Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) is requesting that the Department of Transportation (DOT) remedy a dangerous intersection at 13th Avenue and 60th Street, where a two-way street changes into a one-way street. In recent weeks, there have been numerous accidents, with drivers driving the wrong way, underscoring the necessity to warn pedestrians and drivers of the change in traffic patterns.

In a letter to DOT Brooklyn Borough Commissioner Keith Bray, Hikind wrote, “Pedestrians walking at this intersection at night shouldn’t have to worry about a scenario in which a car driving down 13th Avenue from the high 60s drives onto the one-way section of the avenue.” Hikind noted that, “This is a busy intersection with children riding in school buses, the B9 bus, drivers, and pedestrians all putting their lives in danger every time they travel there.”

Currently, there are only two signs stating “Do Not Enter” for drivers approaching 13th Avenue from the higher numbered streets. A pole used to exist in the middle of 13th Avenue, which warned drivers not to enter the wrong way, but that has been repeatedly knocked down. Hikind is requesting that a more permanent solution be explored. This would include clearer signage, such as “One Way Traffic Ahead – Do Not Enter,” a hanging light, and/or a barrier. In his letter, Hikind noted that there has been a spate of accidents recently and a local business has placed ad-hoc barriers to prevent drivers from driving the wrong way. Hikind has the support of the local NYPD 66th precinct on this matter.

“A more permanent solution will go a long way toward improving safety at this intersection,” continued Hikind.

The text of the letter to the DOT follows:

Dear Commissioner,

It has come to my attention that an extremely dangerous situation exists at the intersection of 13th Avenue and 60th Street.

As you know, 13th Avenue is a one-way street, but turns into a two-way street at 60th Street, allowing vehicles to travel in both directions from that point and on to the higher numbered streets. Conversely, the only indication to drivers approaching 60th Street that they cannot enter 13th Avenue to continue to the lower numbered streets are two “Do Not Enter” signs. However, this change in traffic flow may not be apparent late at night, when visibility is impaired, especially to drivers not familiar with the area. Indeed, there have been a few accidents at this intersection recently.

In order to remedy the situation, I am requesting that additional signs be posted at this intersection, such as signs at the southeast corner indicating “One Way Traffic Ahead – Do Not Enter” and a barrier/pole, or even a hanging light to prevent and warn drivers from going the wrong way. The attached photos indicate that this type of pole used to exist but as I understand it, the pole is repeatedly knocked down and this dangerous situation still exists.

Pedestrians walking at this intersection at night shouldn’t have to worry about a scenario in which a car driving down 13th Avenue from the high 60s drives onto the one-way section of the avenue. This is a busy intersection with children riding in school buses, the B9 bus, drivers, and pedestrians all putting their lives in danger every time they travel there. It is an accident waiting to happen and this dangerous situation must be remedied.

This request has the support of my constituents, including that of the local precinct. I look forward to working with you on this matter and ensuring the safety of those in our community driving and walking at this intersection.

Sincerely,

Dov Hikind
Member of Assembly

(YWN Desk – NYC)