DOT testimony on Intro 866: disruptive work signage

Next, Intro 866, sponsored by Councilmember Epstein.

This bill would require DOT to post signs in advance with

in a 500-foot radius of a location of disruptive work.

Disruptive work, as defined in the legislation, means work that is performed by DOT or pursuant to a permit issued by DOT that is expected to create street, sidewalk, or parking space closures,

reroute traffic, relocation of bus stops or bike share stations, or work between 8 p.m.

And 8 a.m.

That includes noise, vibrations, or bright lighting.

DOT already posts informational signs for long-term construction projects pursuant to existing requirements.

We understand the need to communicate effectively to New Yorkers when there will be disruptive construction work.

We believe that existing rules and current practices accomplish the goals of this bill while balancing operational needs.

In addition to the informational construction signs, we have other tools in our toolkit to appropriately notify and involve communities within project areas.

For example, our street ambassadors meet people where they are by discussing project impacts in communities on the street.

We also deploy variable message signs when needed.

Of course, we also are proud of the ongoing partnerships we have with the council and the community boards to utilize your networks to spread the word with residents about critical projects in your neighborhoods.

Although we support the goal of the bill as described with our existing toolkit of communication efforts, we have a number of concerns with the current scope of the bill and would prefer to utilize existing requirements on construction signage to meet the intended goals.

With affordability and project delivery a top priority in this administration, we would be wary of creating additional requirements which would slow

instruction raised costs.

We'd be happy to continue conversations with the council to identify the best way to implement notice requirements.