Eyes on the Street: NYC Keeps Rolling Out the Bioswales in Queens
It's fair to say that I've been geeking out over streetscape improvements in NYC that incorporate plantings to manage stormwater runoff (here, here, and here). These sidewalk expansions are popping up all over the place near my apartment in Jackson Heights.
1:30 PM EDT on September 4, 2013
It’s fair to say that I’ve been geeking out over streetscape improvements in NYC that incorporate plantings to manage stormwater runoff (here, here, and here). These sidewalk expansions are popping up all over the place near my apartment in Jackson Heights.
Recently, I was on Junction Boulevard between the Long Island Expressway and Queens Boulevard and saw some significant street reclamations. Some photos:


As you can see from the “before” photo below, the city removed a significant amount of asphalt and put in a nice helping of green where there once was nearly none. Angled parking was shifted further into the roadway for an entire block, and traffic-calming neckdowns have also been added. It all helps create more livable streets.

Clarence Eckerson Jr. is the Director of Video Production for NYCSR's StreetFilms and producer of bikeTV. He loves the color purple, chocolate chip cookies, and enjoys walking, biking, and taking transit. He has never owned a driver's license.
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