NYC Councilmember Stephen DiBrienza, backed by Councilmembers Ken Fisher, Una Clarke and Angel Rodriguez, calls for a two-month trial closing of Prospect Park starting in July

What:Press Conference
When:Noon, Monday, April 13, 1998
Where:Bartel Pritchard Square - Prospect Park West at 15th St, Brooklyn

Brooklyn Councilmembers understand that Prospect Park is Brooklyn's greatest jewel -- A wonderful oasis from the noise, tumult and hectic pace of city streets, ideal for jogging, walking, cycling skating and playing. But when the park is open to automobile traffic, the park's loop drive becomes a dangerous and hostile place for park users.

Outraged that Frederick Law Olmstead's masterpiece has deteriorated into a speedway, Brooklyn residents have long sought to permanently remove cars from Prospect Park. After years of public pressure, the NYC Department of Transportation released a study that confirms the park could be completely closed to cars all year with only minimal traffic impact on the surrounding roadways.

Now elected officials are championing the benefits of a car-free Prospect Park. Carl Biers, Brooklyn Committee Chair of Transportation Alternatives, welcomed the announcement. "A two-month trial closing will prove conclusively that car-free Prospect Park will work."

Councilmember DiBrienza and Transportation Alternatives will testify at Brooklyn Borough President Howard Golden's public hearing on closing the Park to autos Tuesday, April 21, 6:00 PM at Brooklyn Borough Hall.