
Staten Island residents are seeing the result of community action firsthand as city workers dismantle a contentious fence along the Martling Avenue Bridge. After intense public backlash, the once obstructive metal barrier that marred views of Clove Lakes Park is being removed, restoring unobstructed panoramas and traditional activities like fishing and flower tossing into the water as tributes.
Despite initial Department of Transportation (DOT) claims of improved safety on the bridge, residents and elected officials rallied against the measure. Westerleigh resident Paul Luxoro, witnessing the removal, expressed his relief to SI Live, "I’m happy that they’re taking the fence down. I don’t know why they put it up. There was no problem with the wall." The sentiment was echoed by Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella who, in a display of solidarity with his constituents, stated, "People of this community rightfully stood up and protested, and I applaud them,"
Mayor Eric Adams, heeding the community's united voice, overruled the DOT's decision after a campaign led by public officials and City Council Member Kamillah Hanks, who told ABC 7 NY, "This is what happens when we come together as a community." Hanks has pledged to advance legislation ensuring that public space projects incorporate community input to protect the areas that define neighborhoods.
The collective action included efforts such as a Change.org petition started by Erin Jansky that gathered nearly 2,000 signatures. This initiative, along with vociferous community engagement, convinced officials to rethink the barrier's necessity, as detailed by ABC 7 NY. Staten Island District Attorney Michael McMahon celebrated the outcome, noting, "Mr. Mayor, tear down this fence. And they listened, and the fence came down and it's a great day." The successful campaign underscores the power of local voices banding together to influence city policy and maintain their community's cherished spots.