Temporary Chicanes Calm Mr. Eckerson’s Neighborhood
StreetFilms' Clarence Eckerson, Jr., shows how the alternate side dance can slow traffic.
By
Brad Aaron
3:36 PM EDT on March 11, 2008
StreetFilms’ Clarence Eckerson, Jr., shows how the alternate side dance can slow traffic.
On alternate side of the street parking days, many communities in
Brooklyn have worked out a deal so car owners are allowed to double
park without impunity so the streets can get their weekly brushing.
(Okay, let’s not touch that argument today.) During the interim
switchover when drivers are relocating their cars – usually lasting
about 15 to 20 minutes – chicanes are temporarily created, which
delightfully slow car speeds to more human levels.
Brad Aaron began writing for Streetsblog in 2007, after years as a reporter, editor, and publisher in the alternative weekly business. Brad adopted New York's dysfunctional traffic justice system as his primary beat for Streetsblog. He lives in Manhattan.
Read More:
More from Streetsblog New York City
Sunset Park Blaze Kills 6 As Lithium-ion Battery Fire Crisis Rages On
The city is experiencing a huge increase in fires caused by the lithium-ion batteries that power the delivery boom. A Thursday fire may be linked.
November 5, 2026
Mamdani Continues Crackdown On Illegal E-Motos With Brick-And-Mortar Sweep
The Mamdani administration catches dozens of brick-and-mortar businesses selling illegal e-bikes as his administration's crackdown continues.
November 5, 2026
Sanitation Truck Driver Arrested After Killing Pedestrian In Bensonhurst
The driver, Timothy McVey, 41, of Staten Island, turned himself in at the 62nd Precinct station house and was booked for failure to yield and failure to exercise due care
November 5, 2026
Election Recap: Street Safety and Transit Won Big Across the Empire State on Tuesday
New York had moments to celebrate for the street safety and urbanism crowd.
November 5, 2026
Thursday’s Headlines: ‘Brace’ for Bike Lanes and Bus Lanes Edition
Voters gave the mayor a mandate to speed up bike lanes and bus lanes and the outdoor dining application process. Plus the news.
November 5, 2026