Flatbush residents say they are excited about the possibility of a permanent pedestrian plaza in their area.

City officials are proposing making Hillel Place a permanent pedestrian plaza. The plan would close the street off to traffic, creating a safe space for the community to gather.

Local residents and the Department of Transportation agree that it would be a positive change for the community.

The DOT released a statement in support of the plan saying, "The DOT believes that a plaza at Hillel Place will enhance safety at this important retail and transit hub and create a vibrant community gathering space."

"It's really dangerous. You have a lot of people walking down the street, the elderly population, you have women with their kids, so I think it's extremely important to get the street cut off," says shopper Stacey Baltazar.

The DOT says it will present a plan to Community Board 14 following a future workshop.