Islanders Pay Only $3.20 At Verrazano Using E-Z Pass
All Staten Island residents are entitled to a 54% discount on the $7.00 Verrazano Bridge toll. If you recall, back in 1994 I obtained a pledge from George Pataki to cut the tolls in half once he was elected Governor. To his credit, Governor Pataki kept that pledge to us. So, ever since October 1995, Staten Island's toll has decreased to $3.20 while other City residents saw their round trip toll rise to $7.00. The Verrazano Bridge toll was going up and up- seven toll increases in 13 years ('82, '84, '86, '87, '89, '93, '95)- until this largest ever (54%) discount was instituted. (Vehicles with three passengers still pay only $1.25 with a Staten Island resident sticker.) If you or a family member does not yet have E-Z Pass, simply call my Helpline at 816-2000 to order an application immediately. Over 71,386 of you have opened E-Z Pass accounts already- so don't delay.
The Ferry Fare GOING, GOING, GONE!
When was the last time you heard that a fare or toll would be eliminated? Well, it's true. Last month, I asked Mayor Giuliani to consider my proposal to remove the 50 cent ferry fare and make the ride free. Staten Islanders deserve this benefit, and the fares generate only 12% of operation costs anyway. Besides, we pay tens of millions of dollars in bridge tolls and express bus fares. A free ferry ride is a much deserved fair deal for Staten Island. Interestingly, the news about our ferry fare made national headlines as far away as California. Eliminating a transit fare is big news no matter where you go. So spread the word. On July 4th of this year, we celebrate our "independence" from the ferry fare, and Staten Island will have scored another major victory.
A Message From Borough President Guy V. Molinari
When we think of Staten Island's future, and whether our residents and their children will want to continue enjoying the quality of life here, we have to address the issue of traffic. Nothing seems to infuriate communities, motorists or bus users more than traffic. Just about all of Staten Islanders agree we need a new approach to handling our traffic problem. But disagreement ranges on exactly how. As Borough President, I have worked closely with City, State and Federal authorities to bring widespread traffic and transit relief to Staten Island. Goals you asked for have been reached. Toll discounts. Elimination of the Ferry Fare. HOV Lanes. Traffic Signals installed. Miles of roadways re-paved. Next, we need to cut express bus fares, make intersections more user-friendly with left turn signals, and relieve traffic gridlock around the Island. Remember, when it comes to traffic and transit, one person's improvement is another's complaint. There are many cases where one block of neighbors wants a one-way street "going right," and the next block may want it "going left." Opinions, like traffic, often collide with each other. I am confident, however, we can reach consensus. We can make decisions that safeguard our neighborhoods and relieve traffic.
Molinari Paving The Way For Lower Express Bus Fare
Express bus riders are correct- $4.00 is way too much to pay for a one-way ride. When you consider that nearly 15,000 Staten Islanders commute by express bus, then this fare is absolutely unfair. I support cutting the express bus fare to $1.50. It makes no sense to penalize express bus riders with a fare that is 350% higher than a local ride, when the distances are often about the same. I have spoken directly with Mayor Giuliani and Governor Pataki on this issue. I held a meeting in Borough hall with Deputy mayor Rudy Washington, and he is solidly on our side leading the charge for mayor Giuliani and Governor Pataki. Unfortunately, the MTA Board has authority over these decisions, and the members appointed under previous City and State administrations have allowed the express bus fare to skyrocket. On a positive note, in 1995, Governor Pataki responded to my request to convince the MTA to freeze express bus fares, or the MTA would have proceeded to hike the fare up to $5.00. This was the first time that any Governor intervened to prevent an express bus fare hike.
Fighting For Bus Riders
There's more good news for our bus riders. Here's a list of improvements you wanted and we delivered.
HOV Lanes I am working to greatly expand and make permanent the HOV connections between Staten Island and Manhattan. Next, we will be adding and HOV lane on the S.I. Expressway.
Better Service I've gone to the mat with the MTA to save the S60 from being terminated, extended the S74 through Rossville, added the S51 through Fort Wadsworth, restored the S76 through Oakwood, and added a 14th Street and 7th Avenue stop in Manhattan on the X31. I'm fighting now to restore full rush hour service on the X19.
