The following is an ‘Ask The Mayor’ question submitted to TLS, and the Mayor’s response. Email your questions for the Mayor to [email protected].
Question:
Dear Mayor Coles,
Thank you for making yourself available to the public via this forum. My question is regarding infrastructure, but not traffic. Given the population explosion here in town, it seems as though nearly every neighborhood has large or small construction sites with active projects. I was wondering if any ordinances exist regarding securing active construction zones. There are many hazards at any construction site, and particularly over the weekends when there are no workers present, these areas are like magnets to young children. I am especially concerned about boys ages 7-14, who may not always be closely supervised but still have yet to develop good judgement. While parents must do their part, any parent living within a 10 block radius of such a site can attest to the challenges of keeping their children away from exploring.
I was recently in New York City and I was impressed at the regulations in place at building sites. There are secure fences surrounding site perimeters that cannot be scaled and gates that are locked outside of work hours. There is contact information clearly posted in case of emergencies. There is adequate lighting at night. To be sure, there are plenty of windows and peep-holes for curious bystanders–watching (not exploring) a construction site is educational and wholesome fun.
If you speak to any educator of children in this age range, parents, or EMS providers, you will likely hear about many minor injuries, ranging from scrapes and bruises to broken limbs and concussions. Thank G-d, all accidents have been minor, with no lasting repercussions. Are we waiting for a severe injury to change the status quo?
Thanks for listening, I look forward to your response!
AB
Response from Mayor Coles:
Hi,
I spoke with Mike Saccamano, the head of our inspection department about this. He tells me that state law prohibits us from forcing builders to install fencing around the building sites. We tried it years ago and had to stop. I do not fully agree with this & will discuss it with Senator Singer to see if there is some way we can increase safety around these sites.
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At least maintain proper sidewalks for wheelchairs and carriages
There are two very serious safety concerns at sites that can be fixed. Often ladders are left standing overnight where kids can climb them. There was at least one multi story building under construction that had an unsecured ladder standing over the whole Pesach. There are also many open utility trenches that kids may climb into. Trench collapses are the leading cause of construction fatalities.
If children were supervised there would be no problem. Teach the kids that’s not their property and it trespassing do not go on any construction site. If it’s not your, don’t touch. SIMPLE