Queens Residents and Businesses Oppose Proposed Bike Lanes on 31st Street in Astoria

Local residents and business owners are voicing strong opposition to a city plan to introduce bike lanes along 31st Street in Astoria, warning it could harm commerce and compromise safety. The Department of Transportation (DOT) plans to narrow parking from 13 to 8 feet and traffic lanes from 14 to 11 feet, shifting parking away from the curb to create space for bike paths between 36th and Newton avenues.

The proposal has the backing of progressive lawmakers supportive of cycling initiatives. However, merchants argue that the new design would hinder truck access to businesses. A notable example is Pilates Designs by Sylvia, a fixtures manufacturer operating since 1984, owned by Panos Adamopoulos and his wife. He warns, “We’d be forced to shut down as we can’t load or unload our materials,” putting 16 jobs at risk. Additionally, navigating the narrowed streets would be challenging for delivery trucks, especially with obstructions like the overhead N/W subway line.

Meanwhile, King Souvlaki, a longstanding food truck on 31st Street since 1979, fears losing its space entirely, deeming the new layout “not safe at all” for parking and service. The proposed bike lanes would also disturb existing pick-up zones for nearby schools, including St. Demetrios, which signed a letter urging reconsideration amid concerns about child safety due to increased bicycle traffic.

Many community members have expressed their opposition through a petition, which has gained over 4,200 signatures. Concerns include heightened traffic congestion, pollution, and slower emergency response times. Nancy Esposito, from Brothers Supply Corp., warned of ripple effects on local safety and the economy, emphasizing community safety and wellbeing.

The DOT maintains that such redesigns enhance safety and support local businesses, citing ongoing consultations with merchants to refine the plan.