A Clear Vision Proposal
“Daylighting” is a term used by New York City traffic control that refers to clearing the corners of parked cars at intersections so that cars coming from around the corner can see the oncoming traffic. Currently, vehicles are allowed to park up to the crosswalk of any intersection in the city, thereby blocking the view of oncoming traffic.
This is Not a New Policy
Nassau County has had this plan in place for years, but it was Hoboken, New Jersey which initially caught the eye of members of ten NYC community boards who reviewed it and subsequently promoted it to the NYC agencies.
While daylighting is not new, its implementation in densely populated areas like New York City presents a unique challenge. Unlike in other jurisdictions, where state laws mandate a minimum distance of 20 feet between parked vehicles and intersections, New York City has historically opted out of this regulation, resulting in parking spots situated dangerously close to crosswalks.
The Details
Daylighting eliminates blind spots caused by vehicles parked too close to the corner of intersections, thereby providing a clear vision of sight for cars waiting at that intersection so that they can proceed safely onto the road. By increasing visibility at corners, the plan allows vehicles more reaction time to turn onto the road, and pedestrians and cyclists who will be able to see oncoming traffic from around the corner as well.
New York City Mayor Addresses the Plan
Acknowledging the urgency of addressing this issue, Mayor Eric Adams has committed to daylighting 1,000 intersections this year. While this commitment is commendable, it represents only a fraction of the city’s vast network of intersections. Consequently, advocates continue to call for comprehensive action and transparency from city officials regarding the progress of these initiatives.
Hoboken’s experience is a compelling case study, demonstrating the tangible benefits of prioritizing traffic safety through proactive measures such as universal daylighting. Despite starting from a relatively low baseline,
Conclusion
Following the implementation of this initiative, the city of Hoboken has witnessed a significant reduction in traffic deaths and injuries. When implemented in NY, it will no doubt be a positive change. There are over 40,000 intersections in the city, but by prioritizing safety and fostering proactive urban planning, we can create streets that are safer and more accessible for everyone in New York and beyond.