Press Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Release #05-66
Friday September 16, 2005

DOT to Enhance Safety on Williamsburg Bridge Bike Path

The New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) today announced it will make improvements to the steel plates covering the joints on the Williamsburg Bridge pedestrian and bicycle path. An independent consultant, Weidlinger Associates, recently completed its evaluation of the joints and presented the department with recommendations that will enhance the safety of the bridge's bicycle and pedestrian path.

"Bridges are built with joints because they expand and contract as the temperature changes, and these joints have to be covered for the safety of the people who use the bridge," said Transportation Commissioner Iris Weinshall. "Fortunately, we have developed a way to cover the joints on the Williamsburg Bridge that creates a smoother surface and provides the safest possible crossing for the hundreds of pedestrians and cyclists who use the bridge each day."

The consultant was hired in March, 2005 to examine the joints after community groups requested that DOT study the steel plates, which create bumps in the roadway. The following improvements will be made beginning Friday, September 16, 2005 and will be completed by the end of November.

Rendition of Fixed Joint Improvement
Fixed Joint Improvement
Rendition of Expansion Joint Improvement
Expansion Joint Improvement
Rendition of Plated Joint
Example of Plated Joint Currently on Williamsburg Bridge Pedestrian/Bicycle Path

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Contact: Kay Sarlin (212) 442-7033
Chris Gilbride