Many residents and park-goers have been worried about the incredible dangers of the approach to Brooklyn Bridge Park’s new Pier 6. The Cobble Hill Association responded quickly, speaking with local elected officials to urge the Department of Transportation to implement changes immediately, and plan a safer approach for the future.
Word came through this State Senator Daniel Squadron’s office that help is on the way because DOT has ‘heard his and our constituents’ cries for improved safety’. DOT outlined the following steps in response.
-“Stop Here on Red” sign on Atlantic Avenue at the eastbound approach to the on-ramp, to communicate to drivers that they do not have a free left turn when the light ahead is red and the pedestrian indication across the ramp is WALK.-“Turning Vehicles Yield to Pedestrians” sign on Atlantic Avenue at the westbound approach to the on-ramp, to emphasize to drivers that they must yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk.– Conducting a traffic study to determine if further signal or regulation changes that will reduce vehicle-pedestrian conflicts at this location are feasible. Additional recommendations will be shared publicly in near future.– Evaluating medium term opportunities for more significant reconfigurations to the street network around Pier 6 that will assist with bicycle and pedestrian park access, including the intersection of Columbia Street and Atlantic Avenue, and Atlantic Avenue west of Columbia Street.
The Cobble Hill Association appreciates DOT’s response and feels the changes cannot come quick enough. While the simple signage change may not be a game-changer, the “Stop Here on Red” adjustment could be significant now… and the future plans could prove immensely effective. Without a doubt we will stay on top of the situation.