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*** Press Release***

January 15th, 2014

Contact: Russell Murphy (917) 584-9574

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COUNCIL MEMBER RODRIGUEZ SUPPORTS MAYOR BILL DE BLASIO'S PLAN TO ACHIEVE 'VISION ZERO' OVER A DECADE

New York, NY-- Today, Mayor Bill deBlasio announced a new inter-agency initiative dedicated to protecting the lives of pedestrians in New York City, following a recent uptick in traffic related pedestrian deaths. Council Member Ydanis Rodriguez had this to say in support:

"The mayor's announcement of his commitment to achieve "Vision Zero" is encouraging news for a city that has seen far too many traffic related pedestrian deaths in recent months. This shows that Mayor de Blasio is meeting an issue of vital importance head on and I fully support his efforts in achieving this goal. In Northern Manhattan, we unfortunately experience more pedestrian deaths from traffic related incidents than the citywide average. Measures such as greater traffic enforcement, speed cameras, slow zones and more, can help to keep people safe and avoid further loss of precious life on our streets. This also includes allowing the city to control its own traffic camera enforcement measures, something that Albany has unfortunately been reluctant to let go of. Yet, I hope that through the mayor's efforts, we will be able to expand this program as soon as possible. I am glad to see the Mayor taking a proactive approach on such a serious issue in our city."