Community Rallies Against Protected Bike Lanes at CB9 Meeting

At a well-attended meeting hosted by Brooklyn Community Board 9 (CB9), local residents united to voice their strong opposition to the planned protected bike lanes on Kingston and Brooklyn Avenues.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) was on hand to gather community feedback. Many parents and residents spoke passionately about the safety risks posed to children, elders, and disabled neighbors who would have to cross through these lanes from school buses or cars. One father was even moved to tears, expressing his deep worry for his children’s safety.

Residents noted that while traffic calming measures on Brooklyn Avenue are important, the proposed protected bike lanes are not the right solution. They called for alternative approaches that would improve safety without putting pedestrians at risk.

In a positive development, the DOT stated that the project is currently on pause to gather community feedback. Councilwoman Rita Joseph also assured representatives from the CHJCC that she would be reaching out to the DOT to convey these concerns.

Community advocates presented the DOT with nearly 1,000 petition signatures, demonstrating the depth of local opposition. The CHJCC together with local residents are working diligently behind the scenes to ensure that community voices are heard and that a safer resolution is reached.

We encourage all residents to sign our petition and reach out to Councilwoman Rita Joseph to share your concerns. Together, we can ensure that our streets remain safe for everyone.

Sign the petition here: https://form.jotform.com/VaadHakohol/our-children-our-streets

Send and email to Councilwoman Rita Joseph directly at District40@council.nyc.gov