In Democrat-dominated New York City, much of the electoral action happens on primary day. This year's primaries are fast approaching: Voters go to the polls on September 15, four weeks from tomorrow. Contests for City Council seats, the Manhattan District Attorney's job, borough presidencies, Public Advocate, and City Comptroller will by and large be decided on that day.
One of the more intriguing races is shaping up in the 39th
Council District, which includes parts of Carroll Gardens, Park Slope,
Kensington, and Borough Park. This is the seat being vacated by Bill de Blasio --
who opposed congestion pricing last year and came out in favor of bridge tolls late in
the game during the MTA funding debate this spring. The district is heavily transit-dependent, mostly car-free [PDF], and situated in prime New York City "bike belt" territory. This election should put a strong, smart voice for progressive transportation policy in City Hall.
If you live in the 39th and care about green transportation and livable streets, you'll want to come out tomorrow night for the candidate debate Transportation Alternatives has put together. TA director Paul White will moderate the event, featuring the seven council candidates, who will discuss their views on "the bike network, congestion pricing, pedestrian safety, the MTA and livable streets issues of all stripes."
The more people attend, the more the candidates will appreciate that these issues matter to their potential constituents. Here are the details:
- When: Tuesday, August 18, 7:00 - 8:30pm
- Where: PS 321, 180 7th Avenue (between 1st and 2nd Street)
- Who: City Council candidates for District 39 (John Heyer, Brad Lander, Joe Nardiello, David Pechefsky, Gary Reilly, Josh Skaller, Bob Zuckerman)
If you don't live in the 39th, Streetsblog will have more on your local race soon. TA has sent out questionnaires to all the candidates for City Council, Borough President, Manhattan DA, and citywide office. Check here during the next few weeks for coverage of their responses.
