In the Bronx, pedestrians comprise an estimated 55% of all traffic fatalities compared to nationwide (14%). At the rate of 1.91 fatalities per 100,000 residents, the pedestrian fatality rate is higher in the Bronx than in all New York City (1.88 per 100,000). Out of 25 priority corridors in the Bronx, the Grand Concourse is the third most dangerous with the rate of 13 pedestrians killed or severely injured (KSI) per mile. Such environmental injustice can be remediated. Complete Streets is a transportation policy and design approach that can be used to promote safe and convenient active transportation. Community coalitions can be integral to building support for Complete Streets policy and implementation changes.

Design

Since 2013, following the Complete Streets approach, the Bronx Health REACH coalition and Transportation Alternatives have collaborated to ensure that the NYC Department of Transportation re-design and re-engineer the Grand Concourse to guarantee pedestrian and cyclist safety. The Bronx Health REACH coalition includes faith-based organizations whose members are Bronx residents who understand the needs (i.e., safety and infrastructure) in their built environment and have a long history of successful community outreach and coordinated advocacy efforts. These members have been involved with Transportation Alternatives, an advocacy organization, in the Grand Concourse Great Street Phase I, II, III, IV and V projects by providing testimonies at community board meetings.

Results

The Grand Concourse was re-engineered during phase I (161st St to 166th St) and II (166th St to 171st St) (Phase 2) until completion in 2017. Major renovations included expanded sidewalks and new pedestrian islands at busy intersections, as well as relocated bicycle lanes to improve cycling and pedestrian safety. The Grand Concourse Great Street Project phases III, IV, and V are scheduled for completion in May 2020, September 2022 and November 2023, respectively.

Conclusions

Reducing traffic violence on the Grand Concourse can lead to increased active transportation among Bronx residents. The concerted effort of stakeholders including the Bronx Health REACH coalition and Transportation Alternatives has helped build sustainable support for complete streets policy approval by Bronx Community Boards and implementation by the NYC Department of Transportation.