Citing dangerous conditions for pedestrians, an area elected official this week called on the city Department of Transportation to install additional street lights to a Rockaway Boulevard A-Train underpass.
After receiving “numerous complaints” from constituents regarding the poorly lit pathway on the boulevard between 99th and 100th streets, Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder (D-Ozone Park) sent a letter to Acting Queens DOT Commissioner Jeff Lynch, urging the agency to act quickly, as the street lights on either side of the tracks were not adequately lighting the underpass.
“This dark and dangerous underpass poses a threat to the children and families in the community and is a welcome sign for criminal behavior,” Goldfeder said. “Our families deserve to feel safe walking in their own neighborhoods and I’m urging the Department of Transportation to immediately install lights to help give every resident the peace of mind they deserve.”
Additionally, Goldfeder encouraged DOT to work with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to maintain the site, which is close to two schools—MS 137 and John Adams High School—and many small businesses.
A DOT spokesman told The Forum that the department has received Goldfeder’s missive, and that it is inspecting the lighting and reported vandalism at the location to assess and determine the next steps. He also said that DOT would be in touch with the Sanitation Department about concerns related to litter on the pathway.
“When I arrive home every night from work, I use the pathway to get to my house,” said area resident Shaki Kar. “There are no street lamps there and it’s dark and covered in litter and graffiti. I know people who have gotten robbed there in the past. I feel very unsafe.”
Goldfeder added, “No one should have to fear for their safety while walking home at night. We live in a great community where people feel safe to live and raise a family. When problems like this underpass arise, it’s important to address them as soon as possible and maintain the quality of life we enjoy.”
by Michael V. Cusenza