A major conflict in Astoria is the proposal to close Shore Boulevard to through traffic. Shore Boulevard runs along the waterfront next to Astoria Park on the north-western side of Astoria. Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas proposed the closure earlier this year, and has received a mixed response from local residents.

Many feel that the boulevard should remain open, as it is a major road that many people travel to and from work on a daily basis and one of the main roads. Others feel that the road should be closed to allow for more pedestrians and bicyclists to ride along the shore that is next to the park. Astoria Park is a popular destination for runners, cyclists and dog-walkers.

There have been many traffic accidents along this stretch of road over the past few decades. More recently there have been two accidents caused by speeding pedestrians, where cars have driven off the road into the river. Many accidents have resulted in deaths of car passengers and pedestrians.

One local resident has started a petition against the proposal that has over a thousand supporters. The petition became so noticeable that Assemblywoman Simotas reached out to the resident for a conference about the proposal.

Alternatives to Assemblywoman Simotas’ proposal have been suggested, such as only closing half of the road, making a lane for cyclists, and changing the roadway to a one-way street, rather than a two-way street.

I want to learn more about the proposal and the feelings of those who live in the area, as well as how local business owners feels about the closing of the road and if they feel it will hurt business if a main road is closed down.