact. The cyclist was ejected from her bike, suffering fatal head injuries. The narrative notes, 'Her head struck pavement. She died there, alone on the asphalt, her bike crumpled beside her.' The contributing factor listed is 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' No contributing factors are attributed to the cyclist. The collision underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to pay attention, especially during turning movements at intersections.
Liu Opposes IOU Plan Criticizing Congestion Pricing Pause▸Albany lawmakers shut down a last-ditch MTA funding plan after Governor Hochul paused congestion pricing. No replacement for the lost $1 billion. Transit riders and street users face uncertainty. Lawmakers call the move reckless. The city waits. Danger lingers.
On June 7, 2024, the New York State legislative session ended without passing a replacement funding plan for the MTA after Governor Kathy Hochul paused congestion pricing. The matter, described as 'Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,' left the MTA without the $1 billion annual revenue congestion pricing would have provided. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins announced the session’s close without a deal. Lawmakers including State Sen. Andrew Gounardes, Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, State Sen. John Liu, Assemblyman Harvey Epstein, and Assemblyman Tony Simone criticized the governor’s decision and the proposed IOU bailout. Gounardes said, 'I cannot in good conscience ratify a decision that will eliminate a significant, dedicated revenue source for the MTA’s capital plan.' The pause leaves the city’s transit future—and the safety of those who rely on it—uncertain.
-
Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2024-06-07
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Top city officials broke ranks with Mayor Adams. They demanded congestion pricing after Governor Hochul’s sudden halt. MTA board members, planners, and transit chiefs warned of lost funding and stalled projects. They called the suspension a blow to transit and public safety.
On June 6, 2024, New York City officials issued strong statements supporting congestion pricing after Governor Hochul suspended the plan. The matter, titled 'City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,' saw Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi, MTA board member Midori Valdivia, City Planning Chair Dan Garodnick, DOT Chief of Staff Ryan Lynch, and public space czar Ya-Ting Liu all speak out. Valdivia warned, 'today it was announced, without MTA Board consultation, the cancellation of projects such as the Second Avenue Subway Phase II, our accessibility program... and a fully zero-emission bus fleet.' Joshi declared, 'It needs to happen now.' Garodnick cited a 'significant hole' in the MTA budget. Liu called congestion pricing 'the only policy' for transit and traffic. The New York City Independent Budget Office also warned of economic harm and delayed improvements. Mayor Adams, once a supporter, deferred to the governor, leaving vulnerable road users without promised transit upgrades.
-
City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-06
SUV Rear-Ends City Bus on Union Street▸A Lexus SUV crashed into the back of a city bus on Union Street. The SUV’s front crumpled. The 63-year-old driver suffered head trauma and crushed limbs. The bus stood firm. Following too closely led to blood and metal.
A violent collision unfolded on Union Street when a Lexus SUV rear-ended a city bus, according to the police report. The crash occurred as both vehicles traveled north. The SUV’s front end folded, and its sole occupant—a 63-year-old man—remained conscious despite sustaining head trauma and crush injuries. The police report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors, both attributed to the SUV driver. The bus, a 2016 New Flyer, showed no damage and its driver was uninjured. The report makes no mention of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The impact underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to maintain safe following distances and proper lane usage.
A van struck a Ford SUV near 39th Avenue. A woman in front suffered a head wound. A young man in back could not move his leg. Blood pooled. Engines cooled. Both passengers remained trapped by their belts.
According to the police report, a van collided with a Ford SUV on College Point Boulevard near 39th Avenue in Queens. The crash left two passengers in the SUV injured: a 49-year-old woman in the front seat suffered head injuries, while a 21-year-old man in the rear seat sustained crush injuries to his lower leg. The report describes, 'The woman in front took the blow to her head. The young man behind could not move his leg. Belts held them in place. Blood pooled. Engines cooled.' Both vehicles were traveling straight ahead at the time of impact. The police report lists contributing factors as 'Unspecified' for both injured passengers and does not cite any specific driver error. No mention is made of victim behavior as a contributing factor. The collision underscores the vulnerability of vehicle occupants in crashes involving larger vehicles.
Liu Supports Flatbush Bus Lane Advocacy Campaign▸Transit advocates and unions demand a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. Mayor Adams stalls. Council Members Hudson and Joseph back the plan. Riders wait. Buses crawl. Working-class New Yorkers bear the brunt. The city delays. Streets stay dangerous. Justice deferred.
