Written By: Nadia Mifsud
Over the years we have had mounting concerns over traffic safety at a critical intersection in Oakland Gardens, Queens. Residents have been advocating for the installation of a stop sign at a critical intersection. With an increasing number of vehicles, pedestrian activity, and the need to prioritize the well-being of our inhabitants, the addition of a stop sign holds the potential to greatly enhance safety and livability within our community.
Located at the heart of our neighborhood, the intersection of Springfield Boulevard and 77th Avenue serves as a key gateway for residents, visitors, and local businesses. The four way intersection holds two stop signs along its vertical road, 77th Ave, and none on the main road. The absence of a stop sign along Springfield Boulevard has created an environment where reckless driving, near-miss accidents, and a lack of pedestrian right-of-way have become all too common. Andrea Castellon, a friend of a local resident on 77th, stated, “I've taken the bus to Nadia’s house more times than I can count… The bus lets me off across the street and I always have to cross that intersection. One time I crossed and I didn't see any cars when I checked, but this small black car came speeding at me out of nowhere. I was lucky I moved when I did.”
One of the primary benefits of installing a stop sign at this intersection is the immediate improvement in traffic safety. Currently, the absence of a regulated stopping point has led to frequent incidents of speeding, such as Andrea’s experience. This hazardous behavior puts not only bikers at risk but also jeopardizes the safety of pedestrians, including children, elderly individuals, and those with limited mobility. By introducing a stop sign, the intersection would be transformed into a controlled space that encourages responsible driving and reduces the likelihood of accidents.
The addition of a stop sign would also foster a greater sense of security and peace of mind for residents in the neighborhood. The current lack of traffic control has created an unpredictable environment for those living in close proximity to the intersection. Implementing a stop sign would establish clear right-of-way guidelines, enhancing safety and contributing to an overall sense of well-being for inhabitants. According to John Mifsud, a father of two who has been living in the area for well over a decade, “We've been needing a stop sign there for years. If we had one, we could cross the street a little more safely. Especially for the kids that go to the elementary school a few blocks down. The sign is a matter of public safety. We cannot afford to wait for a tragedy to occur before we take action. Lives are at stake, and we need the authorities to recognize the urgency of this situation and address it promptly."
In addition to safety improvements, a sense of community could be fostered by encouraging a slower pace of traffic. Excessive speeding disrupts the peace and quiet of the area but also diminishes the overall quality of life for inhabitants. With the introduction of a stop sign, drivers would be compelled to reduce their speed and take notice of their surroundings, contributing to a more tranquil and harmonious neighborhood environment.
The implementation of stop signs in a community is typically regulated by the local government or the Department of Transportation (DOT). The process for implementing a stop sign generally includes identifying the need for one, conducting an initial assessment and traffic study of the intersection, an engineering evaluation, decision making, and final implementation. A traffic study involves analyzing traffic flow, accident data, pedestrian usage, and
other relevant factors to assess the effectiveness and feasibility of installing a stop sign. An engineering evaluation is performed to consider factors such as sight lines, road geometry, existing traffic control measures, and compliance with applicable traffic regulations and standards.
It is important to note that the specific process and authority responsible for implementing stop signs varies from one community to another. Thus, it is advisable to consult with the local municipal or transportation authorities. In our case, the NYC DOT is a helpful resource in procuring such information. Oakland Gardens is also part of NYCs 11th Community Board on the Queens List. Reaching out and participating in your local Community Board is a great way to be active in your community and generate change.
The community has expressed their collective concern in the past, organizing petitions and community meetings to voice their demands. Even the local elementary school P.S.188 has encouraged its students to be vocal in the community by writing letters to the Mayor. Some children chose to write about this intersection. Although their effectiveness remains unclear, the fact that our kids chose to write about this intersection shows a great deal about its significance.
The community's advocacy for a stop sign at this intersection has gained considerable momentum over the years, with residents and local organizations collaborating to gather support and petition local authorities. The overwhelming consensus among inhabitants is that the installation of a stop sign is a vital step towards safeguarding the well-being and improving the quality of life for everyone in the neighborhood.
Pierce Montgomery, a mechanic and local commuter, emphasized the importance of a stop sign at the intersection, saying, “People can be very dangerous, they go fast down that road because it's just a straightaway… And we have so many apartments and homes, it would definitely benefit us. If it saves one old lady crossing the road, slowly and cluelessly, from a Dodge Challenger going 80, then it would be worth it."
The addition of a stop sign at the intersection of Springfield Boulevard and 77th Avenue holds significant potential to enhance safety and livability for the inhabitants of our local neighborhood. By curbing reckless driving, ensuring pedestrian right-of-way, and promoting a more cohesive community, the overall well-being and sense of security for residents would flourish. It is imperative for local authorities to listen to the voices of the community, address their concerns, and take the necessary steps to implement this crucial traffic control measure.