Potential pedestrian safety improvements coming to Astoria as part of the Truck Route Network Redesign

The DOT presented to Queens CB1’s Transportation Committee tonight regarding the Truck Route Network Redesign.

As part of the redesign, DOT plans to make truck route changes to Astoria Blvd from 21st St to 29th St. These planned changes will support efforts to keep larger trucks off narrow residential streets adjacent to Astoria Blvd and facilitate commercial vehicle access to/from the RFK Bridge.

Their plan included several proposed safety enhancements for pedestrians.

Astoria Blvd would potentially see:

• The creation of additional truck loading zones
• A raised crosswalk at Astoria Blvd and 23rd Street
• Painted curb extensions at 27th, 28th and 31st Streets, as well as 33rd Street/Hoyt Avenue North
• A relocated stop bar at 29th Street
• A “Qwick Kurb” between 29th and 30th Streets, and 33rd Street/Hoyt Avenue North and South
• A new crosswalk at 33rd Street and Hoyt Avenue South

DOT met with elected officials about the plan yesterday and hopes to kick off implementation this summer with an anticipated completion by Fall 2026.

I think many here would agree we need way more loading zones across the city, but it comes down to enforcement, which the 114th Precinct has been unwilling or unable to do.