The installation of several cement blocks at a busy intersection in Pelham Bay has split the community.

The new addition at the intersection of Burke Avenue and Cosby Street is drawing mixed reactions from Bronx residents. Some are calling it an eyesore, while others are calling for the blocks to stay. 

The cement boulders are part of a street redesign plan from the city’s Department of Transportation to help improve safety by reinforcing pedestrian spaces at bus islands. The DOT says it “will shorten the time it takes to cross the street and create safer turning angles for drivers.”

Between 2015 and 2019, 26 injuries occurred at this intersection, with half of those being injuries to pedestrians. The DOT says that the majority of the injuries were due to turning vehicles hitting people and people not using the crosswalk. 

While most residents in the area agree that an extra safety measure is a good thing, some aren’t sold on this being the best plan of action. 

“To think of all the things we can do to accommodate the public, three massive rocks really aren’t it,” said one frustrated neighbor.

Others expressed concerns to News 12 that the cement boulders may not be visible enough to see over the dashboard of a vehicle. One driver didn’t notice them when he accidentally drove into the pedestrian space. 

Both residents and the city’s transportation department hope the changes will help to reduce congestion as well.