The New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) is proposing
amendments to their traffic rules to clarify that an elevated pedestrian walkway or a bicycle lane on a bridge or a bridge approach may not be used for the vending of merchandise or services. According to the Brooklyn Eagle, the new rule would specify that "vending is prohibited on the elevated pedestrian walkways and their approaches on bridges. While the existing rules imply that vending is effectively prohibited on bridges, an explicit restriction would clarify the city's vending rules and aid in enforcement efforts." The BHA supports this clarification of the existing rules. While there is undoubtedly a need for a better system allowing for legal street vending, we do not believe that every place in the City is suitable for vending, including the Brooklyn Bridge. We believe the unchecked vending contributes to overcrowding and unsafe conditions. DOT wants to hear from you! You can comment and listen in during an online public hearing on Wednesday, November 15th at 10:00 am or submit your comments via this link by November 15th. If you wish to comment on the proposed rule during the hearing, you must sign up to speak via the city rules website at http://rules.cityofnewyork.us or calling 212-839-6500 by Nov. 14. Read the latest coverage including interviews with residents and tourists in Mary Frost's article in the Brooklyn Eagle. Photo: Mary Frost, Brooklyn Eagle |
