DOT adds granite blocks to increase safety at gas station

Elected officials and residents in Sunset Park are praising the Department of Transportation for installing new granite blocks at a local gas station.

People have long been upset with the safety at the Speedway gas station. They say cars speed into the station and drive on the sidewalks to get to the gas pumps.

Parents were especially concerned because P.S. 172 is located near the area. After numerous complaints concerning the area's safety, the DOT met with the principal of the school, parents and elected officials on Feb. 28.

As a result of the discussion, the DOT installed granite blocks on the sidewalk to enhance safety.

Sunset Park residents tell News 12 they are happy to see the city's DOT listening to those who live in the area and say the blocks seem to be working overall.

"The people need to be kept safe so if there are situations where there is a constant problem and a constant nuisance that is going to create danger, any which way to alleviate that is what needs to get done," said Alejandro Alvarez of Sunset Park.

Officials with the DOT also say they plan to install a no-standing regulation on 31st Street to increase visibility.