Why Emptier Streets Meant an Especially Deadly Year for Traffic Deaths
In New York City, at least 243 people died in crashes in 2020 the most since Mayor Bill de Blasio introduced his signature street safety plan in 2014.
Deaths of drivers, passengers and motorcyclists rose in 2020 to 120, from 68 in 2019 an increase of 76 percent, according to New York City data.Credit.Stephen Speranza for The New York Times
Jan. 1, 2021
When the pandemic hit New York City, cars seemed to disappear from many streets as the lockdown brought urban life to a halt and drivers stayed home.
Today, traffic is still lighter than usual at times. But in a troubling trend echoed across the country, the number of deadly car crashes has soared.
Photo Courtesy of NYC DOT
“Open Storefronts has given business owners an easy way to maximize their space and keep customers safe as they shop. And by introducing restaurants into the program, we’re giving local eateries more ways than ever to keep their communities vibrant,” Mayor de Blasio said.
By Forum Staff
Mayor Bill de Blasio on Tuesday announced the Open Storefronts program, which permits storefront businesses to use a portion of their sidewalk to display merchandise, sell goods, complete transactions, and provide queuing areas, will be extended through Sept. 30, 2021. The mayor announced the program will also allow businesses to sell pre-packaged food on sidewalks, and allow restaurants to use sidewalks for take-out orders.
The city installed nearly 30 miles of protected bike lanes in 2020, bringing the city’s total bike lane network to 1,375 miles, Mayor de Blasio announced Tuesday.