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PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Testimony by Faran Sharif, Resident of Queens
2:01:42
·
116 sec
Faran Sharif, a resident of Queens, testified in opposition to Intro 1138, which would mandate 20 feet of clearance at every intersection for daylighting. He argued that this blanket approach fails to consider the diverse needs of different neighborhoods, especially in areas with limited public transit options.
- Sharif expressed concerns about the removal of parking spots and the potential negative impact on quality of life, particularly in transit deserts like Eastern Queens.
- He called for reform of the Department of Transportation, citing issues with complaint handling and response times.
- Sharif urged the council to consider borough-specific solutions, emphasizing that what works in one area might not be suitable for another.
Faran Sharif
2:01:42
Good afternoon council members.
2:01:44
My name is Farron Sherif.
2:01:46
I am a resident of Queens, and I am here today to express my opposition to Intro eleven thirty eight.
2:01:54
As a driver, I understand the challenge of navigating intersections when visibility is blocked by vehicles parked too close to corners, but mandating 20 feet of clearance at every intersection, effectively removing a full parking spot disregards the lived realities of many New Yorkers, especially those living in transit deserts such as Eastern Queens.
2:02:19
This blanket approach fails to consider that what works for one neighborhood might not work for others.
2:02:26
Further, adding bike racks, rocks, or planters does not resolve the issue, it compounds it.
2:02:33
We've already seen declining quality of life with DOT's e scooter rollout which has triggered significant backlash in our communities.
2:02:42
If traffic safety is the goal, we must reform the Department of Transportation.
2:02:47
Countless three one one complaints ranging from illegal parking to speed bump requests go ignored or are denied after months of silence.
2:02:57
A more effective DOT would alleviate the burden on NYPD and better serve our communities.
2:03:04
I urge the council to proceed with caution.
2:03:08
Just because something works in one neighborhood does not mean that it will work everywhere.
2:03:13
What's effective in Manhattan might not suit Staten Island.
2:03:17
What does not work in The Bronx might still work in Queens.
2:03:21
We must be intentional in crafting legislation that values all New Yorkers regardless of borough or zip code.
2:03:29
Solving one problem by creating another will only push residents out of the city that we are trying to improve.
2:03:36
Thank you for giving me the time to testify.