Addabbo Announces Bill to Inform Residents of Public Work Interruptions

Bill Mandates Protocols Cities Must Follow  

Queens, NY, May 26, 2011 – NYS Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. (D-Queens) announces he introduced legislation (S.5023) that would require cities with a population of one million or more residents to notify residents of public work projects in their area.  People living within a half-mile of the proposed public work project must be notified within three (3) days before commencement of a project. “My constituents are frequently victims of having no water or other service due to construction or some other public work being done in their area. I believe these residents should be given ample notice if they are going to be inconvenienced,” explained Senator Addabbo.  

The public work projects subject to this provision include construction, repairs, utility services and public work. With the exception of utility services, residents must be notified of any public work that will encompass 48 hours. 

Under the proposed measure, sufficient signage would be displayed to inform both residents and visitors of the work.“Informing the community of public work projects would benefit not only residents, but businesses as well.  To comply with proposed projects, businesses can schedule deliveries and work around the inconveniences of the public work,” said Addabbo. 

Utility service disruptions are the exception, as companies would have to immediately notify the public of any perceived interruptions.  “A disruption in utilities is frustrating. Being informed of such a disruption might ease the level of frustration for people,” Addabbo noted. 

The bill currently stands in the State Senate Cities Committee and is awaiting sponsorship in the Assembly.

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