New traffic pattern in Queens causing nightmare for drivers
ASTORIA, Queens (WABC) -- A new traffic pattern in Queens is causing a nightmare for commuters, with drivers urged to steer clear of 35th Street and 31st Avenue in Astoria, at least for the time being.
The city turned 31st Avenue into a one-way street from 35th Street to Steinway Street for the benefit of bicyclists, but ongoing construction is causing nonstop tie-ups for anyone on four wheels.
Residents say they aren't too pleased with the traffic, either.
"It's just become a nightmare. I get that it's a process, but the way they went about it, just didn't handle very well," said Astoria resident Keith Schneider.
Another resident, Kimberly Ottomano, says she's concerned about the noise and access for first responders.
"Horns are blasting all day. We can't rest, we can't think. Ambulances can't even get through," she said.
The New York City Department of Transportation urged caution while road work continues in the area, according to a statement.
"There is active construction underway on 31st Avenue as NYC DOT works to complete the first phase of its planned redesign of the corridor-and all road users should use caution when traveling through work zones. The redesign of 31st Avenue will help protect pedestrians and cyclists, support Open Street operation, and strengthen connections to the 16.5 lane miles of protected bike lanes, and 21 lane miles of standard bike lanes and shared lanes in the area."
The city's DOT says it conducted community outreach for this project since 2023.
Officials say traffic backups are likely related to the active construction. Officials add that they will continue to monitor 31st Avenue closely during and after implementation to make any adjustments needed.
You can read more about the existing infrastructure and proposed work along 31st Avenue on the NYC DOT website.
----------
* More Queens news
* Send us a news tip
* Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts
* Follow us on YouTube
Submit a tip or story idea to Eyewitness News
Have a breaking news tip or an idea for a story we should cover? Send it to Eyewitness News using the form below. If attaching a video or photo, terms of use apply.
