Gov. Hochul plans parking ban near NYC elementary school crosswalks

New York’s Staten Island. According to a recent Gothamist article, Governor Kathy Hochul wants to remove parking spots next to primary school crosswalks in New York City as part of a larger pedestrian safety strategy.

According to the report, this plan, which was one of Hochul’s recommendations in the 2025 State of the State speech, would eliminate some parking spots and prohibit parking within 20 feet of any crosswalks close to elementary schools in the five boroughs.

Daylighting is the process of clearing parking spaces and other items from the street close to crosswalks so that cars can view pedestrians who are waiting to cross.

According to Gothamist, New York City has a unique exemption that permits it to establish its own parking regulations, even though state law already prohibits parking within 20 feet of a crosswalk.

According to the news outlet, New York City only prohibits parking on crosswalks—not close to them—with this exception.

60% of all pedestrian fatalities in New York City occur at crossings, and inadequate visibility is frequently a major contributing factor, according to the governor’s office’s 2025 State of the State book, which is openly accessible online.

Hochul stated that she hopes to safeguard children in their most vulnerable areas by implementing this adjustment, according to the proposal.

The annual State of the State address serves as a plan for New York’s objectives, which this year include improving affordability, achieving climate goals, developing housing, and strengthening public safety.

The governor pledged to increase police presence on platforms and trains, including patrols on all trains between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. over the next six months, among other initiatives and commitments.