What You Need to Know About NYC Summer Streets
Posted on August 10, 2022 in Firm News
The Summer Streets program is returning to New York City for the first time in three years, and residents cannot wait to be rid of all the vehicles for a bit.
Starting August 6, for three consecutive Saturdays, New York pedestrians and cyclists will have a free range of designated streets spanning from the Brooklyn Bridge to East 109th Street. According to New York Family, this fantastic program was expanded by Mayor Adams this year to include East Harlem for the first time, and residents could not be more thrilled.
What is Summer Streets
Summer Streets is an event for New Yorkers of all ages that allows car-free use of streets usually crowded by motor vehicles. It allows NYC residents and tourists a low-stress opportunity to walk, explore, scoot, and play in the streets without the fear of getting hit or having to navigate speeding cars.
The event takes place on August 6th, 13th, and 20th from 7:00 am to 1:00 pm. Aside from keeping New Yorkers safe, Summer Streets promotes local artists and musicians, fitness and recreation, and celebrates culture as vendors set up along the open roads.
If you’re attending, expect to see a host of activities, from shows to ziplining, live music, and play stations for the kids. In addition, NYC.Gov announced this week that Citi Bike would offer free day passes to those who want to catch a ride. You can use the code SUMMER22 and log in to the app to receive unlimited 30-minute rides.
Why Are Summer Streets Important?
During the pandemic, streets were open and available for New Yorkers to explore the city. They could walk their dogs in peace, take a bike ride, or simply enjoy the surrounding amenities of living in NYC without fearing traffic, congestion, and crazy drivers.
Now that pre-pandemic roads are back, pedestrian accidents have skyrocketed. According to Transportation Alternatives, the year 2022 had the deadliest start for pedestrians since the beginning of Vision Zero. In the first quarter of the year, pedestrian fatalities rose 44%, resulting in 59 deaths across the five boroughs.
The City must do more to protect residents who are drivers or occupants of motor vehicles. In the New York Family article, Mayor Adam stated, “Our streets belong to all New Yorkers, and I’m so excited to be restoring the Summer Streets program to three full Saturdays and bringing it to East Harlem for the first time.” We look forward to seeing all New Yorkers enjoy a safe period of open streets and hope to see more collaborative events promoting the safety of NYC pedestrians in the future.
Pazer, Epstein, Jaffe & Fein Pedestrian Accident Attorneys
Pedestrians struck by bicycles or motor vehicles can sustain severe and fatal injuries. At the law firm of Pazer, Epstein, Jaffe & Fein, we have been fighting for New York City accident victims for over 60 years. If you or a loved one has suffered a serious injury due to the negligence of another, our experienced trial attorneys are here to help.
Contact us for a free case evaluation via our online form or call 212-227-1212 to speak to one of our attorneys.