New Bus Ramp to Speed Commute Construction is underway by DOT on a new ramp from Lily Pond Avenue to the Verrazano exclusively for buses. The ramp will allow buses to bypass all other traffic and speed through the toll plaza, a major choke point for our commuters. The idea was conceived by myself, Councilman John Fusco and Councilman Vito Fossella, and through a cooperative effort we convinced the City to design and build the ramp.
"Gimme Shelter" Seven new bus shelters were installed at your request in the past 18 months, at locations on Hylan Boulevard, Targee Street, South Avenue, Forest Avenue, Grandview Avenue, Midland Avenue, and Arthur Kill Road. Two more shelters will be installed at X-bus stops in Manhattan, and more shelters are on the way.
It's Faster Through New Jersey I supported the re-routing of two express buses, the X31 and X19, which now travel through New Jersey to avoid traffic jams on the Gowanus.
Staten Island- A "One Fare" Zone
In addition to saying "goodbye" to the ferry fare, there's more happy news for commuters. Starting on July 4, all bus and train riders using MetroCard will only pay one fare per trip, even if they need a transfer. In the past, Staten Islanders lived in a "three fare" zone. I have testified many times in support of the one-fare zone and I am pleased that, this year, it will come to pass.
Improving Intersections
Intersection improvements are on the top of many citizens' lists. My office worked with DOT to widen the Amboy-Huguenot intersection. We are advocating a left-turn signal at many sites to relieve gridlock. I worked directly with the NYC Department of Transportation Commissioner Chris Lynn to expedite a design to add turn lanes and improve safety at Amboy Road and Tysens Lane. More local roadway improvements are on the way.
Deadly Curves
Many lives are lost in traffic accidents on Staten Island. We are fighting DWI, speeding and reckless driving, but a severe curve can't be fought... it can only be straightened. That's why I successfully negotiated to remove the dangerous curve on Todt Hill Road near Willow Road. At Ocean Avenue and Father Capodanno Boulevard, another deadly curve, we are finally seeing installation of a traffic light which will allow pedestrians in this neighborhood, many of whom are elderly, to cross safely.
With A Little Help From Our Friends
The St. George Ferry Terminal is in the midst of a top-to-bottom renovation. With help from Mayor Giuliani, Governor Pataki and Congresswoman Susan Molinari we will be converting this long-standing eyesore into a first class, intermodal facility. In addition, plans are being finalized for the replacement of the three Kennedy class car boats with new boats designed to retain much of the charm of ferry boats from the past.
Tear The Toll Booths Down
In the wake of Congresswoman Susan Molinari's Congressional Bill to make the One-way Toll permanent, I immediately demanded that the toll booths be torn down. The MTA is currently studying how it can be done.
Seeing Red Over Closed Toll Booths
It's bad enough Staten Islanders have to pay tolls at four bridges. We deserve to have the plazas fully staffed, so our trip isn't further delayed by closed booths. I call the MTA and PA constantly, particularly before holiday weekends, and insist there be no red lights, and no closed booths inconveniencing our travelers. I also want E-Z Pass lanes converted to manned lanes during busy weekends and holidays when the toll plazas become jammed with non-commuter traffic.
Easier Access To Outerbridge
At my urging, the State DOT has rectified a long standing congestion spot by re-striping the Outerbridge Crossing Exit on the southbound West Shore Expressway (440) to allow for two lanes of traffic.
Signs To Aid Travel
All highway exit signs throughout Staten Island are being replaced with new signs, using a numbered system to avoid possible confusion. An overhead variable message sign is being installed this summer near the westbound Manor Road Exit on the Staten Island Expressway to alert drivers of delays on the three New Jersey crossings. In addition, several new "trailblazer" signs on highways and local streets will guide residents and tourists to local attractions, and prevent many travelers from getting lost on the way.
Trains On Schedule
The South Shore line of the Staten Island Railroad serves 425,000 customers per month. The MTA plans to upgrade the signal system by 1999 which will greatly enhance speed and overall passenger capacity.
A New Railroad For S.I.
