New York’s Staten Island. City workers were seen removing a contentious security fence that had been erected on the Martling Avenue Bridge close to Clove Road just over two months earlier.
Residents and the authorities were incensed about the fencing that obstructed the tranquil vista of Clove Lakes Park and its fauna.
Residents of Staten Island are celebrating today after a fierce struggle to remove the annoying barrier.
Paul Luxoro, a resident of Westerleigh, was seen observing the fencing being taken down by city personnel.
I’m glad the fence is being taken down. Luxoro remarked, “I have no idea why they posted it.” The wall was in perfect condition.
On January 21, 2025, Paul Luxoro, a resident of Westerleigh, observes city workers removing contentious fencing at the Martling Avenue Bridge. (Jan Somma-Hammel/Staten Island Advance)Jan. Somma-Hammel/Staten Island Advance
At first, the DOT claimed that the barrier would increase bridge safety, including for pedestrians crossing beneath it. Additionally, the DOT stated that whenever it replaces or renovates a bridge structure that spans roads, railroads, or navigable bodies of water, it installs pedestrian fencing.
Fishermen will once more be able to cast their reel over the edge of the bridge, and memorial flowers for the deceased can be thrown into the sea below. Visitors can enjoy the busy wildlife that calls the park and lake home without any visual hindrance, and wedding photos can be shot without hesitation.
Community effort
On January 21, 2025, city workmen are seen removing barriers at the Martling Avenue Bridge next to Clove Road. (Jan Somma-Hammel/Staten Island Advance)Jan. Somma-Hammel/Staten Island Advance
Mayor Eric Adams overturned the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) decision to build the Martling Avenue Bridge, and a group of Staten Island government officials, led by Borough President Vito Fossella, announced in late December 2024 that two unsightly walls near the bridge would be taken down.
At a recent press conference to announce the fence’s dismantling, Fossella said, “I applaud the people of this community who rightfully stood up and protested.” Our voices were heard clearly and loudly. We made it clear that we would not be stopping.
Since the fence’s construction in November, local residents have been instrumental in the opposition against it.
According to Councilman David Carr (R-Mid-Island/South Brooklyn), contractors conducted an evaluation on the property in December, and work to remove the barrier is anticipated soon.
Erin Jansky, a resident of Westerleigh, even started a change.Many contributors to the petition, which had gathered close to 2,000 signatures, recalled idyllic times spent at the bridge, which is a section of the Martling Dam, which was constructed between 1928 and 1929.
+ There are no comments
Add yours