BP MARKOWITZ STATEMENT ON BILL THAT WOULD BAN AUTOMOBILES FROM PROSPECT PARK

“In many respects, the goal of having a car-free Prospect Park is a laudable one.  However, as the borough president I must represent all Brooklyn residents, including those who drive through Prospect Park as well as those who reside near the park that may be negatively impacted by additional restrictions. Currently, the only time the Park Drive is open to motorists is on weekdays, northbound from 7 a.m. - 9 a.m. and southbound from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.  This schedule was decided on jointly by the Office of the Brooklyn Borough President, the Brooklyn City Council delegation, Prospect Park Alliance, the NYC Department of Transportation and the NYC Police Department. I agree with Mayor Bloomberg in opposing changes proposed under this new bill, and believe the existing limited access for automobiles in Prospect Park sufficiently balances the needs of all users.”