CITY ISLAND BRIDGE ISSUES AND ANSWERS

Submitted by ub on

As preparations continue for the replacement of the old City Island Bridge and the construction of a new bridge, City Island Images found several trees have now been cut down along the park after a traffic signal was installed in same area and there are now plans to "temporarily" remove the military memorial island there.

City Island Images went to the American legion to inquire. Fred Ramftl, who works as a bartender there told us that the post commander was not available, but since Ramftl also serves as City Island Civic Association Vice President, he assured us he is well aware of DOT's plans to "temporarily" remove the memorial island located near the top of the bridge, adding that the construction project has stopped.

If this is truly the case, why were the trees cut down? Why has New York City Department of Transportation approved the installation of a traffic light in the area? Why is NYC DOT planning to close the bike and pedestrian path on the south side of the City Island Bridge to move the existing water main on the bridge?

We suggest that anyone who's interested in learning the real truth may write to press local civic leaders. city.island.civic@mac.com

The City Island Civic Association is claiming a major development in The City Island Bridge saga. They say DOT's New Commissioner Polly Trottenberg may review the design to see what changes could be implemented. In a related issue, Bronx Community Board #10 rejected the Universal Land Use Review Procedure applications submitted by DOT to build the new Bridge. This matter will now go to the Bronx Borough President’s office. The hearing will be taking place at the Bronx District Attorney's office at 198 E 161st Street on April 3rd at 6pm.

City Island Images also reached out to Huáscar Robles, the assigned community liaison for answers to these and other questions we have. We have not received an answer as of this publication and promise to update the information as soon as it becomes available and you will not have to wait one month, like another local publication, which comes out only 10 tomes a year. In the meantime, we urge all of you to contact him directly at 917.626.8391 or email him at cityislandbridgehbx1164@gmail.com if you too feel you need additional information on the project.