Skip to content

Temporary Chicanes Calm Mr. Eckerson’s Neighborhood

StreetFilms' Clarence Eckerson, Jr., shows how the alternate side dance can slow traffic.


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.

Photo of Brad Aaron
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.

Streetsblog has migrated to a new comment system. New commenters can register directly in the comments section of any article. Returning commenters: your previous comments and display name have been preserved, but you'll need to reclaim your account by clicking "Forgot your password?" on the sign-in form, entering your email, and following the verification link to set a new password — this is required because passwords could not be carried over during the migration. For questions, contact tips@streetsblog.org.

More from Streetsblog New York City

Crashes Went Down 15% In Harlem Trash Container Zone, As Mamdani Hawks Citywide Rollout

April 17, 2026

Woman Killed By Hit-and-Run Trucker in Ridgewood

April 17, 2026

Columbia Agrees to Fund 125th Street Subway Elevator — But Leaves MTA Holding the Bag

April 17, 2026

Waymo Means Way Mo’ Cars, According To Uber Docs

April 17, 2026
See all posts