January 7: A mayor who bikes, better protected bike lanes, new TA staff
Happy New Year! As we end the first week of 2022, we know there is so much to look forward to in the weeks and months ahead.
As our city’s newest elected officials finish their first week on the job, we’re inspired to see so many of them, including Mayor Adams, travel by and celebrate bikes and public transit on their way to work.
Late last year, we outlined seven steps the new administration can take to save our streets — from reclaiming public space to encouraging bike riding to putting bus riders first. We are encouraged and excited to get to work with our city’s leaders to make this, and NYC 25x25, a reality.
Three Things To Know
1️⃣ Meet the newest members of our team. As we begin the new year, we’re excited to introduce you to the newest members of the TA team. Senior Director for Marketing and Communications Candace Gaswirth, Senior Director for Advocacy and Organizing Elizabeth Adams, and Brooklyn Organizer Kathy Park Price. Want to join our team? We’re hiring four additional roles!
2️⃣ DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez committed to better protected bike lanes. Our new NYC DOT commissioner made a commitment to replace 50% of half of the city’s plastic-protected bike lanes with “sturdier” protection during Mayor Adams’ first 100 days — a win from our Seven Steps policy agenda. We look forward to working with Commissioner Rodriguez on making this a reality!
3️⃣ Here’s what we’re reading this week. In the news:
In her first State of the State, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced plans for a new “Interborough Express” rapid transit line connecting Brooklyn and Queen. Learn more about the proposal in NBC 4.
In Eastern Queens, Community Board 11 unanimously voted to ask the DOT to build a network of protected bike lanes, not just paint, reports Streetsblog.
The safe systems approach emphasizes design over enforcement. See how Seattle’s Vision Zero department plans to implement this in the Urbanist.
THE CITY surveyed the new members of New York City Council. Meet your Council Members.
Our Bronx Organizer, Shawn Garcia, went on BronxNet to talk about our advocacy and campaigns in the Bronx.
Two Things to Do
1️⃣ Join our Crash Victim Rights and Safety Act campaign. To protect all road users, New York State must address the speeding rampant on our streets, educate drivers on bike and pedestrian safety, and allow New York City to lower the speed limit on our streets. Learn more about the CVRSA.
2️⃣ Learn more about open roles at TA. As the fight for safe streets and open spaces continues, our team is growing too. We’re currently hiring a Development Coordinator, Families for Safe Streets Upstate Organizer, Manhattan Organizer, and a Senior Director for People and Operations.
One Action To Take Now
Share with us the transportation projects you’re excited about this year. We want to hear what you’re looking forward to in 2022 — let us know by replying to this email!
Thanks for reading — I hope your 2022 is off to a great start!
P.S. NYC DOT is accepting applications to become Public Space Programming Partners until January 28. These partners will be funded by the DOT and will provide programming to plazas, Open Streets, and other spaces. Learn more about the program and join upcoming info sessions on January 10 and 13.