On July 10, 2024, a coalition of transit advocates and labor unions renewed calls for a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. The campaign, not tied to a specific council bill, has drawn support from Council Members Crystal Hudson and Rita Joseph. The matter, described as a 'no-brainer solution,' highlights slow bus speeds—often under 5 mph—and the urgent need for safer, faster transit. Jolyse Race of Riders Alliance stressed the economic justice at stake, noting bus riders earn half as much as car owners. Mayor Eric Adams has withheld support, citing community engagement and raising concerns about gentrification. The Department of Transportation's plans have stalled under his administration. Healthcare workers and union leaders spoke of missed shifts and unreliable service. Advocates now plan to survey bus riders to show support. No formal safety analysis was provided, but the campaign centers the needs of vulnerable bus riders and pedestrians.
-
Bus Advocates Renew Push For Flatbush Avenue Bus Lane Despite Mayor’s Lack of Support,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-07-10
Distracted Driver Turns, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian Head-On▸A Toyota sedan turned left on 32nd Avenue and struck a 77-year-old woman crossing with the light. The car’s front bumper caught her head-on. She bled from the head but stayed conscious. Driver inattention marked the crash.
According to the police report, a 77-year-old woman was crossing 32nd Avenue at an intersection, walking with the signal, when a Toyota sedan making a left turn struck her head-on. The report states the vehicle’s front bumper hit her directly, causing severe bleeding from her head. The woman remained conscious at the scene. Police cite 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the primary contributing factor. The driver was reportedly distracted at the time of the collision. The police narrative confirms the pedestrian was crossing with the light, emphasizing that driver error—specifically distraction—led to the impact. No contributing factors are attributed to the pedestrian’s actions.
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Open Streets Permit Reforms▸City hall wants to strip red tape from open streets. The plan slashes insurance demands and trains new groups. Advocates say high costs and paperwork choke car-free events. The move could revive lost corridors and let more New Yorkers reclaim the road.
On June 18, 2024, Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu released a report proposing major reforms to New York City's open streets program. The plan, highlighted in the report 'Realm of Possibility,' aims to 'lift some of the bureaucratic and cost hurdles faced by the largely volunteer open streets groups.' Key elements include lowering or waiving liability insurance for small events, standardizing maintenance agreements, and launching a 'Public Space Academy' to train organizers. Jim Burke, organizer for 34th Avenue, called for removing barriers to make the program equitable. Gib Veconi of Prospect Heights Neighborhood Development Council and Jackson Chabot of Open Plans both praised the reforms, citing burdensome permit processes and high costs as threats to open streets. The proposal responds to advocates' warnings that city policies have stifled car-free spaces, risking the loss of vital corridors for pedestrians and cyclists.
-
Someday, You May be Able to Activate Open Streets with Fewer City Hurdles,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-18
SUV Turns Left, Kills 63-Year-Old Cyclist in Queens▸A Ford SUV turned left at Bowne Street and 41st Avenue. A woman on a bike, age sixty-three, pedaled west. Steel struck flesh. She flew, her head hit pavement. She died alone, her bicycle twisted beside her.
According to the police report, a Ford SUV was making a left turn at the corner of 41st Avenue and Bowne Street in Queens when it struck a 63-year-old woman riding her bicycle westbound. The report states the SUV's driver was inattentive or distracted at the moment of impact. The cyclist was ejected from her bike, suffering fatal head injuries. The narrative notes, 'Her head struck pavement. She died there, alone on the asphalt, her bike crumpled beside her.' The contributing factor listed is 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' No contributing factors are attributed to the cyclist. The collision underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to pay attention, especially during turning movements at intersections.
Liu Opposes IOU Plan Criticizing Congestion Pricing Pause▸Albany lawmakers shut down a last-ditch MTA funding plan after Governor Hochul paused congestion pricing. No replacement for the lost $1 billion. Transit riders and street users face uncertainty. Lawmakers call the move reckless. The city waits. Danger lingers.
On June 7, 2024, the New York State legislative session ended without passing a replacement funding plan for the MTA after Governor Kathy Hochul paused congestion pricing. The matter, described as 'Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,' left the MTA without the $1 billion annual revenue congestion pricing would have provided. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins announced the session’s close without a deal. Lawmakers including State Sen. Andrew Gounardes, Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, State Sen. John Liu, Assemblyman Harvey Epstein, and Assemblyman Tony Simone criticized the governor’s decision and the proposed IOU bailout. Gounardes said, 'I cannot in good conscience ratify a decision that will eliminate a significant, dedicated revenue source for the MTA’s capital plan.' The pause leaves the city’s transit future—and the safety of those who rely on it—uncertain.
-
Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2024-06-07
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Top city officials broke ranks with Mayor Adams. They demanded congestion pricing after Governor Hochul’s sudden halt. MTA board members, planners, and transit chiefs warned of lost funding and stalled projects. They called the suspension a blow to transit and public safety.
