From the March 8th District Newsletter of New York City Councilmember Shahana Hanif:
During the first half of 2024, 92% of pedestrian fatalities at intersections occurred where there were no daylighting measures, and 100% occurred at intersections without physical daylighting to prevent cars from parking up to the crosswalk.I have long supported Universal Daylighting, a street safety measure advocates have pushed to implement citywide. Daylighting keeps the space nearest to intersections clear of parked cars so pedestrians and drivers can see one another before entering a crosswalk.By improving visibility and reducing blind spots at corners, it addresses one of the most common causes of crashes. It is one of the simplest, most cost-effective tools available to prevent injuries and save lives.I am proud to cosponsor Intro 0511, legislation that would mandate universal daylighting at every intersection citywide.While “universal daylighting” may sound ambitious, our neighbors across the Hudson in Hoboken have implemented it broadly—and have seen dramatic reductions in traffic injuries and fatalities as a result.In addition, my bill, Intro 1335, which would require DOT to proactively identify dangerous intersections and install curb extensions, was heard at the hearing.Curb extensions are physical infrastructure that shortens crossing distances, improves visibility, and slows turning vehicles. These proven, permanent safety upgrades protect pedestrians without relying solely on signage or paint.Daylighting, curb extensions, protected bike lanes, bus priority, and traffic calming are not isolated policies. They are interconnected tools within a comprehensive street safety strategy. When implemented together, and at the scale our city requires, they save lives.If there are intersections in District 39 where visibility is poor or safety improvements are overdue, please contact our office at district39@council.nyc.gov. Your advocacy shapes this work.
