Open Plans Reacts To Broadway Crash with Call for Swift Action
“DOT should not cater to the whims of loud voices
prioritizing free parking over life-saving measures”
NEW YORK — Following the latest violent traffic incident, where the driver of a cab jumped the curb on Broadway at 29th in Manhattan and struck a cyclist and three pedestrians, Sara Lind, Director of Policy at Open Plans, released the following statement:
“This most recent crash underscores what we already know - New York City’s traffic violence is at crisis levels. Pedestrians and cyclists are in harm’s way because our streets force them to share space with reckless drivers and unmitigated vehicular traffic.”
“This tragedy is an immediate consequence of the City’s failure to dismantle car culture. Hundreds of New Yorkers are killed each year in car crashes, but too often we ignore the 50,000 lives that are permanently altered by traffic violence. Thoughts and prayers are not helpful; we need design and policy changes.”
“Open Plans has aggressively pursued action that, if adopted, would directly address traffic violence, including:
Sammy’s Law, which would allow for local control of speed limits
Escalating penalties for camera-based infractions, which is proven to decrease reckless driving at monitored intersections
A stronger Dangerous Vehicle Abatement Program, getting New York’s most dangerous drivers off the road
In addition to key legislation, there are ways the City can immediately increase safety on our streets. We need prioritization and completion of Mayor Adams’ promise to redesign 1,000 Intersections and full pedestrianization of Broadway.”
“This moment also underscores weaknesses in the processes used to make vital changes to streets. While input is important, unelected bodies like community boards too often stand in the way of critical safety improvements. DOT should not cater to the whims of loud voices prioritizing free parking over life-saving measures. When it comes to safety, we need bold and autonomous action.”
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