Skip to Content
Streetsblog New York City home
Streetsblog New York City home
Log In
Brooklyn

Illegal Parking Now “Legal” for Marty Markowitz

bklynbp1.jpg

Yesterday we wondered if the city might be convinced to reconcile its vision of a sustainable city with its anti-urban parking policies. We'll mark this one in the "no" column.

Late last week Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz was busted by Uncivil Servants for parking on the sidewalk in front of Borough Hall during a meeting in which DOT unveiled its long awaited Downtown Brooklyn Transportation Blueprint -- check out Priority Initiative #9 below (or download the entire list)...

marty_parking2.gif

Regardless of DOT priorities, it turns out that parking on sidewalks is only illegal for drivers who aren't the Borough President or members of his staff, as the Daily News reports:

The Parks Department has struck a deal with Markowitz, allowing him and his staffers to park on the plaza along the east side of Borough Hall and even on the sidewalk on Joralemon St. next to a busy newsstand, Markowitz's office said Tuesday.

Markowitz's office argued it is perfectly legal for him to park on the busy sidewalk.

"We have an agreement with the Parks Department that is authorized by signage along that side of the building that allows permitted vehicles to use that space," said Markowitz spokesman Mark Zustovich.

The Parks Department said they could not comment on the exact location of Markowitz's car the night of the hearing, but confirmed they had recently granted Markowitz the right to park on the flagstone walkway to the east of the building - but not on the plaza behind Borough Hall where Markowitz's staffers used to park.

Markowitz last year tried to block a prohibition on cars in Prospect Park, until DOT did it anyway.

As Markowitz is flirting with a mayoral candidacy, livable streets advocates are getting a preview of how their agenda would fare under Mayor Marty. All together now: Fuhgeddaboudit!

Side note: Here's a reason to hope for a Hillary Clinton presidency -- Marty Markowitz, Ambassador to Trinidad.

Photos: Uncivil Servants

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog New York City

Reining in Deliverista Distances is the Key to Safety

A mileage fee on food deliveries can serve workers as well as the society of which they’re a part. What are we waiting for? 

November 5, 2024

State Now Considering Car-Free Connector Next To Cross-Bronx Expwy Instead of Covert Highway

Perhaps all of the local outrage over building a parallel highway to the Cross Bronx is working?

November 5, 2024

DECISION ’24: The Next President Needs a Vision for America’s Transportation Future

No matter who wins the White House, advocates are ready to push for the transportation system we all deserve — starting with these nine principles.

November 5, 2024

Tuesday’s Headlines: Vote Like Your Life Depends on It Edition

Forgive us for wishing that a presidential candidate — ever — addressed the nation's road violence epidemic. Plus other Election Day news.

November 5, 2024

Slaughter of the Innocents: SUV Driver Kills Upper West Side Teen

Thirteen-year-old Niyell McCrorey is the 15th child killed by drivers so far this year, and at least the 97th pedestrian.

November 5, 2024
See all posts