CB2 transportation committee unanimously backs ‘Sammy’s Law’ slow‑zone ask for CB2 and congestion zone

Community Board 2’s Traffic and Transportation Committee unanimously endorsed a resolution asking the city to implement 20 mph speed limits under the state’s 2024 Sammy’s Law across Community Board 2 and within the congestion‑pricing zone.

Kevin, a street‑safety advocate, and members of Families for Safe Streets presented crash data and personal testimony urging lower speed limits. Survivor Kate Brockwell described being struck as a pedestrian and urged board members to press the city for broader implementation: “Our goal with Sammy’s Law is to keep trying to urge vehicles to slow down so that when crashes happen, they are at slower speed and more of us survive,” she said.

Presenters cited 2025 figures — 206 traffic fatalities citywide — and board‑level figures that showed hundreds of crashes in CB2 last year, including injuries and deaths. They said lowering posted limits and improved signage is associated with fewer fatal crashes; DOT representatives and advocates discussed how signage replaces 25 mph signs with 20 mph postings and how automated enforcement thresholds (tickets issued at 10 mph over the posted limit) interact with the change.

Committee members asked about enforcement and camera placement; DOT staff said camera locations are not publicly disclosed but are selected based on crash data and proximity to schools. The advocates recommended CB2 ask for district‑wide implementation; proponents argued that drivers do not respect board boundaries and that consistent area limits reduce danger.

After discussion, the chair called for a vote; the committee reported unanimous support and directed a resolution be drafted for full board consideration, emphasizing coordination with DOT and local councilmembers.