East Flatbush takes precautions to limit accidents

In efforts to combat driving accidents, Councilmember Jumaane Williams of the 45th District has announced that a traffic signal has been approved for the Avenue K and East 29th Street intersection and is expected to be completed by October 31.

Williams thanked the Department of Transportation (DOT) for their cooperation in the recent installation of a left-turn signal at the intersection of Kings Highway and Foster Avenue. The East Flatbush area has also gained Albany’s approval for speed cameras in the school zones.

“My thanks go to the DOT for their essential partnership in putting the safety of New Yorkers first,” stated Williams.

The area, titled the “East Flatbush Motorist Danger Zone,” is confined to Church Avenue on the north, Glenwood Avenue on the south, Utica Avenue on the west and Ralph Avenue on the east.

“Since I spoke out against the ‘East Flatbush Motorist Danger Zone’, this district has seen real progress made to reduce speeding and related violations that endanger motorists, pedestrians and cyclists,” said Williams.

Between August 2011 and February 2013 the danger zone witnessed three motorist and two pedestrian deaths, as well as 385 motorists, 69 pedestrians and 24 cyclists injuries, causing the elected official and community associations to call for improved traffic precautions.

Other than the current traffic light for the Avenue K intersection the councilmember does not have any specific future plans for the danger zone. Stefan Ringel, spokesperson for the councilmemeber stated that although Williams has for the most part has worked independently to combat the traffic issues, other elected officials are working on their own as well, such as Assemblywoman Helene Weinstein of Assembly District 41.

Hazel Martinez, president of the 4-in-1 Block Association praised Williams’ efforts stating, “His leadership and determination will most certainly reduce traffic accidents and save lives.”