U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer has expressed his support for the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) to approve a plan that would permanently slow traffic and help make Rt. 198 safer.
“…I am urging the federal Department of Transportation to work with New York State and local officials to quickly approve this plan, which would pump the brakes on cars that speed through this area and add greater protection for families and children living in the neighboring Parkside community,” said Schumer in a press release issued today.
Also according to the press release, Schumer believes reclassifying the road would not only improve safety for drivers by reducing speeds, but it would also increase the area’s pedestrian friendliness. He is pushing for a plan that would, first, help the community implement increased safety measures and encourage drivers to abide by the newly lowered speed limit, which was changed from 50 mph to 30 mph following the deadly May crash. Second, the redesign would help create the possibility for bicycle lanes and crosswalks, as well as improved aesthetics along the side of the road. This would mean a greater buffer between the roadway and the park. Finally, the plan would help reunify the park, which was cut in half by this busy expressway. By better integrating the park with crosswalks, sidewalks, and a roadway with traffic signs and slower speeds, Schumer said this plan would increase the safety of the road and neighborhood, returning to the original functionality of this historic Olmstead park.
Schumer was scheduled to appear in Buffalo regarding this matter today but cancelled due to not feeling well. An article was published in the Buffalo News announcing his support.
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