DOT to install enhanced sidewalks at Bensonhurst corners

January 24, 2017 By Paula Katinas Brooklyn Daily Eagle

The Department of Transportation, which is installing safety features at Bensonhurst intersections, is also taking a look at the Borough Park corner where New Utrecht Avenue, 12th Avenue and 50th Street meet. Eagle photo by Paula Katinas

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Three busy Bensonhurst intersections will be getting safety features, including enhanced crosswalks, thanks to the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT), which will be installing the new measures in the community over the next few months.

Councilmember David Greenfield (D-Borough Park-Midwood-Bensonhurst) announced that DOT will be installing enhanced crosswalks at three intersections — 21st Avenue at 57th Street, 21st Avenue at 58th Street and 17th Avenue at 57th Street.

The enhanced crosswalks will also feature clear new signage directing drivers to yield to pedestrians.

In addition, DOT will be installing speed bumps along a seven-block stretch of 21st Avenue from 53rd Street to 60th Street.

DOT officials recently met with Greenfield and community leaders to discuss traffic and pedestrian safety in the neighborhood.

“Keeping our citizens safe is the most important job we have as elected officials. That’s why I fought to get these safety improvements. I’m proud that we were able to get it done,” Greenfield said in a statement.

The year 2016 “was the safest year on record” in terms of traffic, according to Greenfield, who said “Brooklyn led all boroughs in cutting down on traffic fatalities.” The councilmember added, however, “We can and must do better.”

Greenfield has already started working with DOT on getting safety measures put in place on 21st Avenue and said he is also is working with the agency to do the same for New Utrecht Avenue.

On 21st Avenue, hazard lights were installed to warn drivers about sharp curves. Outdated signage was removed. Greenfield said the city has also upgraded the streetlights to improve visibility and has opened up new parking spaces along the avenue.

In addition, major improvements are coming to the area where New Utrecht Avenue, 12th Avenue and 50th Street meet, according to Greenfield, who said that those measures will include enhanced crosswalks.

Barry Spitzer, district manager of Community Board 12, said the preliminary work has already begun.

“The Department of Design and Construction is already working on the design for this project with construction pending its completion. For years this location has been extremely dangerous and an object of confusion for motorists and pedestrians. I am pleased that Councilman Greenfield and I have been able to work with the Department of Transportation to make these necessary improvements,” Spitzer said in a statement.

“I will never stop fighting to keep our communities safe. That includes keeping our streets safe for drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians alike,” Greenfield said.