RSS 2.0 FeedThursday, February 2, 2012, Weekly editorial
A possible public-private venture
Sunrise Highway has been the scene of way too many traffic fatalities involving pedestrians. The latest one occurred in Merrick last week. But the pain of other tragic losses in our community still lingers.
Once again, some people are calling for pedestrian bridges or tunnels and others are saying the economy has not picked up enough yet. Wouldn’t this be an opportunity for public-private partnership? That is not to suggest a toll bridge by any means. But a private sponsor could earn income from billboard advertising on the bridge or tunnel and concessions at the entrances. Staffed concessions would also make those crossing feel safer.
In Maplewood, New Jersey, a valet kiosk at the station provided busy commuters with folders and fliers about community businesses and services. An employee was on hand during rush hour to take orders and then in off-peak would pick up dry cleaning or takeout, or even drop off a car at the repair service.
A study of each community could determine whether this was a need, or if a hot dog stand or coffee kiosk was more apropos. In some places a parking garage might make sense. The question is how to build the bridges or tunnels at Sunrise Highway in a way that does not urbanize our community.
We look forward to hearing if any of our readers have any ideas.
Go Giants!
This weekend the football Super Bowl will be the occasion for many gatherings of family and friends. A former editor once said it was the biggest event after Thanksgiving for his family and many others. Local bars, cafes and restaurants will also be busy hosting Super Bowl parties. And this year many New Yorkers, not just Giants fans, have a reason to watch and root, after all it is a hometown team.
