Queens, NY – In response to a request for traffic calming measures on Cherry Avenue and Main Street, which was recently the site of the tragic death of Allison Liao, the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) has agreed to enhance safety at the intersection. Assemblywoman Nily Rozic, State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky, and Council Member Peter Koo sent a letter to Commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan requesting a comprehensive traffic safety review of the area.

“I am proud to announce the Department of Transportation has listened to the concerns of our community and decided to take the necessary corrective actions,” said Assemblywoman Rozic (D,WF-Fresh Meadows). “These measures will slow down drivers, make Main Street safer for pedestrians, and better protect our children and families.”

As part of the review, the DOT will remove two parking spaces at the Cherry Avenue eastbound approach north curb to provide easier visibility for left turning vehicles and add “No Standing Anytime” sign and markings to reinforce the signage. In addition, the DOT will conduct a study on the feasibility of installing a Leading Pedestrian Interval (LPI) that would give pedestrians time to begin crossing the street before the light turns green for motorists, at the intersection of Cherry Avenue and Main Street. The LPI study will conclude by mid-January.

“I would like to thank the Department of Transportation for their speedy response to this tragic matter. I hope the new measures, including the removal of the parking spots and the No Standing Anytime sign, help alleviate vehicular traffic at this intersection. I am also heartened that the Department is looking into installing pedestrian countdown clocks at this site, which will help people cross the street safely and in a timely manner. Although there’s nothing we can do to bring little Allison back, I am hopeful that these improvements will prevent another tragedy here. I would also like to remind pedestrians and motorists that downtown Flushing is an extremely busy and congested area and to use the utmost caution when crossing streets and driving,” said Senator Toby Ann Stavisky (D-Flushing.)

Councilman Peter Koo (D-Flushing) said, “I can’t imagine the pain that this family is going through after the loss of their young child. This is a tragedy that has affected me and the entire community. I am committed to working with my colleagues and the Department of Transportation to do everything possible to prevent another tragedy like this from happening again. The changes being proposed by DOT are a step in the right direction.”

Rozic has been working on traffic safety measures throughout her district. Neighbors with any other traffic safety related questions or issues should feel free to contact Rozic’s office at 718-820-0241 or rozicn@assembly.state.ny.us.