NYC Councilmember Stephen Levin, State Senator Daniel Squadron, and Assemblymember Joseph Lentol announced today that the Department of Transportation heeded their calls to install traffic signals along Kent Avenue in Williamsburg. The new traffic lights will be installed as a result of community support and advocacy and after the DOT concluded a three month study to determine the need for slowing traffic on Kent Avenue.

With residential and recreational development transforming North Brooklyn, the legislators and the community have long urged the City to study traffic and take steps to protect pedestrians and all users.

“I am so happy that DOT has completed their study and agreed with the community that Kent Avenue needs traffic lights,” said Councilmember Levin. “The installation of traffic lights along Kent Ave. at North 5th, 6th, and 7th Streets will make this neighborhood a safer place for all pedestrians and especially the children in the neighborhood. Along with Senator Squadron, Assemblyman Lentol and community leaders, I have been working hard to ensure that Williamsburg is a place where families don’t have to worry about cars speeding through the neighborhood. Today is a good day and I look forward to seeing these lights installed this spring.”

“For too long, crossing Kent has been simply harrowing. These traffic signals are an important step toward protecting residents and all users on Kent,” said Senator Squadron. “As North Brooklyn and its waterfront grow, these safety improvements must happen in tandem with development, not after. DOT deserves credit for heeding the community’s calls, and I look forward to continuing to work with the City and my colleagues on further upgrades to meet our community’s growing need.” Assemblymember Lentol said, “This is great news — one that helps ensure safety for our families. Crossing at these corners has been harrowing. Now, the way to the park will be a safe and enjoyable stroll.” The installation of the traffic signals – at North 5th, North 6th, and North 7th Streets – is tentatively scheduled to be completed by the end of May 2012.

(YWN Desk – NYC)