Community Survey Shows Overwhelming Opposition to Proposed Bike Lanes

A recent JFA survey assessing community opinions on the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) proposed bike lanes on Kingston and Brooklyn Avenues has revealed strong opposition. Of the 900 participants, 860 completed the survey, with nearly all respondents residing in the area affected by the proposal.

Key concerns include challenges with snow removal, parking shortages, increased traffic congestion, and safety issues. Additionally, the reduction to one lane could complicate delivery services for many senior citizens and large families who depend on online shopping for essential goods.

Rabbi Yaacov Behrman of the Jewish Future Alliance commented, “Our survey results show overwhelming opposition to the current proposal, with only 6% in support and 90% opposed. We urge the DOT to develop an alternative plan that addresses safety concerns without reducing Brooklyn and Kingston Avenues to one lane or eliminating 55 parking spaces.”

Survey Results:

Do you regularly drive a car in Crown Heights?

Yes: 89% (823 of 920)
No: 11% (97 of 920)

Do you regularly ride a bike in Crown Heights?

Yes: 27% (247 of 916)
No: 73% (665 of 916)

Do you support the Department of Transportation’s proposal in its current form?

Yes: 8% (69 of 885)
No: 90% (794 of 885)
Neutral/Unsure: 2% (21 of 885)

Do you perceive traffic as a problem in Crown Heights?

Yes: 75% (657 of 874)
No: 8% (70 of 874)
Only during rush hours: 17% (146 of 874)

What is parking like in Crown Heights?

Finding parking is extremely difficult: 88% (776 of 881)
Parking spots are usually readily available: 3% (24 of 881)
It varies by season: 9% (80 of 881)

Would you prefer the protected bike lane to start from East New York instead of Empire Boulevard?

No, start from Empire as in the current proposal: 6% (49 of 877)
Start it from East New York: 11% (96 of 877)
I am adamantly opposed to both options: 83% (727 of 877)

Which safety measures do you most support to address dangerous driving in the district?

Extended sidewalks: 15% (128 of 860)
Raised Crosswalks: 46% (396 of 860)
Speed cameras: 22% (190 of 860)
Protected Bike Lanes: 6% (48 of 860)