DOT Proposes Traffic Calming and Safety Measures Near Pier 6

Responding to mounting pressure from residents, the Department of Transportation has proposed a series of traffic calming and pedestrian safety measures on streets that lead to Pier 6 of Brooklyn Bridge Park. Namely, Atlantic Avenue, Columbia Street and Furman Street.

In March, Councilmember Brad Lander circulated a petition calling on DOT to stay true to their promise to increase safety at the intersections leading to the park. 500 signatures were added.

"I’m pleased to report that DOT has put forward a plan to make safety improvements," said Councilmember Brad Lander in an email.

Changes include:

• The Atlantic Avenue/Furman Street intersection bus turnaround will be rerouted, and pedestrian space and crosswalks will be added.
• Signal timing and the “no right on red” sign at the BQE entrance on Atlantic Avenue will be changed to make the crosswalk safer for pedestrians. The use of a red light camera will be studied.
• The greenway/bike path will be removed from the sidewalk on the west side of Columbia Street.
• A crosswalk will be added at Columbia Street and the stop-light near the BQE entrance.
• The number of driving lanes will be reduced on Columbia Street between Atlantic Avenue and the entrance to the BQE.

All the changes and details can be viewed in the attached PDF file.

A spokesperson for the DOT said the proposed changes will better organize traffic while also improving safety and access to the park.

DOT plans to begin implementing the new measures this summer, and there is a public comment period open now. DOT representatives will meet with Community Board 6's Transportation Committee Thursday night at 6:30 p.m. at , 339 Hicks St., room A. Residents are encouraged to attend.