The City Council unanimously passed three bills on Wednesday that are intended to make it safer for people to walk, bike, and drive in New York City. The Daily News points out the need for these measures:
Out of the 770 pedestrians killed on city streets from 2005 to 2009, about 19% - or roughly 150 deaths - were people crossing at an intersection with the "walk" signal in their favor, according to the Health Department report.One of the bills requires the Department of Transportation to explain its reasons for turning down requests for traffic control devices that are submitted by Community Boards or City Councilmembers. Be sure to let your Community Board and City Councilmember know where these devices are needed.