Maspeth Residents, Business Owners Say New Traffic Pattern Is Creating A Bigger Mess
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- It's called the Maspeth Bypass but some locals are calling the traffic scheme the "Maspeth Mess."
The Department of Transportation's efforts to improve the traffic situation in Maspeth, Queens has been met with criticism by some residents who claim the changes have only made things worse.
After years of studies and complaints, the DOT decided to turn 58th Street at Maurice Avenue into a one-way road to divert heavy traffic away from both residential and retail areas in the neighborhood.
1010 WINS' John Montone with frustrated residents, business owners
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However, some locals claim the effort has created congestion, confusion for drivers and consternation for residents.
"It's big trouble," one man told 1010 WINS' John Montone.
There's a maze of poles, barrels and arrows and a traffic agent to help steer drivers in the right direction but they don't seem to be helping.
A gas station owner said drivers, who can't figure out which way to go, are using his business as a shortcut for quick U-turns.
He claims his business is also suffering since the new traffic layout makes it impossible for tractor trailers to fill up at his station.
"The problem is with one tractor-trailer they block all the way to the diner because it's too big," the gas station owner said. "We have no way to park our tractor-trailer to fill it up."
Workers at the Clinton Truck Stop Diner say the new configuration is also scaring away customers since they can't figure out how to navigate their way to the restaurant.
"There's no traffic going this way, coming this way, it's no good," one employee said.
The DOT released a statement saying any project that includes significant changes to traffic patterns will require an adjustment period. They say the project – designed to remove truck traffic from a residential area and simplify a complex 5-legged intersection – was requested by residents, businesses and elected officials.
"We continue to monitor the changes and will make any necessary adjustments," the DOT said.
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