There has been talk of streetcars returning to New York streets for a long time (at least for five years), and now there's more chatter of them chugging through Brooklyn again. In May, Mayor Bloomberg was showing some support of their return, and the Department of Transportation was readying for a five-month study of a mile-long line from the Red Hook waterfront to the edge of Brooklyn Bridge Park. That study is now underway, the DoT announced yesterday. more ›

NY traffic casualties are down to their lowest since 1910, but watch out if you drive a Toyota (or are walking near one). Sticky gas pedals are causing the cars to speed out of control—now, after two recalls in the past two months the car company says it will stop making and selling eight models including favorites like the Camry and Corolla. The world's top automaker will temporarily halt operations at five plants "to assess and coordinate activities." Meanwhile, there are 2.3 million vehicles that need to be recalled. Toyota's vice-president called the action "necessary," adding that he's "making every effort to address this situation for our customers as quickly as possible." more ›

Gowanus Lounge reports on a sad sight in Park Slope, as "hideous architecture" and history prepare to collide once again. The old SEPTA trolley car which locals had high hopes of one day seeing turned into a diner...is being deconstructed to make way for a 12-story residential complex. Will the 4th Avenue landmark be headed to the landfill? Earlier this month Brownstoner noted the construction equipment appearing in the otherwise vacant lot and the owner of the trolley commented with its long and sordid history, as well as a glimmer of hope for the future. more ›