LETTER: The Problem with Marathons in BPC
To the Editor:
Battery Park City is a thriving family community that is effectively isolated from the outside world for hours on end as a result of the marathons, bikeathons, etc.
Although many of these events are for worthwhile charities, Most participants don't live in our area, and never consider, or even care of the consequences. Worst of all, their organizer do know and don't care.
By closing West Street you cut off all bus transportation, and in most cases the ability to get taxi service. If you are disabled, walking impaired, pregnant, have small children, or otherwise cannot walk out of the neighborhood, you are grounded for a good part of the day. Although these events occur mainly on weekends, these events nevertheless impact many people's ability to get to work, school, care for your medical needs, get to other parts of the city, etc.
How many times have we read that CB#1, local politicians, etc. are "looking into the complaints" yet nothing is done? (I should add the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Run has a legitimate need to be downtown and that disruption is not a problem.)
I'm sure the bikers and joggers love going by the scenic Hudson River, but there is an alternative. Although traffic will be disrupted no matter what streets are closed, transferring these events to the FDR Drive is the solution. Unlike isolating Battery Park City by closing West Street, you can close the Drive and the entire transportation system at ground level on the East Side is NOT closed down. Residents in that area can go about their lives with minimal disruptions.
My guess is that nothing will change unless the residents of Battery Park City make it clear to our elected officials that unless they make a determined effort to rectify matters they may be out of work come election time.
TUX BRINDISI