Memorial Day Headlines: The Times Finally Weighs In
As the nation observes Memorial Day, a time for introspection and remembrance, Streetsblog reflects on the recent developments in New York City’s transportation landscape. According to Streetsblog, the publication has been critical of NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch’s approach to road safety since she took office last year, promising to make roadways safer and partner with the Department of Transportation on Vision Zero initiatives.
However, Streetsblog claims that Commissioner Tisch has fallen short of these promises, citing the issuance of criminal summonses to cyclists for low-level infractions that typically receive traffic summonses, unlike drivers. As Streetsblog notes, "gliding a bike through a red light is a criminal offense now, but doing so in a 3,000-pound car results in just a ticket." This double standard has sparked concerns among cyclists and advocates for road safety.
The publication Streetsblog has been at the forefront of reporting on the issue, sharing stories of non-electric bike riders who have been swept up in the crackdown, revealing possible familial roots of Tisch’s enforcement approach, and highlighting the lack of data supporting the crackdown. In a recent article, reporter Christopher Maag of the New York Times summarized the major issues, attending a court hearing on the same day as Streetsblog, although the latter did not interview the judge.
While Maag’s piece reflected some of Streetsblog‘s findings, the publication feels that their reporting went further in-depth, revealing more about the complexities of the issue. As Streetsblog notes, "we wish he’d just called us first." The publication’s extensive coverage has provided a detailed look at the issue, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive approach to road safety.
In other news, Streetsblog reports that Andy Byford, also known as "Train Daddy," will be returning to New York City to oversee Amtrak’s rehabilitation of Penn Station. As Streetsblog mentions, Byford should be aware of the challenges ahead, having been briefed on the issues by Nolan Hicks.
The publication also notes that a hit-and-run driver killed a woman in Brooklyn, dragging her body for blocks, highlighting the dangers posed by 3,000-pound cars. Furthermore, Streetsblog reports that Citi Bike is popular in Jersey, a fact that may surprise City Council Member Vickie Paladino.
In a separate development, Streetsblog reports that the West Side Spirit broke the news about Andy Byford’s return to New York City, which was later picked up by other publications, including the New York Times and Gothamist. Additionally, the Post has been criticised for labelling Andrew Cuomo a leftist, a characterisation that has been disputed by many.
As the week begins, Streetsblog will continue to provide in-depth coverage of New York City’s transportation issues, highlighting the complexities and challenges of making roadways safer for all users.
