Traffic Task Force Forms in Boerum Hill

Transportation issues and policy are a major concern for many Brooklynites. From bike lanes and new to major , how residents get from here to there is always in discussion. 

In Boerum Hill, motor vehicle traffic and safety are a top priority. Residents have long complained about how the streets in their neighborhood are used as a pass through for cars detouring off of Atlantic Avenue or trying to get to the BQE and East River bridges.

To address these and other concerns, the Boerum Hill Association, with Councilmember Stephen Levin's office, have formed a traffic task force. The first meeting is being held at , 250 Baltic Street, on February 2 at 6:30 p.m. The community is encouraged to attend and voice their concerns.

"Boerum Hill residents have had to deal with speeding and congestion problems for too long," said Levin. "By working together, I believe we can find creative and meaningful solutions to these issues."

Concerns are varied.

"Traffic congestion, speeding, illegal truck traffic, bicycle co-existence and other issues are among our concerns," said BHA President . 

Hope Reichbach, a member of Levin's staff, is leading the task force with Sarah Wikenczy from the BHA. Reichbach, who grew up in Boerum Hill, says the time to work on these issues is now.

"With Atlantic Yards there's going to be such an influx [of cars]," she said, adding that the Department of Transportation is also planning to do a test study on 20 MPH speed limits.

Reichbach is already rallying for speed bumps around the neighborhood, and in one location in particular: on Boerum Place and Dean Street.

"Cars blow through the stop sign at Dean Street," she said. "A car has taken the corner too fast and hit the building."

Locals were thrilled at the idea. In just 20 minutes, Reichbach said she collected nearly 80 signatures in favor of the speed bump.

One recent afternoon, Rachael Henry was walking on Boerum Place with a toddler she was babysitting.

"It's a good idea," she said. "People drive fast here."

Laura Shapiro, a new resident, said the "family neighborhood" needed traffic calming.

"A few speed bumps won't impede anybody," she said. "And if it will make the streets safer, why not?"