Brooklyn DOT Commissioner inspects Ocean Parkway

September 18, 2015 By Paula Katinas Brooklyn Daily Eagle

Assemblymember Dov Hikind (center) and an aide meet with Brooklyn Transportation Commissioner Keith Bray (left) at the intersection of Ocean Parkway and Bay Parkway to discuss safety improvements. Photo courtesy of Hikind’s office

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A dangerous Midwood intersection is in line for safety improvements after Brooklyn Transportation Commissioner Keith Bray conducted an on-site inspection of the area.

Accompanied by Assemblymember Dov Hikind (D-Borough Park-Midwood), Bray took a close look at the intersection of Ocean Parkway and Bay Parkway on a recent morning.

At the on-site meeting, Bray told Hikind that the Department of Transportation (DOT) will be instituting various improvements at the busy intersection to enhance road safety. “I look forward to working with Commissioner Bray on this issue,” Hikind said.

Hikind, who had requested that Bray pay a visit to the intersection to see the situation first-hand, said many local residents told him the corner is dangerous for pedestrians and bike riders.

Drivers on Ocean Parkway who want to make the right turn to exit onto Bay Parkway run the risk of hitting pedestrians or bicyclists crossing the intersection, according to Hikind.

Another problem is a lack of signage, according to Hikind.

Hikind has also requested that additional signage be installed along Ocean Parkway to give drivers more advanced notice of the upcoming Bay Parkway exit. Currently, drivers who intend to make the right turn to exit are caught off-guard, particularly if they are in the middle or left lanes, Hikind said.

As a result, many drivers veer off suddenly to switch into the right lane, creating a potential traffic danger, he said.

“I’m relieved that after so many complaints, results are finally coming to Ocean Parkway and Bay Parkway, which has seen more than its share of tragic accidents. This is a horribly dangerous intersection,” Hikind said.

In addition to hearing complaints from residents, Hikind said he has seen how dangerous crossing the intersection on foot or on bike can be.

“I’ve personally observed how easy it is for drivers to hit a pedestrian or bicyclist. There is nothing more valuable than seeing the safety issues at this intersection in person and I’m grateful that Commissioner Bray took the time to come down and listen to our concerns,” he said. “We are continuing our work to make Ocean Parkway safer for bicyclists, pedestrians, and motorists, and these improvements will reduce the danger of accidents, potentially saving lives.”