NYC DOT has begun to implement its Park Avenue Corridor Safety Improvements.  Changes include: reducing eastbound travel lanes from two to one to calm traffic, simplifying access to the parking areas under the BQE to reduce conflicts, and improving lane designations on the westbound approach at Ryerson to eliminate the dangerous 3 to 2 merge.  Parking spaces and parking regulations under the BQE will not be impacted.

These changes are a direct result of our Park Avenue Pedestrian Safety Plan, published after years of advocacy by MARP . We produced the Safety Plan in collaboration with Architecture for Humanity, building upon ideas gathered at community workshops, input from an Advisory Committee of local stakeholders, and guidance from DOT.  Over 1,000 people signed a petition in support of the plan.  This work was supported by the Brooklyn Community Foundation and the NYC Department of Small Business Services.

Statistically, Park Avenue is a “high crash corridor” (top third in crashes) where up to 75% of drivers exceed the speed limit.  Therefore, these changes signify a great step forward for Park Avenue, especially its residents and visitors, which include a large number of school-aged children. There is much more to be done, and we will continue to advocate for additional Park Avenue safety improvements and upgrades to the areas under the BQE.

DOT’s official “What’s Happening Here” flyer is below.