Street redesign causes Carroll Gardens neighborhood debate
Some neighbors say they understand the need for change and support efforts aimed at improving safety in an area that continues to see construction and steady residential activity.
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A quiet residential street beneath the Hugh L. Carey Tunnel entrance is at the center of a growing debate, as the Department of Transportation moves forward with plans to reverse the direction of Woodhull Street over safety concerns.
Some neighbors say they understand the need for change and support efforts aimed at improving safety in an area that continues to see construction and steady residential activity.
“I know that there's a lot of construction happening in this neighborhood. There are a lot of families that live here, so anything that would make it safer - I'm all for it,” says a resident named Vanessa.
A spokesperson for the Department of Transportation tells News 12 the redesign is intended to address speeding and dangerous weaving near the tunnel entrance. The proposal includes a new traffic signal, crosswalks and curb extensions meant to calm traffic flow through the corridor.
Still, others in the neighborhood are raising concerns about what the changes could bring. Resident Bob Kountourakis said the plan could worsen existing conditions.
“It's going to make this intersection crazy, which it already is. It's going to make it more congested and feel more sort of industrial, especially if it's directing trucks down here,” he explains.
Some residents are also worried about safety impacts on families living nearby, especially with a park and school in close proximity.
“It's a very busy area for sure. Cars, constant flow. It would just make more traffic, more problems - there's a park here, a school right here. Not necessarily a good idea in my opinion,” says resident Samantha Rodriguez.
In response, community pushback has already begun, including a petition opposing the plan that has gained significant support.
Residents say their goal is to make sure local voices are heard before any final decision is made.
“I hope that everybody just gets to hear what the community says and can make a good decision on whether they should do this or not,” Kountourakis says.
The Department of Transportation says the proposal is still under review as it continues to gather feedback and evaluate potential adjustments before moving forward.
Residents will have another opportunity to weigh in at a Community Board 6 town hall meeting scheduled for June 10.
