City Officials Address Traffic Safety Concerns in Atlantic Avenue Mixed-Use Plan

Local officials discussed the potential impacts of the Atlantic Avenue Mixed-Use Plan on traffic and pedestrian safety during a recent City Planning Commission (CPC) meeting. The plan aims to transform a stretch of Atlantic Avenue by improving housing availability, enhancing streetscapes, and increasing pedestrian accessibility.

Throughout the meeting, speakers emphasized the urgent need for traffic safety improvements along Atlantic Avenue, which many consider a dangerous corridor for pedestrians and cyclists. Residents reported high vehicle speeds and long crossing distances, describing the street as a significant barrier that limits access to essential community facilities like parks and libraries. Testimony highlighted these safety concerns, with one attendee noting that crossing the avenue often feels perilous due to the road’s current conditions (Source: https://youtu.be/mqSYOEY_fUw&t=11478; https://youtu.be/mqSYOEY_fUw&t=9898).

The proposed plan includes several initiatives aimed at mitigating these issues. The NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) will implement street safety enhancements, such as installing bike corrals, expanding sidewalks, and adding daylighting at intersections. These measures aim to improve visibility and accessibility for pedestrians (Source: https://youtu.be/mqSYOEY_fUw&t=454; https://youtu.be/EVyU9IbFhrw&t=3166).

Further discussions addressed the need for a comprehensive redesign of Atlantic Avenue, recognizing that simply increasing residential density without enhancing safety measures would not serve new residents well. A detailed traffic study is anticipated to evaluate potential long-term improvements, with a clear timeline and public engagement process planned as part of the initiative (Source: https://youtu.be/mqSYOEY_fUw&t=9898; https://youtu.be/EVyU9IbFhrw&t=3926).

Local officials also highlighted ongoing investments in nearby parks, particularly the renovation of St. Andrew’s playground, where over $24 million will be directed toward new recreational facilities and improvements (Source: https://youtu.be/mqSYOEY_fUw&t=454). These enhancements are designed to accommodate an expected influx of residents as a result of the mixed-use development, with community engagement being a key aspect of the planning process (Source: https://youtu.be/aJZfUGLYoaY&t=0).

Overall, the ongoing planning efforts exemplify a holistic approach that merges housing development with infrastructure improvements and community safety, aiming to create a more livable environment for current and future residents of the Atlantic Avenue corridor.