On June 6, 2024, New York City officials issued strong statements supporting congestion pricing after Governor Hochul suspended the plan. The matter, titled 'City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,' saw Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi, MTA board member Midori Valdivia, City Planning Chair Dan Garodnick, DOT Chief of Staff Ryan Lynch, and public space czar Ya-Ting Liu all speak out. Valdivia warned, 'today it was announced, without MTA Board consultation, the cancellation of projects such as the Second Avenue Subway Phase II, our accessibility program... and a fully zero-emission bus fleet.' Joshi declared, 'It needs to happen now.' Garodnick cited a 'significant hole' in the MTA budget. Liu called congestion pricing 'the only policy' for transit and traffic. The New York City Independent Budget Office also warned of economic harm and delayed improvements. Mayor Adams, once a supporter, deferred to the governor, leaving vulnerable road users without promised transit upgrades.
-
City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-06
SUV Rear-Ends City Bus on Union Street▸A Lexus SUV crashed into the back of a city bus on Union Street. The SUV’s front crumpled. The 63-year-old driver suffered head trauma and crushed limbs. The bus stood firm. Following too closely led to blood and metal.
A violent collision unfolded on Union Street when a Lexus SUV rear-ended a city bus, according to the police report. The crash occurred as both vehicles traveled north. The SUV’s front end folded, and its sole occupant—a 63-year-old man—remained conscious despite sustaining head trauma and crush injuries. The police report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors, both attributed to the SUV driver. The bus, a 2016 New Flyer, showed no damage and its driver was uninjured. The report makes no mention of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The impact underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to maintain safe following distances and proper lane usage.
Transit advocates and unions demand a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. Mayor Adams stalls. Council Members Hudson and Joseph back the plan. Riders wait. Buses crawl. Working-class New Yorkers bear the brunt. The city delays. Streets stay dangerous. Justice deferred.
On July 10, 2024, a coalition of transit advocates and labor unions renewed calls for a Flatbush Avenue bus lane. The campaign, not tied to a specific council bill, has drawn support from Council Members Crystal Hudson and Rita Joseph. The matter, described as a 'no-brainer solution,' highlights slow bus speeds—often under 5 mph—and the urgent need for safer, faster transit. Jolyse Race of Riders Alliance stressed the economic justice at stake, noting bus riders earn half as much as car owners. Mayor Eric Adams has withheld support, citing community engagement and raising concerns about gentrification. The Department of Transportation's plans have stalled under his administration. Healthcare workers and union leaders spoke of missed shifts and unreliable service. Advocates now plan to survey bus riders to show support. No formal safety analysis was provided, but the campaign centers the needs of vulnerable bus riders and pedestrians.
- Bus Advocates Renew Push For Flatbush Avenue Bus Lane Despite Mayor’s Lack of Support, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2024-07-10
Distracted Driver Turns, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian Head-On▸A Toyota sedan turned left on 32nd Avenue and struck a 77-year-old woman crossing with the light. The car’s front bumper caught her head-on. She bled from the head but stayed conscious. Driver inattention marked the crash.
According to the police report, a 77-year-old woman was crossing 32nd Avenue at an intersection, walking with the signal, when a Toyota sedan making a left turn struck her head-on. The report states the vehicle’s front bumper hit her directly, causing severe bleeding from her head. The woman remained conscious at the scene. Police cite 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the primary contributing factor. The driver was reportedly distracted at the time of the collision. The police narrative confirms the pedestrian was crossing with the light, emphasizing that driver error—specifically distraction—led to the impact. No contributing factors are attributed to the pedestrian’s actions.
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Open Streets Permit Reforms▸City hall wants to strip red tape from open streets. The plan slashes insurance demands and trains new groups. Advocates say high costs and paperwork choke car-free events. The move could revive lost corridors and let more New Yorkers reclaim the road.
On June 18, 2024, Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu released a report proposing major reforms to New York City's open streets program. The plan, highlighted in the report 'Realm of Possibility,' aims to 'lift some of the bureaucratic and cost hurdles faced by the largely volunteer open streets groups.' Key elements include lowering or waiving liability insurance for small events, standardizing maintenance agreements, and launching a 'Public Space Academy' to train organizers. Jim Burke, organizer for 34th Avenue, called for removing barriers to make the program equitable. Gib Veconi of Prospect Heights Neighborhood Development Council and Jackson Chabot of Open Plans both praised the reforms, citing burdensome permit processes and high costs as threats to open streets. The proposal responds to advocates' warnings that city policies have stifled car-free spaces, risking the loss of vital corridors for pedestrians and cyclists.
