An intersection redesign meant to improve safety in Concourse Village is instead creating new hazards for drivers and pedestrians, neighbors say.
News 12 observed the dangers at East 156th Street and the Grand Concourse, where illegally parked vehicles routinely block crosswalks and portions of the roadway, creating dangerous blind spots.
One car often blocks the crosswalk while another obstructs the roadway, making it difficult for drivers to see oncoming traffic.
State Assemblymember Chantel Jackson, who represents the 79th Assembly District, said the intersection has been a safety concern since it was redesigned several years ago.
“It’s really hard to make this turn,” Jackson said. “We’ve already had a few incidents where cars have hit each other.”
Cars struggle to make a left turn as their car must be halfway in the intersection for them to see oncoming traffic.
“Imagine at rush hour, 3 to 6 p.m.,” Jackson said. “This is busy, and it’s constantly back and forth — trying to figure out who has the right of way and how to go.”
During the News 12 interview, a driver ignored posted “Do Not Enter” and “No Turn” signs, driving the wrong way down a one-way street.
“This is an illegal turn we’re watching happen right now,” Jackson said. “This happens all day long.”
Jackson said the combination of illegally parked vehicles and drivers traveling the wrong direction is a recipe for disaster.
She said she has repeatedly contacted the city Department of Transportation, urging officials to install concrete barriers to eliminate the blind spots and prevent illegal parking.
“It doesn’t create a blind spot for anyone, but it also makes sure that no one parks in that space,” Jackson said. “I know residents aren’t going to like it because it takes away a parking spot, but it’s not a real parking spot. It was made up, and it has to go because it’s not safe.”
