FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Release #15-085
Scott Gastel/Jose Bayona (212) 839-4850
NYC DOT Unveils Finalized Resurfacing Along 37th Avenue from the BQE to Junction Boulevard
Work will improve critical corridor that serves residents and businesses in the Queens area
As the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) continues to address roadways across the five boroughs this year, this week crews finalized resurfacing key portions of 37th Avenue from the Brooklyn Queens Expressway to Junction Boulevard to provide a safer, smoother roadway for Queens drivers.
Traffic volumes during the day made it difficult to close 37th Avenue without a major impact on the community. DOT performed critical work during the day and routine maintenance at night. Crews can work faster at night—in most cases, night work is completed two to three times faster than the same work done during the day. DOT resurfaced this critical commercial corridor to better serve residents and the business that utilize this vital avenue after consultation with the Community Board and elected officials.
“Investing in our streets and keeping them in a state of good repair has been a priority for the City,” said Nicole Garcia, DOT Queens Borough Commissioner. “The new, freshly paved 37th Avenue reflects that commitment, and provides more than 20 blocks of smoother, safer roadway that support local commerce and the residents and families who rely on these businesses for neighborhood errands, eating, shopping and other services.”
“The past winter took quite a toll on our city streets,” said Council Member Daniel Dromm. “The long-awaited repaving of 37th Avenue will benefit many, including residents, businesses and visitors to Jackson Heights. I applaud the NYC Department of Transportation for completing this important project and for helping to improve the safety and efficiency of this very important commercial corridor.”
“From Jackson Heights to Corona, 37th Avenue is vital for business and a vibrant community hotspot, and it is essential to keep it safe and efficient,” said Council Member Julissa Ferreras. “Thank you to the NYC Department of Transportation for their speedy repair work and for keeping our neighborhood beautiful.”
Once a street is resurfaced, it becomes a protected street for five years. DOT does not issue street opening permits for protected streets, except for emergency work. Repairs to potholes or other street defects are performed on protected streets.
For information about DOT’s ongoing efforts to address potholes and maintain more than 6,000 miles of roadway, please visit www.nyc.gov/dot, and please report any pothole condition to The Daily Pothole or to 311.
—30—