Politicos Press For More Car-Free Prospect Park

Read the latest news about this issue.

Councilmembers Ken Fisher and Stephen DiBrienza have added their voices to the hundreds of park users and neighbors calling for year-round car-free hours and expanded early morning and overnight car-free periods for Prospect Park. A representative for Councilmember Mary Pinkett, whose district also abuts the park, said she was still considering the proposal. The council members were encouraged to act by the heavy mail they've received from T.A. members in their districts and from the postcards handed out by T.A. volunteers at the park green market. Supporters are also calling on Brooklyn Borough President Howard Golden to show much-needed leadership and support for more car-free hours in the park. Golden is on record supporting year-round weekday car-free hours, but his vocal support of the proposal to the Giuliani administration is crucial.

The summer hours season (when the park is car-free on weekdays from 10 am-3 pm and 7-10 pm) is scheduled to end November 4.

T.A. and the councilmembers have gone a step further, asking that the park be car-free during overnight and early morning hours (7 pm to 7 am). This change would not affect peak-hour car traffic and would give walkers, joggers, skaters and cyclists more time to enjoy the park without cars. As important, it would establish the park as a park first, not a convenient speedway for automobiles.

To support more Car-Free hours in the park, write to:

DOT Commissioner Christopher Lynn
40 Worth Street
New York, NY 10013

Brooklyn Borough President Howard Golden
209Joralemon Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201