Amsterdam Avenue is one step closer to getting a protected bike lane, and tonight, the DOT will present its plans for the forthcoming overhaul of the notoriously deadly road.
According to a press release, the first phase of the proposal will include installing a parking protected bike lane northbound on West 72nd Street to West 110th Street, along with pedestrian safety islands. DOT is also proposing left turn lanes at West 79th, 86th and 96th streets, as well as split phase traffic signals to allow pedestrians and cyclists a head start before cars begin moving.
Between 2009 and 2013, this particular stretch Amsterdam Avenue was the site of 36 severe injuries and two fatalities.
“NYCDOT is proud to unveil our proposal for a safer and more livable Amsterdam Avenue, including a protected bike lane and other safety designs,” DOT Commissioner Polly Trottenberg said in a statement. “We look forward to working with the local community and elected officials in the coming months to make this vision a reality on the Upper West Side.”
Last January, 44-year-old Guler Ugur-Yaacobi was crossing Amsterdam Avenue at West 113th Street when she was fatally struck by an SUV traveling northbound. Locals blamed green light waves, which they say created a racetrack-like atmosphere among drivers.
"These people drive fast, because traffic lights are very-well synchronized," a resident said. "It's like you're crossing a freeway."
The Community Board 7 Transportation Committee meeting will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Redeemer Church, located 150 West 83rd Street between Amsterdam and Columbus avenues.
