Res. No. 153
Resolution calling upon the New York State Legislature, the Mayor of the City of New York, the New York City Department of Transportation and the New York City Bureau of Traffic Enforcement to significantly increase fines and step up enforcement efforts for all traffic violations within the central business district of Manhattan in order to deter violators and help to effectively relieve traffic congestion and reduce air pollution.
By Council Members Fidler, Chin, Comrie, Dromm, James, Palma and Williams
Whereas, Congestion and pollution are undesirable consequences of automobiles in our City; and
Whereas, In order to effectively reduce congestion and pollution, a multi-faceted approach to the problem is necessary; and
Whereas, Congestion and pollution affect all areas of New York City, and any solutions should consider the spillover effects to the entire region; and
Whereas, Imposing additional traffic and institutional remedies targeted throughout the central business district of Manhattan and the surrounding region could help to address the problems of congestion and air pollution; and
Whereas, Violations of any proposed regulations would effectively negate any beneficial effects that could have otherwise been brought about by such lawful remedies; and
Whereas, Increased enforcement and fines would increase turnover in legal on-street parking spaces and reduce slightly the time drivers spend cruising for parking; and
Whereas, In addition to imposing new regulations, stricter enforcement of existing laws such as overstaying a meter, parking unlawfully in a taxi stand, bus stop, or loading zone, blocking the box or driving in a bus lane, would also help to improve traffic flow in the central business district and result in an improvement in air quality; and
Whereas, Significantly increasing fines for such violations if committed in the central business district would also serve as a deterrent; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the Council of the City of New York calls upon the New York State Legislature, the Mayor of the City of New York, the New York City Department of Transportation and the New York City Bureau of Traffic Enforcement to significantly increase fines and step up enforcement efforts for all traffic violations within the central business district of Manhattan in order to deter violators and help to effectively relieve traffic congestion and reduce air pollution.
AC/JW
LS# 601
Res. 1226/2008
3/15/10