Pols call for better protection of Coney Boardwalk in wake of recent terror attack

Two southern Brooklyn pols have renewed their call for the implementation of pedestrian safety upgrades for the storied Coney Island Riegelmann Boardwalk.

The push – being led by Councilmembers Mark Treyger and Chaim Deutsch – comes in the wake of the recent terrorist attack in lower Manhattan on October 31 in which eight people lost their lives after a vehicle was used as a weapon against pedestrians and cyclists. In letters addressed to Mayor Bill de Blasio, Police Commissioner James O’Neill and Parks Commissioner Mitchell Silver, the duo has asked the city to install retractable fortified bollards at appropriate entry points to the Boardwalk, restricting access to city or authorized vehicles only.

“New York City faces a variety of threats and our city always strives to be prepared—in fact, the NYPD has foiled many meticulously planned terrorist attacks,” said Treyger. “But this attack has amplified the need for more precautions, including barriers, especially at our city’s densely populated and well-known tourist attractions. As we’ve sadly seen – both in our own city and on an international level – vehicles are increasingly being used in high pedestrian traffic areas as weapons to attack the public.”

“[The] attack has demonstrated that we must be ultra-vigilant, and take necessary precautions to protect New Yorkers,” added Deutsch. “Retractable safety bollards would provide security on the Boardwalk from the threat of vehicle attacks. Tragically, this is a method of attack that is growing increasingly common, and we have a duty to ensure that we are making every effort to protect residents and visitors to our city.”

The Boardwalk — first opened in 1923 — attracts masses well beyond the summer season.

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