May 5, 2017 Polly Trottenberg Commissioner New York City Department of Transportation 55 Water Street, 9th Floor New York, NY 10041 Dear Commissioner Trottenberg, We write regarding the intersection of Clinton Street and Grand Street on the Lower East Side. There is significant traffic congestion at this intersection, which impacts the surrounding streets and neighborhood. We urge the Department of Transportation to conduct a traffic study at this intersection to determine potential traffic improvement measures, including reducing congestion, increasing safety and improving quality of life. Clinton Street north of Grand Street is a narrow one-way street that doubles as the entrance to the Williamsburg Bridge for drivers exiting the southbound FDR Drive. There is inadequate space for cars waiting to enter the bridge, causing traffic to spill into the intersection of Clinton and Grand Streets. In addition to causing gridlock, vehicles frequently stop in the crosswalk, preventing pedestrians from crossing safely. Vehicles also attempt to make right turns from the left lane, crossing over a bike lane and creating a dangerous situation for vehicles and cyclists. The traffic pattern also is a major quality of life issue in the neighborhood. Nearby neighbors report loud honking at all hours due to the gridlock. The new development at Essex Crossing will only add additional stress and traffic to the street grid. Community Board 3 passed a unanimous resolution in support of a traffic study at this intersection on April 25. We urge you to support this request immediately. Should you have any further questions, please contact our offices. Sincerely,
Daniel Squadron State Senator
Yuh-Line Niou Assemblymember
Nydia M. Velazquez Congresswoman
Margaret S. Chin City Councilmember
Gale A. Brewer Borough President