Assemblyman Sam Berger called on NYC Department of Transportation officials (NYC DOT) to conduct a walkthrough of Main Street of Kew Gardens Hills. Following persistent complaints since new traffic patterns, signage, and restrictions were imposed by the NYC DOT, Assemblyman Berger hosted transportation personnel for a walkthrough on Main Street to review unwelcome changes affecting the community. For nearly two hours, officials discussed and surveyed a litany of challenges afflicting the community which were forced by the DOT.
Among the issues raised was the removal of several parking spaces in front of Wasserman’s Supermarket and alterations to familiar traffic patterns with the encroachment of over-extended sidewalks. A major focus discussed was the crippling effects these imposed changes have had on seniors, disabled individuals, and kosher shoppers across the community.
“We have laid out the case and concerns of the residents of Kew Gardens Hills,” said Assemblyman Sam Berger. “The failure of DOT, at minimum, to discuss these alterations with affected small businesses prior to implementation is indicative of the wider breakdown of government agencies believing they are impervious to accountability. I will continue to push DOT and City government to reverse course; however, it is now on the DOT and NYC to hear the concerned voices of this community.”
By the end of the walkthrough, Assemblyman Berger made it clear that he would not stop advocating until the community saw some reversals. DOT agreed to return with their decision in a few weeks.
