Judge Orders Removal of Astoria Bike Lane, Citing Safety Failures

In a significant ruling, a Queens judge has ordered the city to remove a newly constructed bike lane on 31st Street, citing safety failures and procedural violations. This decision marks a notable win for local businesses, which have long opposed the expansion of bike lanes in New York City.

Background of the Case

On Friday, Judge Chereé Buggs found that the city’s Department of Transportation (DOT) did not follow proper procedures in designing the bike lane. The contested project included protected bike lanes on both sides of 31st Street from 36th Avenue to Newtown Avenue. It was intended as part of the Vision Zero initiative, aimed at reducing traffic fatalities.

Safety Concerns

The bike lane was being constructed in a section identified as one of the top 10% most dangerous corridors in Queens. Between 2019 and 2024, the area recorded approximately 190 injuries, including 12 serious injuries and two fatalities. However, critics argued that the project compromised pedestrian safety, particularly for vulnerable groups such as schoolchildren, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities.

Community Opposition

Local businesses like Parisi Bakery, King Souvlaki, and Sotto la Luna joined St. Demetrios School, a private institution with around 800 students, in the lawsuit against the city. The plaintiffs contended that the DOT rushed the redesign and ignored significant safety implications. They also expressed concerns that limited access to loading zones could adversely affect businesses and hinder emergency response capabilities.

Legal Findings

• The city failed to engage in mandatory consultations with the Department of Small Business Services and the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities.
• The proposed safety measures, including rumble strips, signage, and stop signs, were deemed inadequate.
• Warnings from the Fire Department indicated that emergency vehicles could not access upper floors due to the new design.

Judge Buggs stated that the DOT “did not meaningfully reconcile its plan” with the safety concerns raised by the Fire Department. The court’s decision underscores the importance of adhering to procedural requirements and prioritizing safety in urban design.

Next Steps

A spokesperson for the city’s Law Department announced that the agency is currently reviewing the ruling. The future of the bike lane and further developments in this ongoing legal situation will be closely monitored by both the community and city officials.