Ten years ago, I said to Staten Island, "We have an old abandoned railroad on the North Shore. Let's revive it and use it!" Most of you agreed. While some skeptics grumbled it would never happen, Congresswoman Susan Molinari, Mayor Giuliani and myself have accumulated Federal and City dollars to put trains back on the North Shore. We stopped the sale of the rail bed right-of-way for development. Now, watch as the line is upgraded for freight service and the Arthur Kill Lift Bridge is repaired. In the future, when this line is re-activated for passenger service, we will be able to offer clean, operating trains as an alternative to motor vehicles.
Great Kills Ferry?
The Great Kills community fears that private ferry service operating out of Great Kills harbor will interfere with boating and overwhelm parking spaces. I agree with residents and oppose a private ferry at this location. We've formed a task force with Councilman Vito Fossella and area residents to seek another site, if feasible.
Fast Ferries in St. George
Great news. Many Staten Islanders are lining up to take the new Fast Ferry from St. George to Midtown. In this case, travel by water is faster than wheels.
A New Ferry Dock
I have committed $100,000 in funding for construction of a new ferry dock, directly serving the Snug Harbor Cultural Center. The ferries will carry tourists to Snug Harbor directly from Manhattan.
$2 Million For A Smooth Ride
Ever imagine you're riding on the Moon's surface when driving on some local roads? That's why I commit $2 million of your capital dollars to mill and re-pave miles of roadway every year.
Reckless Driving
At the root of many traffic accidents is NOT the need for traffic lights or road improvements- it's just plain reckless, aggressive driving. I'm working with the police to deter speeders, people who tailgate or cut you off , or fail to signal. The way to safer roads is safer drivers!
25 New Traffic Signals
Communities have clamored for new traffic signals, in response to an increase to reckless driving and accidents. My office has been working with the NYC Department of Transportation to secure new traffic signals throughout the Island. We will continue to respond to your requests for improved safety and traffic control.
Twenty-five traffic lights are now being installed at the following locations:
· Fort Place @ St. Marks Place
· Jewett Avenue @ Richmond Terrace
· Targee Street @ Palma Drive @ Mary Street
· Walker Street @ Trantor Place
· Howard Avenue @ Entrance To Wagner College
· Forest Avenue @ Van Pelt Avenue
· Victory Boulevard @ Labau Avenue
· Father Capodanno @ Hunter Avenue
· Ocean Avenue @ Father Capodanno Boulevard
· Seaview Avenue @ Jefferson Street
· Richmond Hill Road @ Merrymount Street
· Merrymount Street @ Travis Avenue
· Richmond Hill Road @ Ring Road
· Richmond Hill Road @ Kelly Boulevard
· Richmond Road @ Rome Avenue
· Hylan Boulevard @ Yetman Avenue
· Bloomingdale Road @ Woodrow Road
· Rossville Avenue @ Woodrow Road
· Page Avenue @ Richmond Valley Road
· Amboy Road @ Luten Avenue
· Huguenot Avenue @ Ramona Avenue
· Hylan Boulevard @ Woods Of Arden
· Hylan Boulevard @ Barclay Avenue
· Richmond Avenue @ Forest Promenade
· Amboy Road @ Timber Ridge Drive
Traffic Safety Information Available
Interested in handy brochures on driver safety and pedestrian safety? Call Borough President Molinari's HelpLine at 816-2000 for free copies. Supplies are limited, call today.
Airplane Noise A Nightmare
Newark Airport is three miles away, but departing aircraft sound like their engines are roaring right in our North Shore communities' bedrooms. Planes fly overhead as low as 1000 feet in Mariner's Harbor, Arlington, and other nearby neighborhoods. For years, I have tried every avenue available to me as Borough President to force the FAA to change these plane routes. Recently the FAA responded to my urgent requests and announced that permanent changes are being made to flight patterns to avoid populated areas of Staten Island. I am asking the FAA to follow up on their promises by providing my office with actual data on the new flight tracks within the next three months. Staten Islanders deserve relief from overwhelming airplane noise, and I am committed to making sure that the FAA promises become a reality.
Borough Down-Zoning Moves Forward
Here's good news for residents who would like to see their communities re-zoned. Since 1989, when low density contextual zoning was established, we have seen ten separate down-zonings in South Richmond alone. I supported and approved each of these re-zonings. Seven Mid-Island and four North Shore re-zonings were also approved, and I supported each of these re-zonings as well.
