$9.6 Million Safety and Traffic Flow Enhancement Project Completed on Jackie Robinson Parkway in Brooklyn

Traveling along the Jackie Robinson Parkway in Brooklyn should now be a smoother and safer experience for New Yorkers and commuters. Governor Kathy Hochul announced yesterday the completion of a $9.6 million project aimed at enhancing safety and improving traffic flow, especially on the eastbound stretches between Jamaica Avenue and Highland Boulevard. This renovation has been specifically designed to tackle the bottlenecks that have long plagued this major commuter artery.

Speaking on the improvements, Governor Hochul highlighted that the parkway is pivotal, carrying "tens of thousands of New Yorkers and the goods they rely on every single day," according to a statement obtained by the Governor's Office. The governor pledged ongoing investment to ensure New York maintains its reputation for having a strong transportation network. The project began back in the spring of 2024 and now culminates in infrastructure that boasts new acceleration lanes at Highland Boulevard and Jamaica Avenue entrance ramps, resurfaced eastbound lanes, improved signage, as well as enhanced pedestrian access.

Marie Therese Dominguez, the New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner, emphasized the impact of quality roads on the safety of the traveling public. With updates to the Jackie Robinson Parkway, "Brooklyn and Queens travelers" were mentioned to now expect a "little easier" daily journey, she told the Governor's Office. Improved roads lead to not only safer means of travel but also a commute that's more efficient and economical for all road users.

Federal support was also instrumental in bringing this project to fruition. Senator Charles Schumer stated with pride his role in helping to deliver federal dollars through the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, enhancing travel "from Brooklyn to Queens." Schumer looks forward to continuing to strengthening state infrastructure, according to the Governor's Office. This sentiment was echoed by Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Representative Nydia M. Velázquez, who both spoke to the importance of reliable infrastructure in driving economic growth and meeting the future needs of New York’s communities.

Local elected officials like State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud and Assemblymember Latrice Walker also weighed on the project’s completion. Walker applauded the efforts of Governor Hochul, the transportation department, and federal partners, highlighting that the enhancements made to the parkway will "no doubt enhance safety, ease congestion, and reduce travel time," in a quote obtained by the Governor's Office. The Department of Transportation’s mission is underscored by such projects, with its goal to foster a safe, equitable, and resilient transportation system to connect communities and undergird New York State’s economy.

For those looking for more information about the improvements or to keep abreast of the latest travel updates, the Governor's office encourages the public to visit the DOT's official website or social media platforms, or make use of tools like the 511NY mobile app.