The Lower Manhattan Development Corporation announced today the selection of Parsons Brinckeroff as the consulting firm that will conduct the Chinatown Traffic and Transportation Study. The seven-month long study will survey pedestrian and automotive traffic issues, congestion, parking, accessibility, and related quality-of-life concerns in Chinatown. Parsons Brinckeroff will work in conjunction with LMDC’s partner agencies to develop a strategy for improving the traffic flow and related conditions in Chinatown, as well as street connections with surrounding areas of Lower Manhattan.
LMDC Chairman John C. Whitehead said, “This is another important development for Chinatown since one of the community’s biggest continuing problems have been the many traffic and transportation complications created by the tragedy of September 11th.”
LMDC Interim President Kevin Rampe said, “Since its inception, LMDC has been committed to the Chinatown community and improving the quality-of-life for its residents and business owners. The Traffic and Transportation Study will be a vital step in accomplishing this goal, as well as in the overall rebuilding of Lower Manhattan.”
Department of Transportation Commissioner, Iris Weinshall said, “We are looking forward to teaming with the LMDC to develop a comprehensive traffic and transportation plan for the residents and businesses of Chinatown. The selection of Parsons Brinkerhoff is an important step in achieving our goal. We now will commence with the study.”
Greg Kelly, Vice President of Parsons Brinckeroff said, “We are very pleased to have the opportunity to assist the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation in the continuing redevelopment of Lower Manhattan.”
Parsons Brinckeroff has been operating in New York since its founding in 1885, and completed its first project, the original IRT line of the New York City subway, in 1904. It is currently ranked #3 among U.S. transportation engineering firms by Engineering News Record and currently working on several projects in New York City area. Among them is the extension of the No. 7 subway line to the west side of Manhattan and a project to extend Long Island Rail Road service to Grand Central Terminal.
Additionally, LMDC has hired John K. Leo to act as community liaison to Chinatown. Mr. Leo has been a lifelong resident of New York and was a Chinatown community business owner for over a decade. Before joining LMDC, Mr. Leo was the Director of Member Services at Together in America (NYANA) where he managed their Chinese community outreach program. In turn, Mr. Leo will be responsible for coordinating LMDC’s outreach efforts in Chinatown.
