Queens Residents Demand Union Turnpike Safety Upgrades

Local community members are calling for traffic calming measures at a busy Forest Park intersection.

Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Civic Engagement

Isometric editorial illustration of a concrete curb extension extending into a gray asphalt road intersection. — Queens residents are demanding traffic safety upgrades, including curb extensions and signal repairs, at the intersection of Union Turnpike and Park Lane. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Residents in the Forest Hills and Kew Gardens area are urging the Department of Transportation to implement infrastructure changes at the intersection of Union Turnpike, Markwood Road, and Park Lane. The community reports persistent issues with speeding, poorly marked lanes, and frequent traffic light failures.

Why it matters

The intersection acts as a vital access point for pedestrians and cyclists visiting Forest Park, but residents say current conditions pose significant safety risks. Frequent traffic light outages have worsened congestion and safety concerns for those crossing the busy thoroughfare.

The Department of Transportation recently upgraded signal infrastructure in 2025 at the intersection, though residents report ongoing traffic light outages persist. The agency states it is currently monitoring the area for potential future improvements.

The players

Department of Transportation

This municipal agency is responsible for the design, construction, and maintenance of the city transportation infrastructure.

The details

Residents are specifically requesting the installation of curb extensions to shorten the pedestrian crossing distance and enforce lower vehicle speeds. Locals are also actively reporting ongoing traffic signal malfunctions to 311 to address the frequent outages.

In 2020, the Department of Transportation denied a request for a speed camera.
In 2025, the Department of Transportation upgraded signal infrastructure at the intersection.
During recent weeks, a prolonged traffic light outage occurred at the intersection.

Political Context

Local advocacy groups often argue that the city's focus on intersection safety is uneven and requires more community-driven input. Conversely, city planners frequently note that they must balance safety upgrades with the need for efficient traffic flow on major arterial roads.

Residents navigating the intersection of Union Turnpike and Markwood Road should anticipate potential traffic delays caused by reported signal outages. Reporting new light malfunctions to 311 remains the primary method for commuters to flag immediate safety hazards in the area.

The takeaway

Ongoing communication with municipal agencies is essential for neighborhood safety advocates seeking to secure infrastructure changes. Residents are encouraged to document and report recurring traffic light outages to ensure the city has a clear record of the intersection's performance.