-
Someday, You May be Able to Activate Open Streets with Fewer City Hurdles,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-18
SUV Turns Left, Kills 63-Year-Old Cyclist in Queens▸A Ford SUV turned left at Bowne Street and 41st Avenue. A woman on a bike, age sixty-three, pedaled west. Steel struck flesh. She flew, her head hit pavement. She died alone, her bicycle twisted beside her.
According to the police report, a Ford SUV was making a left turn at the corner of 41st Avenue and Bowne Street in Queens when it struck a 63-year-old woman riding her bicycle westbound. The report states the SUV's driver was inattentive or distracted at the moment of impact. The cyclist was ejected from her bike, suffering fatal head injuries. The narrative notes, 'Her head struck pavement. She died there, alone on the asphalt, her bike crumpled beside her.' The contributing factor listed is 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' No contributing factors are attributed to the cyclist. The collision underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to pay attention, especially during turning movements at intersections.
Liu Opposes IOU Plan Criticizing Congestion Pricing Pause▸Albany lawmakers shut down a last-ditch MTA funding plan after Governor Hochul paused congestion pricing. No replacement for the lost $1 billion. Transit riders and street users face uncertainty. Lawmakers call the move reckless. The city waits. Danger lingers.
On June 7, 2024, the New York State legislative session ended without passing a replacement funding plan for the MTA after Governor Kathy Hochul paused congestion pricing. The matter, described as 'Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,' left the MTA without the $1 billion annual revenue congestion pricing would have provided. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins announced the session’s close without a deal. Lawmakers including State Sen. Andrew Gounardes, Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, State Sen. John Liu, Assemblyman Harvey Epstein, and Assemblyman Tony Simone criticized the governor’s decision and the proposed IOU bailout. Gounardes said, 'I cannot in good conscience ratify a decision that will eliminate a significant, dedicated revenue source for the MTA’s capital plan.' The pause leaves the city’s transit future—and the safety of those who rely on it—uncertain.
-
Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2024-06-07
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Top city officials broke ranks with Mayor Adams. They demanded congestion pricing after Governor Hochul’s sudden halt. MTA board members, planners, and transit chiefs warned of lost funding and stalled projects. They called the suspension a blow to transit and public safety.
On June 6, 2024, New York City officials issued strong statements supporting congestion pricing after Governor Hochul suspended the plan. The matter, titled 'City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,' saw Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi, MTA board member Midori Valdivia, City Planning Chair Dan Garodnick, DOT Chief of Staff Ryan Lynch, and public space czar Ya-Ting Liu all speak out. Valdivia warned, 'today it was announced, without MTA Board consultation, the cancellation of projects such as the Second Avenue Subway Phase II, our accessibility program... and a fully zero-emission bus fleet.' Joshi declared, 'It needs to happen now.' Garodnick cited a 'significant hole' in the MTA budget. Liu called congestion pricing 'the only policy' for transit and traffic. The New York City Independent Budget Office also warned of economic harm and delayed improvements. Mayor Adams, once a supporter, deferred to the governor, leaving vulnerable road users without promised transit upgrades.
-
City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-06
SUV Rear-Ends City Bus on Union Street▸A Lexus SUV crashed into the back of a city bus on Union Street. The SUV’s front crumpled. The 63-year-old driver suffered head trauma and crushed limbs. The bus stood firm. Following too closely led to blood and metal.
A violent collision unfolded on Union Street when a Lexus SUV rear-ended a city bus, according to the police report. The crash occurred as both vehicles traveled north. The SUV’s front end folded, and its sole occupant—a 63-year-old man—remained conscious despite sustaining head trauma and crush injuries. The police report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors, both attributed to the SUV driver. The bus, a 2016 New Flyer, showed no damage and its driver was uninjured. The report makes no mention of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The impact underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to maintain safe following distances and proper lane usage.
A Toyota sedan turned left on 32nd Avenue and struck a 77-year-old woman crossing with the light. The car’s front bumper caught her head-on. She bled from the head but stayed conscious. Driver inattention marked the crash.
According to the police report, a 77-year-old woman was crossing 32nd Avenue at an intersection, walking with the signal, when a Toyota sedan making a left turn struck her head-on. The report states the vehicle’s front bumper hit her directly, causing severe bleeding from her head. The woman remained conscious at the scene. Police cite 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the primary contributing factor. The driver was reportedly distracted at the time of the collision. The police narrative confirms the pedestrian was crossing with the light, emphasizing that driver error—specifically distraction—led to the impact. No contributing factors are attributed to the pedestrian’s actions.
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Open Streets Permit Reforms▸City hall wants to strip red tape from open streets. The plan slashes insurance demands and trains new groups. Advocates say high costs and paperwork choke car-free events. The move could revive lost corridors and let more New Yorkers reclaim the road.
