Drivers beware. Especially those who are in a big hurry - it could cost you at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in College Point.
During a little-publicized renovation project, the first-floor office of the DMV in College Point, commonly called the “Whitestone DMV” was closed early last month.
The project is expected to keep the office closed through late-April, “at the least,” according to a spokesperson for the contractor, Rosner Construction.
He explained that they have large signs and two workers distribute leaflets and explain the March 5th closure at the entrance to the parking lot, located at 30-56 Whitestone Expressway.
However, since it takes a minute or more to inform each motorist on the line, which can stretch almost to Linden Boulevard, impatient motorists often go around the line and enter the parking lot. After they discover the office is closed, they also find themselves paying the parking fee, much to their consternation.
“Hey, we try,” said Bobby, the job supervisor, on Saturday, April 7, adding, “but some people want to be wise-guys and beat the line.” With a smile and shrug, he said, “It costs them.”
Motorists are advised to use the Jamaica DMV at 168-46 91st Avenue or the Springfield Gardens DMV at 168-35 Rockaway Boulevard.
They are also advised to remember the immortal words of W.C. Fields: “You can’t cheat an honest man.”