Traffic was a nightmare for many when the Mall at Bay Plaza first opened in Co-op City, but it seems to have eased up over the past six months. 

According to the head of the mall's management company, Prestige Properties, traffic is no longer an issue. Sam Shalem says prices for the parking garage have been lowered and another Bx12 bus was added to the route. 

Shalem adds that the 45th Precinct has stepped in to help, not only with security, but also with directing traffic within the shopping complex. 

One taxi driver says it takes him less than half the time it previously did to get in and out of the area.

Assemblyman Michael Benedetto and Council Member Andy King say they have been pleased with the flow of traffic, and they will continue to monitor the situation.