DOT installs “smart” left-turn signal at Bay Terrace intersection

Photo courtesy of Twitter/@NYC_DOT

Photo courtesy of Twitter/@NYC_DOT

It’s time to get smart about the technology on our streets.

Department of Transportation Queens Borough Commissioner Nicole Garcia joined State Senator Tony Avella, Councilman Paul Vallone and community leaders to unveil a new “smart” turn signal and wireless seniors at 26th Avenue and Corporal Kennedy Street in Bay Terrace.

The signal uses roadway sensors embedded in the left turn lane to detect the presence of a left-turning vehicle. The wireless sensor, known as a “puck” for its shape, is drilled into the roadway.

When a car drives over the puck, the sensor surveys traffic in the area and signal is changed (or not changed) depending on traffic conditions.

According to DOT, the sensors are deep enough to survive milling and paving. They’re battery-powered and last seven to 10 years.

“This signal is now activated only when there are vehicles waiting in the left turn lane – if no one is waiting, the left turn phase is skipped,” Garcia said. “That cuts unnecessary delays for pedestrians and drivers making other movements, which not only enhances efficiency, but also safety, since people subject to excessive delay can drive unpredictably.”

Avella said this new on-demand technology should be replicated throughout the borough.

“Combined with the additional safety enhancements that DOT will be installing along the Corporal Kennedy and 23rd Avenue corridor, we have made great strides towards improving pedestrians and motorist safety in Bayside,” Vallone said.

20th annual Silent March against Domestic Violence on Friday

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This Friday at 5 p.m., Korean American Family Service Center (KAFSC) is hosting its 20th annual Silent March against Domestic Violence in Flushing.

The “Break the Silence, End the Violence” march will begin at the 109th Precinct, located at 37-05 Union Street. The march will conclude at Flushing Library, located at 41-17 Main Street, where a press conference and rally will ensue.

More than 30 community organizations will participate in the silent march.

“KASFC is very excited to celebrate the past 20 years of our movement against domestic violence to mark an important milestone with our beloved community,” said Bomsinae Kim, KAFSC’s executive director.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

KAFSC is also launching its “31 Days of Action” social media campaign during the month and post photos of march participants holding up signs expressing why they break the silence.

John Liu to headline Greater Flushing Chamber gala

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Former Comptroller and City Councilman John Liu will headline the third anniversary gala for the Greater Flushing Chamber of Commerce on Friday, October 13.

The celebration, from 6 to 9 p.m., will take place at Daedong Manor, located at 150-24 Northern Boulevard.

In addition, the chamber will honor the following business leaders:

  • Danny Lye, CEO of Abacus Computer Company and Danny’s Steakhouse & Oyster Bar,
  • Jerry and David Antonacci, owners of Crown Container,
  • Gary Hu, president of the Flushing Chinese Business Association,
  • Rev. Wilfredo Benitrz, rector of St. George’s Church,
  • John Hong, president of HanMi Realty.

“The Gala is our biggest networking event of the year and we’re so fortunate to have such a lineup of speakers and honorees, including political superstar John Liu, to participate this year,” said John Choe, executive director of the chamber and former chief of staff to John Liu. “Attendees will learn about our accomplishments this year – including the launch of our Flushing Fantastic district marketing campaign as well as the inaugural Tour de Flushing – and also get a preview of our plans for next year.

Event registration and information is available at www.flushinggala.eventbrite.com.