Governor Hochul Proposes New Parking Rules for Safer School Streets

By Y.M. Lowy

In her State of the State Address, Governor Kathy Hochul announced a plan to make New York City’s elementary school streets safer for children. Her proposal includes banning parking within 20 feet of crosswalks near elementary schools and helping drivers see young children crossing the street more easily.

“Parents deserve peace of mind knowing their kids are safe getting to school,” said Hochul. Her proposal would keep thousands of young students safer as they walk or bike to school each day.

Right now, cars parked too close to crosswalks often block drivers’ view of pedestrians, creating a dangerous situation. Crashes at intersections make up half of all traffic fatalities in the city, with 60 percent of pedestrian deaths occurring near crosswalks. Governor Hochul’s plan to clear the way around these crosswalks will help everyone see each other better and reduce the risk of accidents.