On June 18, 2024, Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu released a report proposing major reforms to New York City's open streets program. The plan, highlighted in the report 'Realm of Possibility,' aims to 'lift some of the bureaucratic and cost hurdles faced by the largely volunteer open streets groups.' Key elements include lowering or waiving liability insurance for small events, standardizing maintenance agreements, and launching a 'Public Space Academy' to train organizers. Jim Burke, organizer for 34th Avenue, called for removing barriers to make the program equitable. Gib Veconi of Prospect Heights Neighborhood Development Council and Jackson Chabot of Open Plans both praised the reforms, citing burdensome permit processes and high costs as threats to open streets. The proposal responds to advocates' warnings that city policies have stifled car-free spaces, risking the loss of vital corridors for pedestrians and cyclists.
-
Someday, You May be Able to Activate Open Streets with Fewer City Hurdles,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-18
SUV Turns Left, Kills 63-Year-Old Cyclist in Queens▸A Ford SUV turned left at Bowne Street and 41st Avenue. A woman on a bike, age sixty-three, pedaled west. Steel struck flesh. She flew, her head hit pavement. She died alone, her bicycle twisted beside her.
According to the police report, a Ford SUV was making a left turn at the corner of 41st Avenue and Bowne Street in Queens when it struck a 63-year-old woman riding her bicycle westbound. The report states the SUV's driver was inattentive or distracted at the moment of impact. The cyclist was ejected from her bike, suffering fatal head injuries. The narrative notes, 'Her head struck pavement. She died there, alone on the asphalt, her bike crumpled beside her.' The contributing factor listed is 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' No contributing factors are attributed to the cyclist. The collision underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to pay attention, especially during turning movements at intersections.
Liu Opposes IOU Plan Criticizing Congestion Pricing Pause▸Albany lawmakers shut down a last-ditch MTA funding plan after Governor Hochul paused congestion pricing. No replacement for the lost $1 billion. Transit riders and street users face uncertainty. Lawmakers call the move reckless. The city waits. Danger lingers.
On June 7, 2024, the New York State legislative session ended without passing a replacement funding plan for the MTA after Governor Kathy Hochul paused congestion pricing. The matter, described as 'Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,' left the MTA without the $1 billion annual revenue congestion pricing would have provided. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins announced the session’s close without a deal. Lawmakers including State Sen. Andrew Gounardes, Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, State Sen. John Liu, Assemblyman Harvey Epstein, and Assemblyman Tony Simone criticized the governor’s decision and the proposed IOU bailout. Gounardes said, 'I cannot in good conscience ratify a decision that will eliminate a significant, dedicated revenue source for the MTA’s capital plan.' The pause leaves the city’s transit future—and the safety of those who rely on it—uncertain.
-
Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2024-06-07
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Top city officials broke ranks with Mayor Adams. They demanded congestion pricing after Governor Hochul’s sudden halt. MTA board members, planners, and transit chiefs warned of lost funding and stalled projects. They called the suspension a blow to transit and public safety.
On June 6, 2024, New York City officials issued strong statements supporting congestion pricing after Governor Hochul suspended the plan. The matter, titled 'City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,' saw Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi, MTA board member Midori Valdivia, City Planning Chair Dan Garodnick, DOT Chief of Staff Ryan Lynch, and public space czar Ya-Ting Liu all speak out. Valdivia warned, 'today it was announced, without MTA Board consultation, the cancellation of projects such as the Second Avenue Subway Phase II, our accessibility program... and a fully zero-emission bus fleet.' Joshi declared, 'It needs to happen now.' Garodnick cited a 'significant hole' in the MTA budget. Liu called congestion pricing 'the only policy' for transit and traffic. The New York City Independent Budget Office also warned of economic harm and delayed improvements. Mayor Adams, once a supporter, deferred to the governor, leaving vulnerable road users without promised transit upgrades.
-
City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-06
SUV Rear-Ends City Bus on Union Street▸A Lexus SUV crashed into the back of a city bus on Union Street. The SUV’s front crumpled. The 63-year-old driver suffered head trauma and crushed limbs. The bus stood firm. Following too closely led to blood and metal.
A violent collision unfolded on Union Street when a Lexus SUV rear-ended a city bus, according to the police report. The crash occurred as both vehicles traveled north. The SUV’s front end folded, and its sole occupant—a 63-year-old man—remained conscious despite sustaining head trauma and crush injuries. The police report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors, both attributed to the SUV driver. The bus, a 2016 New Flyer, showed no damage and its driver was uninjured. The report makes no mention of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The impact underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to maintain safe following distances and proper lane usage.
City hall wants to strip red tape from open streets. The plan slashes insurance demands and trains new groups. Advocates say high costs and paperwork choke car-free events. The move could revive lost corridors and let more New Yorkers reclaim the road.
