NYC Department of Transportation unveils new safety measures for Atlantic Avenue

BROOKLYN, N.Y. (PIX11) -- A series of short-term projects will enhance pedestrian safety on the western portion of Atlantic Avenue, the New York City Department of Transporation announced Tuesday. Enhancements will include expanded pedestrian space, new pedestrian islands, upgraded traffic signals, curb enhancements, and vehicle travel lane markings. “Atlantic Avenue serves as a critical regional [...]

BROOKLYN, N.Y. (PIX11) -- A series of short-term projects will enhance pedestrian safety on the western portion of Atlantic Avenue, the New York City Department of Transporation announced Tuesday.

Enhancements will include expanded pedestrian space, new pedestrian islands, upgraded traffic signals, curb enhancements, and vehicle travel lane markings.

“Atlantic Avenue serves as a critical regional connector and commercial corridor for New Yorkers. Through these upgrades, we will improve safety for everyone who uses this major street, helping to ease congestion and spur economic growth,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi.

The following projects are being considered:

• Mid-block crossings - these include a painted crosswalk and a new traffic signal. NYC DOT is studying locations for mid-block crossings, including between Clinton and Court Streets and Henry and Clinton Streets.
• Court Street and Atlantic Avenue signal adjustments - NYC DOT will update vehicle travel lane marking, implement signal changes, and expand pedestrian space.
• Columbia Street and Atlantic Avenue Street Improvement Project - this intersection project will enhance pedestrian safety for those accessing Brooklyn Bridge Park. New features would include two new concrete pedestrian islands and adding a southbound left turn from Furman Street to Atlantic Avenue to the signal phasing.
• Atlantic Avenue curb enhancements - the agency's goal is to reduce double parking, and conflicts between street users, and alleviate traffic congestion.

To date, work completed by the NYC DOT and the Department of Design and Construction between Pennsylvania Avenue and Logan Street has reduced pedestrian injuries by 39 percent and cyclist injuries by 14 percent, according to officials.