August 4, 2015 Ms. Polly Trottenburg Commissioner NYC Department of Transportation 55 Water Street New York, New York 10041 Ms. Nicole Garcia Queens Borough Commissioner NYC Department of Transportation 120-55 Queens Boulevard Kew Gardens, New York 11424 Dear Commissioners Trottenburg and Garcia: I write to request that the Department of Transportation (DOT) close Shore Boulevard between Astoria Park South and Ditmars Boulevard to vehicular traffic.

The aforementioned stretch of road, wholly situated between Astoria Park and the

East River, is notoriously dangerous for pedestrians, cyclists, and park-goers. While incidences of drag racing have declined since the installation of speed bumps, my constituents persistently report speeding motorists and reckless driving along this portion of Shore Boulevard. In addition to acting as a hazardous barrier between the waterfront and Astoria Park, the relative seclusion of this street, situated between my communitys principal green space and the East River, attract and facilitate criminal activity such as public fornication, drinking and drug use.

Overnight parking is prohibited and there are no residences or businesses abutting

this part of Shore Boulevard. In short, this half-mile portion of roadway provides no meaningful transportation purpose and contributes to a number of problems for our community. Closing Shore Boulevard between Astoria Park South and Ditmars Boulevard to vehicles would have minimal effect on congestion in the area, would enhance access to the waterfront, and would undoubtedly make Astoria Park a safer and more enjoyable space.

I respectfully request that the DOT close Shore Boulevard between Astoria Park South and Ditmars Boulevard to vehicular traffic.