The NYC Progressive Caucus plans legislation to remove parking within 20 feet of crosswalks, replacing it with bike racks and other barriers. Proponents assert the bill enhances road safety and complies with a state directive. However, opposition arises, notably from city transportation officials who warn of potential increased injury rates due to speeding. The infrastructure changes are projected to cost $3 billion, requiring the installation of improvements at 1,000 intersections annually, with prior adjustments made at several hundred locations.
"This bill will make our streets exponentially safer for all: drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists," said Won, a caucus member whose district includes parking-challenged Long Island City.
During an April hearing on the legislation, city DOT officials cited an agency study that found increased visibility at intersections could encourage speeding and sharper turns.
DOT Deputy Commissioner Eric Beaton said, "If this ... were implemented citywide, we think we could expect an increase of up to 15,000 injuries in a year."
Installing bollards or other infrastructure blocking parking spaces at each of the city's roughly 40,000 intersections would cost $3 billion.
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