Molinari Opposes 100-Unit Development
Most recently, I stepped forward to stop construction of a 100 unit development which is in violation of new zoning regulations and out of character for the area. Although nine foundations are already in place, it would be wrong to allow construction to continue, and I believe we will win our case. This case in Tottenville is an example of how re-zoning gives us the legal right to stop out-of-context development.
Major Zoning Study Nearing Completion
Councilman Vito Fossella and I have jointly funded a full South Richmond Zoning Study, which should be unveiled soon. We are working hand-in-hand with residents from all affected communities. The study will lead to the first across-the-board zoning change in decades. I believe it will address many of your concerns about on-going development, the loss of open space, increased traffic, and overcrowded schools.
Sales Tax Questionnaire Results- Thank You
Over 800 Staten Islanders responded to my previous survey on sales tax. Thank you for taking the time. Your information is very valuable. We'll be showing this data to State officials.
· Did you purchase clothing during Sales Tax Relief Week?
Yes 90% No 10%
· Approximately how much did you spend?
Under $100 17%
$150-250 50%
$250-500 23%
Over $500 10%
· How often do you shop for clothing in New Jersey?:
Frequently 65%
Occasionally 21%
Rarely 10%
Never 4%
· If sales tax on clothing in New York is eliminated, how often would you shop for clothing in New Jersey?
Frequently 11%
Occasionally 9%
Rarely 37%
Never 43%
It's a Free Ride!
Borough President Molinari gains agreement from Mayor Giuliani to make the ferry fare "free." "In years past, Staten Islanders have been "taken for a ride" by the City. Now, we've finally been given a free ride." Good News for Staten Island- the 92 year legacy of ferry fares id over! A ride on the Staten Island Ferry will be free staring on July 4, 1997, thanks to an agreement I obtained from Mayor Rudy Giuliani. Earlier this year, I conducted a cost analysis that showed the City could eliminate the ferry fare with minimal financial impact. I knew what jettisoning the fare would mean to Staten Island, so I suggested the idea to Rudy Giuliani. The Mayor agreed with my assessment. Staten Islanders basically suffered a three-fare zone if they took a bus to the ferry, and then a train or any other such combination. Removing the ferry fare gives Staten Islanders equal footing with other City residents. Staten Islanders certainly deserve this free ride.
(preceding news was brought to you by Borough President Guy V. Molinari- Staten Island, New York)
News from the office of Councilman Fusco:
Midland Beach: Improving...Maintaining...Enhancing!
Many Staten Islanders are familiar with James Q. Wilson's "broken window theory"- the belief that a broken window left unattended is an invitation for more vandalism and likely can lead a community down a slippery slope to neglect and criminality. When civic and business leaders looked at parts of their Midland Beach community, they saw more than a few "broken windows" and they feared what might be next for their neighborhood. Through the Midland Beach Civic Association and the Midland Beach Merchants Association, the community contacted Councilman Fusco and demanded action. Within a short period of time, the Midland Beach Task Force was born. Councilman Fusco, in cooperation with Tom Cocola of the Mayor's Community Assistance Unit, assembled representatives from numerous city agencies to create the Task Force to map out a comprehensive plan to address the various quality of life problems affecting Midland Beach- including, drugs, illegally converted and overcrowded bungalows and garbage-strewn yards and lots. On March 1st words became actions as the Task Force focused on a particular problematic two-block area identified in consultation with the civic association. City officials issued summonses for building and health, sanitary and fire code violations. "Beyond the summonses and violations, a clear message was sent. Residents and city government care about this community, and this is just the beginning of what may be an extended process to protect, maintain and enhance Midland Beach. Illegal profiteers, criminals and irresponsible tenants should beware because Midland Beach is no place to set up shop," stated Councilman Fusco.