On June 18, 2024, Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu released a report proposing major reforms to New York City's open streets program. The plan, highlighted in the report 'Realm of Possibility,' aims to 'lift some of the bureaucratic and cost hurdles faced by the largely volunteer open streets groups.' Key elements include lowering or waiving liability insurance for small events, standardizing maintenance agreements, and launching a 'Public Space Academy' to train organizers. Jim Burke, organizer for 34th Avenue, called for removing barriers to make the program equitable. Gib Veconi of Prospect Heights Neighborhood Development Council and Jackson Chabot of Open Plans both praised the reforms, citing burdensome permit processes and high costs as threats to open streets. The proposal responds to advocates' warnings that city policies have stifled car-free spaces, risking the loss of vital corridors for pedestrians and cyclists.
- Someday, You May be Able to Activate Open Streets with Fewer City Hurdles, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2024-06-18
SUV Turns Left, Kills 63-Year-Old Cyclist in Queens▸A Ford SUV turned left at Bowne Street and 41st Avenue. A woman on a bike, age sixty-three, pedaled west. Steel struck flesh. She flew, her head hit pavement. She died alone, her bicycle twisted beside her.
According to the police report, a Ford SUV was making a left turn at the corner of 41st Avenue and Bowne Street in Queens when it struck a 63-year-old woman riding her bicycle westbound. The report states the SUV's driver was inattentive or distracted at the moment of impact. The cyclist was ejected from her bike, suffering fatal head injuries. The narrative notes, 'Her head struck pavement. She died there, alone on the asphalt, her bike crumpled beside her.' The contributing factor listed is 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' No contributing factors are attributed to the cyclist. The collision underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to pay attention, especially during turning movements at intersections.
Liu Opposes IOU Plan Criticizing Congestion Pricing Pause▸Albany lawmakers shut down a last-ditch MTA funding plan after Governor Hochul paused congestion pricing. No replacement for the lost $1 billion. Transit riders and street users face uncertainty. Lawmakers call the move reckless. The city waits. Danger lingers.
On June 7, 2024, the New York State legislative session ended without passing a replacement funding plan for the MTA after Governor Kathy Hochul paused congestion pricing. The matter, described as 'Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,' left the MTA without the $1 billion annual revenue congestion pricing would have provided. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins announced the session’s close without a deal. Lawmakers including State Sen. Andrew Gounardes, Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, State Sen. John Liu, Assemblyman Harvey Epstein, and Assemblyman Tony Simone criticized the governor’s decision and the proposed IOU bailout. Gounardes said, 'I cannot in good conscience ratify a decision that will eliminate a significant, dedicated revenue source for the MTA’s capital plan.' The pause leaves the city’s transit future—and the safety of those who rely on it—uncertain.
-
Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2024-06-07
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Top city officials broke ranks with Mayor Adams. They demanded congestion pricing after Governor Hochul’s sudden halt. MTA board members, planners, and transit chiefs warned of lost funding and stalled projects. They called the suspension a blow to transit and public safety.
On June 6, 2024, New York City officials issued strong statements supporting congestion pricing after Governor Hochul suspended the plan. The matter, titled 'City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,' saw Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi, MTA board member Midori Valdivia, City Planning Chair Dan Garodnick, DOT Chief of Staff Ryan Lynch, and public space czar Ya-Ting Liu all speak out. Valdivia warned, 'today it was announced, without MTA Board consultation, the cancellation of projects such as the Second Avenue Subway Phase II, our accessibility program... and a fully zero-emission bus fleet.' Joshi declared, 'It needs to happen now.' Garodnick cited a 'significant hole' in the MTA budget. Liu called congestion pricing 'the only policy' for transit and traffic. The New York City Independent Budget Office also warned of economic harm and delayed improvements. Mayor Adams, once a supporter, deferred to the governor, leaving vulnerable road users without promised transit upgrades.
-
City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-06
SUV Rear-Ends City Bus on Union Street▸A Lexus SUV crashed into the back of a city bus on Union Street. The SUV’s front crumpled. The 63-year-old driver suffered head trauma and crushed limbs. The bus stood firm. Following too closely led to blood and metal.
A violent collision unfolded on Union Street when a Lexus SUV rear-ended a city bus, according to the police report. The crash occurred as both vehicles traveled north. The SUV’s front end folded, and its sole occupant—a 63-year-old man—remained conscious despite sustaining head trauma and crush injuries. The police report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors, both attributed to the SUV driver. The bus, a 2016 New Flyer, showed no damage and its driver was uninjured. The report makes no mention of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The impact underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to maintain safe following distances and proper lane usage.
