To: Traffic & Transportation Committee - Community Board 12 of Manhattan, Community Board 12 Chair Shahabuddeen Ally, Councilman Ydanis Rodriguez, Councilman Mark Levine, Borough President Gale Brewer, Comptroller Scott Stringer, Assemblyman...

Don't Let Columbia University Close Haven Avenue

Columbia University is planning to implement a Plaza by shutting down the 2 block distance of street from 168th to 169th and Haven Avenue in Washington Heights. Also claims that there is nowhere to hold events (indoor/outdoor) doesn't make sense when right across the street the community has been restricted from accessing the 2-acre large city-owned building (Ft. Washington Armory) which is supposed to be that space! We are also surrounded by parks.

Why is this important?

UPDATE! Despite the community outpour to stop Columbia U. from taking over the street CB12 voted in support of this plan despite the fact that the traffic study was not reviewed on the committee level and the DOT Guidelines don't suit implementing a plaza at a site such as this. Many community members however are still determined to have this decision overturned or nullified! Continue to sign and share this petition!!

The push to stop implementation of the Haven Plaza is about more than the potential 20+ parking spots that will be lost. There also is a plan to reconstruct the Riverside Viaduct between 150th and 160th street that will eliminate access to 50+ parking spots for over 42 months beginning this summer. Anyone who knows this district knows how stressed the parking situation already is.

Long before this plan residents have been impacted by the following:
1. Parents lose quality time with their children,
2. Caretakers of the elderly & disabled lose time with their patients (or loved ones)
3. Hard working residents lose sleep searching for parking (many have fallen asleep in their cars waiting)
4. Residents and commuters incur costs from tickets they can not afford
5. Residents cars are towed and often damaged due to inability to find parking
6. Traffic cruising through our neighborhood pollute our air ...

- All due to already congested streets!

These institutions have already successfully taken over and eliminated a lot of affordable housing, commercial space and street parking in this district. If you are a person that is already or will be negatively impacted by this plan sign this petition!

Let your voice be heard!