Hosted by the Department of Transportation
Wednesday, May 21, 2014 6:30-8:00 pm
Bohemian Hall, 29-19 24th Avenue, Astoria, Queens
Thursday, May 29, 2014 6:30-8:00 pm
Jamaica Performing Arts Center, 153-10 Jamaica Ave, Jamaica, Queens
Click here for fliers in English and Spanish.
From the city’s announcement: “Come to this interactive workshop to learn more about Vision Zero and tell us about conditions in the neighborhoods you live in, work and visit. Give specific suggestions or concerns, participate in mapping activities to pinpoint issues, and join in small discussion groups moderated by DOT and NYPD staff. Your input will aid in identifying street safety projects.”
So far in 2014, according to the latest data from NYPD, more than 777 pedestrians, 145 cyclists, and 2261 motor vehicle occupants have been injured in motor vehicle crashes on the streets of Queens, and fourteen pedestrians, one cyclist, and five motorists have been killed. Seniors and children are especially vulnerable, but the victims of these crashes cut across all divides of age, class, ethnicity, and geography.
These deaths and debilitating injuries suffered by our neighbors were not inevitable. We know from experience in New York City and around the world that better street designs, meaningful traffic enforcement, and effective education for both drivers and pedestrians can sharply reduce the tremendous harm that motor vehicle crashes cause to our communities every day. Mayor de Blasio’s comprehensive “Vision Zero” street safety initiative blends all three approaches – engineering, education, and enforcement – with a goal of reducing traffic fatalities in NYC to zero in ten years.
At the start of this process, the City Council, the NYPD, the Department of Transportation, and other agencies are sponsoring workshops throughout the city to collect public input on pedestrian and traffic safety hazards and possible solutions. Two are scheduled for Queens: one on Wednesday May 21 in Astoria and another on Thursday May 29 in Jamaica. The results of these workshops will help the city begin to establish its street improvement priorities for years to come. Facilitated discussion groups will be available in English, Spanish, Cantonese, and Mandarin.