A Ford SUV turned left at Bowne Street and 41st Avenue. A woman on a bike, age sixty-three, pedaled west. Steel struck flesh. She flew, her head hit pavement. She died alone, her bicycle twisted beside her.
According to the police report, a Ford SUV was making a left turn at the corner of 41st Avenue and Bowne Street in Queens when it struck a 63-year-old woman riding her bicycle westbound. The report states the SUV's driver was inattentive or distracted at the moment of impact. The cyclist was ejected from her bike, suffering fatal head injuries. The narrative notes, 'Her head struck pavement. She died there, alone on the asphalt, her bike crumpled beside her.' The contributing factor listed is 'Driver Inattention/Distraction.' No contributing factors are attributed to the cyclist. The collision underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to pay attention, especially during turning movements at intersections.
Liu Opposes IOU Plan Criticizing Congestion Pricing Pause▸Albany lawmakers shut down a last-ditch MTA funding plan after Governor Hochul paused congestion pricing. No replacement for the lost $1 billion. Transit riders and street users face uncertainty. Lawmakers call the move reckless. The city waits. Danger lingers.
On June 7, 2024, the New York State legislative session ended without passing a replacement funding plan for the MTA after Governor Kathy Hochul paused congestion pricing. The matter, described as 'Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,' left the MTA without the $1 billion annual revenue congestion pricing would have provided. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins announced the session’s close without a deal. Lawmakers including State Sen. Andrew Gounardes, Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, State Sen. John Liu, Assemblyman Harvey Epstein, and Assemblyman Tony Simone criticized the governor’s decision and the proposed IOU bailout. Gounardes said, 'I cannot in good conscience ratify a decision that will eliminate a significant, dedicated revenue source for the MTA’s capital plan.' The pause leaves the city’s transit future—and the safety of those who rely on it—uncertain.
-
Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2024-06-07
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Top city officials broke ranks with Mayor Adams. They demanded congestion pricing after Governor Hochul’s sudden halt. MTA board members, planners, and transit chiefs warned of lost funding and stalled projects. They called the suspension a blow to transit and public safety.
On June 6, 2024, New York City officials issued strong statements supporting congestion pricing after Governor Hochul suspended the plan. The matter, titled 'City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,' saw Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi, MTA board member Midori Valdivia, City Planning Chair Dan Garodnick, DOT Chief of Staff Ryan Lynch, and public space czar Ya-Ting Liu all speak out. Valdivia warned, 'today it was announced, without MTA Board consultation, the cancellation of projects such as the Second Avenue Subway Phase II, our accessibility program... and a fully zero-emission bus fleet.' Joshi declared, 'It needs to happen now.' Garodnick cited a 'significant hole' in the MTA budget. Liu called congestion pricing 'the only policy' for transit and traffic. The New York City Independent Budget Office also warned of economic harm and delayed improvements. Mayor Adams, once a supporter, deferred to the governor, leaving vulnerable road users without promised transit upgrades.
-
City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-06
SUV Rear-Ends City Bus on Union Street▸A Lexus SUV crashed into the back of a city bus on Union Street. The SUV’s front crumpled. The 63-year-old driver suffered head trauma and crushed limbs. The bus stood firm. Following too closely led to blood and metal.
A violent collision unfolded on Union Street when a Lexus SUV rear-ended a city bus, according to the police report. The crash occurred as both vehicles traveled north. The SUV’s front end folded, and its sole occupant—a 63-year-old man—remained conscious despite sustaining head trauma and crush injuries. The police report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors, both attributed to the SUV driver. The bus, a 2016 New Flyer, showed no damage and its driver was uninjured. The report makes no mention of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The impact underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to maintain safe following distances and proper lane usage.
Albany lawmakers shut down a last-ditch MTA funding plan after Governor Hochul paused congestion pricing. No replacement for the lost $1 billion. Transit riders and street users face uncertainty. Lawmakers call the move reckless. The city waits. Danger lingers.
On June 7, 2024, the New York State legislative session ended without passing a replacement funding plan for the MTA after Governor Kathy Hochul paused congestion pricing. The matter, described as 'Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing,' left the MTA without the $1 billion annual revenue congestion pricing would have provided. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins announced the session’s close without a deal. Lawmakers including State Sen. Andrew Gounardes, Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, State Sen. John Liu, Assemblyman Harvey Epstein, and Assemblyman Tony Simone criticized the governor’s decision and the proposed IOU bailout. Gounardes said, 'I cannot in good conscience ratify a decision that will eliminate a significant, dedicated revenue source for the MTA’s capital plan.' The pause leaves the city’s transit future—and the safety of those who rely on it—uncertain.
