Assemblyman Michael Simanowitz and Assemblyman Edward Braunstein, called on the MTA to create a feasible solution to the immense traffic caused by construction at the Whitestone and Throgs Neck Bridges.

The concurrent closure of toll booths and multiple lanes across both bridges have caused a traffic nightmare for residents in both Queens and the Bronx. The construction is part of the MTA’s Open Road Tolling initiative, intended to increase traffic flow by eliminating the need for motorists to stop at toll plazas. Elected officials from both boroughs have called the MTA plan short-sighted. “While the new tolling system will ultimately improve our roadways, the simultaneous construction on both bridges was not adequately prepared for as evidenced by the massive delays,” said Assemblyman Simanowitz.

Assemblyman Edward Braunstein stated, “The MTA should have anticipated that commencing the construction of cashless tolling at the Whitestone and Throgs Neck bridges at the same time would result in significant traffic problems. I join my colleagues in calling on Governor Cuomo to direct the MTA to immediately make the necessary changes to alleviate traffic congestion occurring in both Queens and the Bronx.”

Officials also raised concerns about life-threatening delays caused by traffic jams that affect emergency service vehicles and commuters alike. They urged the MTA to work with city and state officials to create a traffic plan that gives safe access to first responders. Assemblyman Simanowitz said, “Beyond the disruption created for our neighbors in Whitestone, residents of both boroughs who rely on emergency services are endangered. It is crucial that the city and MTA immediately coordinate on a plan to ensure safe passage and traffic relief for our first responders.”

Residents of Whitestone have expressed concerns regarding the overflow of traffic which has started to spill over into residential streets. Alfredo Centola, president of ‘We Love Whitestone’ civic referenced “communities like Whitestone and Throgs Neck being assaulted with thousands of cars blocking traffic and causing chaos for residents trapped in their driveways unable to move around their communities.” Kim Cody, president of ‘Greater Whitestone Taxpayers Association’ also called for assistance in the control of traffic, especially around areas of heavy pedestrian and student traffic. “Vehicles looking to avoid the long lines on the Cross Island Parkway exit at Utopia Parkway and speed along the service road and residential streets of our community,” said Cody. “They show total disregard for traffic controls and pedestrians, mainly children going to school during the morning rush hours.”

The elected representatives have spoken with NYPD’s Traffic Bureau and requested additional officers from Commissioner O’Neill to help facilitate a traffic plan for motorists. In the interim, the community has been working the 109th Precinct, which under the coordination of Inspector Judith Harrison, has provided additional officers to patrol and oversee problematic areas.

As construction is scheduled to continue through September, the community anticipates an aggravated traffic situation over the summer months if no plan is put in place. Both Assemblymen Simanowitz and Braunstein urge city and state agencies to work together in addressing this issue expediently before an emergency situation occurs.