Senator Squadron’s Push for Bowery Median Becomes Reality

New Median Will Provide Respite for

Pedestrians Crossing Dangerous Street

Voices of Community are Heard as DOT

Implements Much-Needed Traffic Calming Measure

New York, NY—State Senator Daniel Squadron, who has strongly advocated for increased pedestrian safety measures in Chinatown and citywide, hailed DOT’s announcement that they are responding to concerns raised by the Senator and the community by constructing a center road median along the Bowery that will make it safer for pedestrians to cross streets near the Manhattan Bridge.  The tree-lined median, stretching from Division to Canal Streets, will prevent illegal U-turns on the
Bowery and provide a safe island for pedestrians to pause while crossing the wide six-lane street.

Senator Squadron said, “Chinatown is great for walking and is world-famous for its bustling street activity, but it’s also home to a lot of dangerous traffic.  This median is a simple, common-sense way to make Chinatown a little bit safer.  I commend DOT for listening to the community, and thank Chinatown’s community leaders, who have worked so hard to push for this safety improvement.”

Senator Squadron has worked to implement various pedestrian safety measures, including red light cameras and safer street crossings, and has sponsored pending pedestrian safety legislation that would increase civil penalties on drivers who seriously injure or kill pedestrians.  Last year, Senator Squadron, along with Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer, announced a nine-point plan for improving pedestrian safety in Chinatown.