An open letter to Metropolitan Transportation Authority Chairman Jay Walder:
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing on behalf of concerned constituents in Maspeth regarding the potential relocation of a bus depot from Greenpoint, Brooklyn.
While I understand the desire of residents in Greenpoint to enhance greenspace in their neighborhood, transferring the depot to Maspeth would be an inequitable and unfair solution. Notwithstanding the fact that Maspeth already has two bus depots, there are multiple reasons why our community should not be the final destination for the depot at 65 Commercial St. The inordinate volume of truck traffic and severe dearth of greenspace currently contribute to significant pollution and congestion, issues that would be severely exacerbated by such a move.
The consequences of this situation are evident in the alarmingly high asthma rates among Queens residents in general and Maspeth residents in particular. The relocation of this bus depot would only serve to further deteriorate the quality of air that our children are breathing in.
Placing this bus depot in Maspeth without public input or notification would be unfair to my constituents. Therefore, I request the depot be moved to an alternate site and that the MTA allow for a transparent process while informing the community of this ongoing development. To do otherwise would be irresponsible on the part of the MTA.
Thank you for your consideration and attention to this matter. If you should have any questions regarding the above matter or if I can be of further assistance, do not hesitate to contact me.
Joseph Addabbo Jr.
State Senator
(D-Howard Beach)