- Albany pumps the brakes on MTA funding plan in rebuke of Hochul’s move to ditch congestion pricing, nypost.com, Published 2024-06-07
Liu Supports Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing Plan▸Top city officials broke ranks with Mayor Adams. They demanded congestion pricing after Governor Hochul’s sudden halt. MTA board members, planners, and transit chiefs warned of lost funding and stalled projects. They called the suspension a blow to transit and public safety.
On June 6, 2024, New York City officials issued strong statements supporting congestion pricing after Governor Hochul suspended the plan. The matter, titled 'City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,' saw Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi, MTA board member Midori Valdivia, City Planning Chair Dan Garodnick, DOT Chief of Staff Ryan Lynch, and public space czar Ya-Ting Liu all speak out. Valdivia warned, 'today it was announced, without MTA Board consultation, the cancellation of projects such as the Second Avenue Subway Phase II, our accessibility program... and a fully zero-emission bus fleet.' Joshi declared, 'It needs to happen now.' Garodnick cited a 'significant hole' in the MTA budget. Liu called congestion pricing 'the only policy' for transit and traffic. The New York City Independent Budget Office also warned of economic harm and delayed improvements. Mayor Adams, once a supporter, deferred to the governor, leaving vulnerable road users without promised transit upgrades.
-
City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2024-06-06
SUV Rear-Ends City Bus on Union Street▸A Lexus SUV crashed into the back of a city bus on Union Street. The SUV’s front crumpled. The 63-year-old driver suffered head trauma and crushed limbs. The bus stood firm. Following too closely led to blood and metal.
A violent collision unfolded on Union Street when a Lexus SUV rear-ended a city bus, according to the police report. The crash occurred as both vehicles traveled north. The SUV’s front end folded, and its sole occupant—a 63-year-old man—remained conscious despite sustaining head trauma and crush injuries. The police report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors, both attributed to the SUV driver. The bus, a 2016 New Flyer, showed no damage and its driver was uninjured. The report makes no mention of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The impact underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to maintain safe following distances and proper lane usage.
Top city officials broke ranks with Mayor Adams. They demanded congestion pricing after Governor Hochul’s sudden halt. MTA board members, planners, and transit chiefs warned of lost funding and stalled projects. They called the suspension a blow to transit and public safety.
On June 6, 2024, New York City officials issued strong statements supporting congestion pricing after Governor Hochul suspended the plan. The matter, titled 'City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul,' saw Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi, MTA board member Midori Valdivia, City Planning Chair Dan Garodnick, DOT Chief of Staff Ryan Lynch, and public space czar Ya-Ting Liu all speak out. Valdivia warned, 'today it was announced, without MTA Board consultation, the cancellation of projects such as the Second Avenue Subway Phase II, our accessibility program... and a fully zero-emission bus fleet.' Joshi declared, 'It needs to happen now.' Garodnick cited a 'significant hole' in the MTA budget. Liu called congestion pricing 'the only policy' for transit and traffic. The New York City Independent Budget Office also warned of economic harm and delayed improvements. Mayor Adams, once a supporter, deferred to the governor, leaving vulnerable road users without promised transit upgrades.
- City Officials Demand Congestion Pricing Despite Eric Adams’s Deference to Hochul, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2024-06-06
SUV Rear-Ends City Bus on Union Street▸A Lexus SUV crashed into the back of a city bus on Union Street. The SUV’s front crumpled. The 63-year-old driver suffered head trauma and crushed limbs. The bus stood firm. Following too closely led to blood and metal.
A violent collision unfolded on Union Street when a Lexus SUV rear-ended a city bus, according to the police report. The crash occurred as both vehicles traveled north. The SUV’s front end folded, and its sole occupant—a 63-year-old man—remained conscious despite sustaining head trauma and crush injuries. The police report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors, both attributed to the SUV driver. The bus, a 2016 New Flyer, showed no damage and its driver was uninjured. The report makes no mention of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The impact underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to maintain safe following distances and proper lane usage.
A Lexus SUV crashed into the back of a city bus on Union Street. The SUV’s front crumpled. The 63-year-old driver suffered head trauma and crushed limbs. The bus stood firm. Following too closely led to blood and metal.
A violent collision unfolded on Union Street when a Lexus SUV rear-ended a city bus, according to the police report. The crash occurred as both vehicles traveled north. The SUV’s front end folded, and its sole occupant—a 63-year-old man—remained conscious despite sustaining head trauma and crush injuries. The police report lists 'Following Too Closely' and 'Passing or Lane Usage Improper' as contributing factors, both attributed to the SUV driver. The bus, a 2016 New Flyer, showed no damage and its driver was uninjured. The report makes no mention of any victim behavior contributing to the crash. The impact underscores the lethal consequences when drivers fail to maintain safe following distances and proper lane usage.