Cyclists face dangerous obstruction on Grand Street bike lane
Video obtained by News 12 shows cyclists maneuvering around the blockade, with some forced into traffic as trucks speed past, while others reluctantly lift their bikes over the obstruction.
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A large construction barrier on Grand Street, reportedly in place for months, is forcing cyclists into traffic, creating a risky situation for both cyclists and drivers.
Ava Filan, a local cyclist, described the danger firsthand.
"Unsafe for sure. Like, look at this bro - I'd rather go in the street than hit a pedestrian on the sidewalk,” Filan says.
Video obtained by News 12 shows cyclists maneuvering around the blockade, with some forced into traffic as trucks speed past, while others reluctantly lift their bikes over the obstruction.
Peichiao Lin, another rider, called the barrier “really annoying” and described the struggle.
"I have to, like, stop and then move my bike up and then just kind of like, go over it. It's been, like, an issue, honestly,” says Lin.
Residents say Grand Street has a history of bike accidents, including a fatal crash in July 2016, when 35-year-old cyclist Matthew Von Ohlen was struck and killed. Maria Rabassa, a local resident, emphasized the ongoing risk.
"Sometimes they're coming so fast, they don't stop. And when they see you, it's too late. And sometimes there's people crossing too. They need to clear this up very quickly,” she says.
The Department of Transportation called the obstruction “unacceptable” and said they will "take action" and coordinate with the contractor to address it. Meanwhile, cyclists continue to question the purpose of the barrier.
"What is the point of this? Like, what? Why is there a thing over here like this?” says Lin.
A Con Edison spokesperson tells News 12 that the barrier is covering a temporary power cable and will be removed once the electrical work is completed, assuring that public safety remains a top priority.