Father Capodanno Gets "Straightened Out"
"We wouldn't consider an alternative that didn't separate the main part of traffic from the main part of the traffic from the residents... I can't have another car on those people's front laws. We have to the engineering." -DOT S.I. Borough Commissioner Jack Larson Councilman Fusco was elated to announce that the Department of Transportation has designed a formal plan for the straightening of "Dead Man's Curve" on Father Capodanno Boulevard between Hunter and mapleton Avenues. At Fusco's insistence, DOT engineers conceived the design that would not only straighten the deadly stretch of roadway but, in addition, would provide a 24-foot service road and safety buffer median for the homes fronting Father Capodanno Boulevard. Arriving at a permanent solution to remedy the perilous condition existing on Father Capodanno had become an unyielding priority for Councilman Fusco. After several temporary, band-aid approaches taken to address this hazardous situation, the Councilman orchestrated an on-site visit with officials and engineers from the Departments of Transportation and Parks in order to develop a final plan that would protect motorists and residents alike. The result of this visit and several subsequent planning meetings was the straightening/median proposal that should prevent the tragedies associated with this location. The Councilman expressed his gratitude to the Giuliani Administration and Community Board 2 for working so closely with him on this issue. "This is an illustration of the dramatic results that can be achieved when all aspects of government respond to the pleas of a community and work together to attack the problem," noted Fusco.
Flood No More: Fusco leads a tour of Meiers Corner to resolve major flooding problem
When a residential neighborhood require rowboats instead of cars in order to go to the local deli, it's time to take drastic action. Councilman Fusco's intervention was sought after the terrible nor'easter of last October caused enormous damage to homes and caused major flooding. Councilman Fusco toured the area with residents on Saturday, November 23, 1996 and after assessing the problem, promised to return with officials from the Departments of Environmental Protection and Design and Construction. On December 12, 1996. Fusco made good on his pledge and returned with agencies in tow and pressured them for a commitment to redesign the storm sewer to permit better water flow and reduce flooding. Councilman Fusco looked into manholes and ventured down a ravine to follow the local creek to better understand the problem. The community was elated when Jack Vokral stated, "We are doing this in direct response to those of DEP's division of Capital Programs and Planning, announced that DEP will increase the storm water pipe to 60 inches. Mr. Vokral stated , "We are doing this in direct response to those concerns raised by Fusco and the residents of this community. This is the right thing to do." The upper end of the storm sewer project was increased in size to accommodate the existing stream pending additional storm sewers in the area. Specifically, the Willowbrook Road storm sewer project that will cut through Roosevelt, Buchanan and Fillmore Avenues, will be increased in size from 42" to 60" to permit a better flow of storm water and prevent flooding on the neighborhood streets. Councilman Fusco expressed pleasure that the city agencies agreed to redesign a part of this storm sewer project to reduce flooding in the community and to bring relief to the local residents who have been struggling with this problem for a long time.
Fusco: "No Way To B.J.'s"
Council Member Fusco commended the vote by the City Planning Commission denying a special permit application that would have permitted B.J.'s Warehouse Club, a warehouse-style department store, to open in Travis at 3827 Victory Boulevard. The site had been vehemently opposed by Councilman Fusco, along with members of the surrounding community, and Community Board 2. Councilman Fusco noted, "This outcome is the perfect example of government being responsive to the needs and concerns of a community. The people of Travis would not be hoodwinked or deceived into accepting any project regardless of its negative impact on the community." The opposition to this venture stemmed from the nightmarish traffic conditions that currently exist in and around the proposed B.J.'s site. This long section of Victory Boulevard is uninterrupted by traffic signals and has evolved into a major speedway for traffic and a menace to the surrounding neighborhood.
"Mews" Is The News On New Dorp Lane
Councilman Fusco announced the unveiling f the Mews Main Street Prototype Commercial Revitalization project for new Dorp Lane. Mews Main Street is a joint initiative between the New York City Economic Development Corporation and the New Dorp Lane Merchants Association designed to revitalize and improve New Dorp Lane. The $1.7 million project, funded by Councilman Fusco, is one of the largest commercial district improvement projects ever brought to Staten Island. The important work of the New Dorp Merchants Association, the New Dorp Central Civic Association, and the Little Theater Group, in advancing the project and lending their invaluable resources, as well as the efforts and expertise of the New York Economic Development Corporation was instrumental in bringing this project to New Dorp Lane. "The energy and dedication displayed by the residents, merchants, and activists of New Dorp is vital for its continued success as a thriving business center on Staten Island."