De Blasio Signs New Pedestrian Safety Laws
De Blasio Signs New Pedestrian Safety Laws
The new laws are part of the mayor's fight to reduce pedestrian fatalities
A sign at Northern Boulevard and 61st Street in Queens says "Obey Traffic Laws." Behind it sits a new pedestrian island designed to make it safer to cross this busy traffic artery. And it was near this intersection that New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio signed 11 pedestrian safety bills into law as part of his "Vision Zero" plan to reduce traffic fatalities.
"I have to say that these bills will do so many important things to protect New Yorkers," said Mayor de Blasio.
The new laws address a variety of safety problems. They require the city department of transportation to study issues like left turns and better traffic signals. They also prohibit stunt motorcycle driving and introduce slow zones around schools.
Pedestrian islands like the one at Northern Blvd and 61st street in Woodside, Queens, will be extended all the way to 102nd street.
