Senator Fuschillo Named “Champion of Safer Streets” by Tri-State Transportation Campaign for Work on Complete Streets Law

Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. (R-Merrick) was recently honored by the Tri-State Transportation Campaign at their 2011 Annual Benefit.

Senator Fuschillo, along with Wantagh resident Sandi Vega and AARP, were chosen as the organization’s 2011 “Champions for Safer Streets” for their work on New York State’s Complete Streets Law. Senator Fuschillo sponsored the law in the Senate. Mrs. Vega, whose 14 year old daughter Brittany was killed while crossing Sunrise Highway last year, and AARP joined Tri-State Transportation Campaign in strongly advocating for the law.

New York’s Complete Streets Law will help make our roadways safer for all users by requiring all state, county, and local transportation agencies to consider complete streets design principles on all projects which receive both federal and state funding. Complete streets design principles are roadway design features that accommodate and facilitate safe travel by pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists of all ages and abilities. A Federal Highway Administration safety review found that streets designed with complete streets features improve safety for all users, enabling pedestrians to cross busy roads in two stages, improving bicycle safety and reducing left-turning motorist crashes to zero. 

Senator Fuschillo (second left) is pictured with (l-r) Tri-State Transportation Campaign Board Chair Richard Kassel, Tri-State Transportation Campaign Executive Director Kate Slevin, Sandi Vega, and Will Stoner and Bill Ferris of AARP.